Have you ever dreamed of finding the perfect beach getaway right here in the United States?
Well, I’ve got some exciting news for you!
Tripadvisor, the trusted travel platform, has just unveiled its latest rankings of the best beaches in the US and there’s a sunny surprise waiting for you on the West Coast.
It turns out that a California beach has clinched the top spot and has been named as the best beach in the entire United States!
Featuring pristine shores, captivating marine life and some truly breathtaking views, this beach is a must-see!
Join me as we explore what makes this California beach the best in the entire country, and discover why it’s a must-visit destination for beach lovers.
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Best Beach In The US
The beach which has been rated as the best beach in the US is…
Drum roll please…
La Jolla Cove!
In case you didn’t know, La Jolla Cove is a famous beach located in the La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego, along the southern coast of California.
It’s renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, including crystal-clear waters, rugged coastal cliffs and abundant marine life.
Visitors can enjoy watching seals and sea lions, go snorkeling, explore tide pools, take in stunning sunsets and even kayak along the picturesque coastline.
Now I’ll explain to you exactly why this beach is, by far, the best in the US.
Home to Seals & Sea Lions
One of the main reasons why La Jolla Cove stands out as the best beach in the US is the seals and sea lions which call this place home.
As you explore the cove, you’ll find these animals relaxing on the rocky shores, especially the sun-loving sea lions.
They’re not just sunbathers though, they are also excellent swimmers and you’ll be able to watch them diving deep into the water to catch their food.
The sea lions have visible ears, which is a distinct feature compared to seals, who hide their ears under their fur.
And here’s a fun fact: they make different noises to talk to each other. So when you visit La Jolla Cove, listen closely to hear them communicating.
Natural Beauty
The extraordinary natural beauty of La Jolla Cove is another reason why it’s considered the best beach in the US.
The moment you set foot here, you’ll be mesmerized by the breathtaking scenery.
The cove is a masterpiece of nature with its crystal-clear waters glistening under the California sun and rugged coastal cliffs that frame the horizon.
Snorkeling Paradise
La Jolla Cove offers incredible snorkeling opportunities that add to its charm as a top beach destination.
As you slip beneath the surface of the crystal clear waters, you’ll discover a world that is teeming with marine life.
The cove is home to colorful garibaldi fish, playful leopard sharks and a variety of other vibrant sea creatures.
One of my personal favorite things about La Jolla Cove is that you get the chance to observe the unique underwater kelp forests which sway gently in the currents.
It looks like something out of a fairytale!
Don’t forget to bring along some snorkeling gear or, alternatively, you can rent it from the nearby shops.
Also remember to be mindful of the marine environment and avoid touching or disturbing the creatures you encounter.
Hiking Trails
La Jolla Cove isn’t just about the beautiful beach though, it also boasts some fantastic hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline.
One of the most popular trails is the La Jolla Coast Walk, which takes you along the cliffs, providing panoramic vistas of the cove, sea lions basking on the rocks and the vast blue expanse of the ocean.
As you hike the trail, keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife that calls the area home including cormorants, pelicans and various seabirds.
The sight of the waves crashing against the rocky shore below is a constant reminder of the power and beauty of the ocean.
Swimming Cove
La Jolla Cove’s swimming cove is particularly fantastic for families and those looking for a calm and safe swimming experience.
The cove itself is sheltered by natural rock formations, which means you won’t encounter strong waves, making it perfect for less confident swimmers and kids.
As you take a dip, you’ll be able to explore all of La Jolla Cove’s marine wonders that lie just beneath the surface.
For the best experience, consider bringing along snorkeling gear to explore the underwater beauty up close.
It’s also a good idea to check the tide times as swimming during high tide can be easier and more enjoyable.
Year-Round Destination
Another plus for La Jolla Cove is that it’s a year-round destination with comfortable weather that makes it the perfect place to visit no matter the season.
With average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C) during the winter and 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) in the summer, you’ll find ideal weather throughout the year.
Unlike some other popular beaches in the US, which can become too cold during the winter or scorching hot in the summer, La Jolla Cove maintains a moderate and inviting climate all year round.
This means you can enjoy the stunning scenery, snorkeling, hiking and all the other attractions this beautiful beach has to offer any time you choose to visit.
Scenic Sunsets
The sunsets at La Jolla Cove are nothing short of magical.
As the sun begins to set over the Pacific Ocean, you’ll be able to watch as the sky is painted in hues of orange, pink and gold, casting a warm glow over the entire cove.
The best spot to catch these breathtaking sunsets is along the cliffs near Ellen Browning Scripps Park.
Here, you can sit on the grassy slopes or benches and witness the sun sinking below the horizon.
An insider tip: arrive a bit early to grab a good spot as it can get busy around sunset!
Local Amenities
La Jolla Cove also offers a range of convenient amenities that will make your beach experience even more enjoyable.
You’ll find clean restrooms and shower facilities nearby meaning it’s super easy to freshen up after a swim.
There are also grassy picnic areas which are perfect for enjoying a meal with an ocean view, as well as well-maintained benches and sitting areas to relax.
For those looking to explore the cove and tide pools, you can even rent snorkeling and diving gear from nearby shops.
Plus there are numerous cafes and restaurants in the area where you can grab something to eat or drink.
And that’s it!
La Jolla Cove truly has proven that it deserves the title of “The Best Beach in the US.”
With its remarkable natural beauty, captivating marine life, breathtaking sunsets and scenic hiking trails, it’s easy to see why Tripadvisor ranked it so highly!
So next time you’re planning a California beach getaway, make sure to put La Jolla Cove at the top of your list.
