People are flocking to the shore in ever-increasing number for sun and fun. But most want much more from a beach experience - people are searching for real getaway places where they can escape from urban confinement and everyday pressures. A beach rating survey was designed to provide an objective appraisal of America's major public recreational beaches along the Atlantic, Gulf and Pacific coasts. About 650 beaches were evaluated nationwide on the basis of 50 questions with a sliding scale to quantify the elusive quality factor. In-state coastal experts were queried for their overall input and evaluation. Only oceanic beaches were rated. America's most famous beaches were rarely the best ones for overall quality. Perhaps not surprising, Hawaii and Florida have the very best beaches in the United States. This book evaluates beaches by region: Northeast, Southeast, Gulf, Southwest, Northwest and Hawaii. Each region offers a different venue and recreational advantage. While swimming is the favourite activity of most beachgoers, many people just enjoy walking along beaches for the exercise or to enjoy the scenery.
Purists prefer wilderness beaches, but many vacationers are looking for creature comforts; the top city beaches offer all the amenities. The seven categories are best swimming, walking, wilderness, sports, city, novelty and surfing beaches. The best overall beach is also selected for each region.