Top Ten Beaches in the United States

Admit it: You're beach crazy. We can't blame you. In fact, with sandy stretches on two coasts, the Gulf of Mexico, the Great Lakes, and around countless bodies of water throughout the country, most of America has the same affliction.

No one gets more hyped up about these inviting expanses of gold and white crystals than adventurers—and with good reason. America's public beaches serve up some of the nation's best hiking and biking, and some of the world's best swimming and kayaking. They attract amazing wildlife. They gather themselves into huge dune playgrounds. They make the perfect seat in nature's amphitheater.

Think a beach getaway is all about big towels and sun lotion? Then read on for a review of the nation's best spots to play, relax, snooze, swim, and take in some of the prettiest sunsets you'll ever see—all where sand meets sea.