Uncle Chester Us Beaches 20 Top -

Most people overlook Alabama’s coastline, but Gulf Shores offers soft sand, gentle waves, and the legendary Hangout Fest music event. The public beach is well-maintained with a fishing pier and a pavilion. Uncle Chester’s insider tip: drive 10 minutes west to Fort Morgan for a quieter, more historic beach experience with fewer umbrellas. Uncle Chester says: “Spring break chaos, but also sea turtle heaven.”

Forget Jersey Shore stereotypes. Cape May is a Victorian seaside town with bed-and-breakfasts, a historic lighthouse, and a beach that’s clean, wide, and family-focused. The water is warmer than most of the Northeast, and the beach tags (small fee) keep it less crowded. Uncle Chester loves taking the Cape May–Lewes Ferry just for the view. Uncle Chester says: “My personal number one. Don’t tell Cape Hatteras.”

Now get out there. And tell Uncle Chester I said hello. Did we miss your favorite beach? Share your own Uncle Chester–style recommendation in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more road trip guides from the family’s most opinionated uncle. uncle chester us beaches 20 top

If you’re nervous about Hawaiian waves, Poipu on the south shore is protected by an offshore reef, creating a natural wading pool perfect for kids and beginners. Hawaiian monk seals often haul out on the sand (stay back 50 feet). Uncle Chester says the sunsets here are life-changing, and the nearby Spouting Horn blowhole adds free entertainment. Uncle Chester says: “Yes, New Jersey. But the historic, classy part.”

Clearwater’s sand is white, the water is bathwater-warm, and Pier 60 hosts a nightly sunset festival with street performers and artisans. It’s busy – really busy – but Uncle Chester admits that the facilities are top-notch: showers, lifeguards, ramps for wheelchairs, and plenty of food options. Go on a weekday in September for the best experience. Uncle Chester says: “Destin has the emerald water; Henderson has the peace.” Most people overlook Alabama’s coastline, but Gulf Shores

You’ve seen The Goonies , right? That’s Cannon Beach. The iconic Haystack Rock rises 235 feet from the surf, surrounded by tide pools full of starfish and anemones. The beach is huge, windswept, and dramatic. Uncle Chester advises: the water is freezing year-round (55°F max). This is a walk-and-gawk beach, not a swim beach. Also, bring a sweater even in August. Uncle Chester says: “Purple sand. You read that right.”

Forget high-rises and crowded cabanas. Cape Hatteras is raw, wild, and historic. This is where the Labrador Current meets the Gulf Stream, creating legendary surf and some of the best fishing on the East Coast. Climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (the tallest brick lighthouse in the US) for a view of endless sand. Uncle Chester warns: the rip currents are strong, so swim near a lifeguard. But for solitude and stargazing? Unbeatable. Uncle Chester says: “Powdered sugar feels like gravel compared to this.” Uncle Chester says: “Spring break chaos, but also

Rialto is where the Pacific Northwest shows off its gothic beauty. Black sand, massive driftwood logs (some the size of cars), and jagged sea stacks called “Hole-in-the-Wall.” The water is too cold to swim, but the hiking is spectacular. Uncle Chester warns: watch the tides closely – people get trapped on the headland. Check the chart before you go. 15. Sleeping Bear Dunes – Michigan (Lake Michigan) Uncle Chester says: “The most beautiful freshwater beach in the world.”