The 5 Best Beaches for the 4th of July

Red, white, and blue or sun, sand, and sea? Why not have both! This year, blend relaxation and celebration with a trip to one of America’s best beaches for the 4th of July. These coastal gems offer everything from daytime parades to spectacular fireworks displays, all with a seaside twist!

Whether you’re looking for a lively beach party or a peaceful oceanfront retreat, these destinations will make sure that your Independence Day is truly unforgettable.

• Clearwater Beach, FL

  Red sunsets. White sands. Crystal-blue water. Clearwater Beach redefines red, white, and blue!

  Located on Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast, this beach is famous worldwide for its consistent inclusion on almost every list of “best beaches.” It’s an ideal spot for swimming, water sports, and early-morning shelling.

  The city’s 4th of July celebration, known as “Clearwater Celebrates America,” features patriotic boat parades, beach games, and concerts. The day-long celebration ends with a stunning fireworks show over the water, live music, and entertainment from the city’s top-notch street performers.

• Myrtle Beach, SC

  Celebrating the 4th with the little ones? Then you’ll definitely want to head over to this family vacay hot spot.

  Myrtle Beach is one of America’s most quintessential beach towns, with over 60 miles of sandy shores, a bustling boardwalk, and attractions such as amusement parks and water parks.

  On the 4th of July, you can take your pick of special events, including boat parades and patriotic-themed shows: fun and festive for all ages. At night, Myrtle Beach hosts spectacular fireworks displays in several locations. Choose a spot along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk or Broadway at the Beach for the best views!

  Pro Tip: Bring your clubs! Myrtle Beach is known for its golf courses almost as much as its beach.

• Santa Monica Beach, CA

  Soak in that laid-back Cali vibe at one of SoCal’s best beaches for the 4th of July.

  Santa Monica, a coastal town located just west of L.A., is known for its instantly recognizable pier, featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and delish dining options. Make sure you take a spin on its iconic Ferris wheel, with its mesmerizing views of the Pacific Ocean.

  On the 4th of July, the party begins on the beach itself, with beach volleyball tournaments, family-friendly games, and local food vendors offering holiday specials. Stay until nightfall, and enjoy the fantastic fireworks and live music to round out your SoCal beach day.

• Virginia Beach, VA

  Is there a better place to celebrate independence than one of the original 13 colonies? Especially if that colony has one of the best beaches for the 4th of July? We didn’t think so, either!

  Virginia Beach is a family-friendly coastal destination that’s perfect for beachfront activities. Water sports, strolling on the boardwalk, or just being lazy—we won’t judge!

  On the 4th, check out kid-friendly activities such as sandcastle contests, crafts, and food trucks with holiday treats. But the real excitement comes at night, with their “Stars & Stripes Explosion.” Get ready for an evening filled with fireworks, live concerts, and military bands performing patriotic music.

• Waikiki Beach, HI

  Aloha, 4th of July! Get ready for a tropical celebration…

  Gorgeous Waikiki Beach, with its beautiful views of Diamond Head, miles of golden sand, and crystal-clear blue water, is an amazing beach any time of the year. While you’re there, try your hand at surfing—Waikiki is famous for its beginner-friendly surf breaks!

  Water sports aside, Waikiki is a truly unique 4th of July experience, with special events such as hula performances and outrigger canoe races throughout the day. As the sun sets, the beach fills with festivities and celebrations, ending in fireworks that light up the sky over the Pacific Ocean.

Ready for the pyrotechnics? Pack up your red, white, and blue gear and enjoy the festivities, and fireworks at one of these hands-down best beaches for the 4th of July.

And be sure to make the most of your getaway by shipping your stuff to your hotel or Airbnb with LugLess. No suitcases, no baggage claim, and most importantly, no hassles! Just you, your star-shaped sunglasses, and a fantastic 4th!