12 US Beaches That Will Calm Your Mind

Has anyone ever been able to pinpoint why, exactly, a day at the sea is so soothing to the soul? If we close our eyes right now and imagine the sound of the waves tickling the shoreline – and our toes – while our heads are tilted back toward the sun, we can almost feel it, right? 

Let’s skip over the excitement of hotspots like Miami Beach and The Hamptons to seek out some quiet, soothing stretches of sand. When the tide comes in at these serene locales, it will wash away with every single care on our shoulders. 

Sunset Beach, Florida

Finding Sunset Beach is like going on a treasure hunt. Everyone knows Tampa. Then, there’s its neighbor, St. Petersburg, which brings us to St. Pete Beach. Treasure Island is another well-known spot in the area. 

Hiding at the end of Treasure Island, there’s a gorgeous expanse of land known as Sunset Beach that delivers, you guessed it, the most sublime sunsets this side of paradise. See if you can find her the next time you’re in the area. The peace that comes over you during a sunset on this beach is unsurpassed by anything else. 

Ormond Beach, Florida

Those who need speed unite at Daytona throughout the year. However, just a few miles north, you’ll find a tranquil stretch of sand known as Ormond Beach. 

You wouldn’t even know there was such a party going on eight miles to the south. The best way to enjoy this lovely expanse along the Atlantic is to book a few nights at Hilton’s Home2 Suites. Every room has an ocean view and is equipped with a tidy little kitchen, making this a peaceful, easy stay. 

Amelia Island, Florida

At the tip of Florida, right before it gives way to Georgia, you’ll find Fernandina Beach, located on Amelia Island. The likes of Kenny Chesney have boasted about its glory, and that’s quite a testament since he can vacation anywhere in the world. 

If you can swing it, the Omni Amelia Island Resort is the place to stay. With oceanfront rooms, delectable on-site restaurants, and easy access to the beach, you couldn’t ask for more – except you can. Their onsite spa is consistently awarded as one of the best in the nation. So, go ahead – treat yourself! 

For more on that, here are 30 of the best weekend spa getaways across the U.S., including the Omni. 

Tybee Island, Georgia

Further up the East Coast, we have the splendors of Tybee Island – about 30 minutes away from enchanting Savannah. Things can get a little crowded here on a weekend in the summer. But, if you can make your way to the easternmost tip of the island and park in the Chatham Avenue Parking Lot, you’ll find the waves – and the sounds – are a little bit milder. 

This is the kind of beach retreat that’s just as lovely in the fall because, again, you can dip into Savannah throughout your stay. You might not be able to dive with the dolphins, but you can stroll the sandy shorelines with a nice sweater on for a peaceful reprieve.