Top Ten Beaches in the United States

Sugar-white sands, clean water, and great body surfing: The beach on Perdido Key is a prime spot for jumping in and getting wet. While not exactly a secret from condo developers, this super swimming hole is still a get-out-the-magnifying-glass dot on the map. A 247-acre barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico's Florida-Alabama border, Perdido Key offers wide, white, sandy beaches, rolling sand dunes covered with sea oats, and camera-worthy wildlife like the osprey, dolphin, and loggerhead turtle.

How great is this beach? Its sands are some of the softest in the country. Its placid Gulf waters offer a safe place for families to swim and play. Fishermen can surf cast for redfish, pompano, and flounder. And the state park itself offers simple, uncrowded facilities, including showers, bathrooms, and picnic areas. Admission to the park is $3 per vehicle.

Tip: Don't forget your mask and fins, or at least be sure to rent them—the snorkeling is awesome.