Who knew an old, weathered Coast Guard Station would birth the number 7 beach on Dr. Beach’s list of the top 10 beaches in America for 2010. Yet it did and with good reason. Easy to get to, which means it can get crowded, Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod is one of those places where two forces of nature meet. You have what looks to be an old glacial cliff and the remaining sand as it fingers its way around to form a beach area.

The western shore of Maui is known for its idyllic, year-round beach weather, and Fleming’s mile-long crescent, white sand beach offers a range of activities and stunning views of nearby Molokai Island. A favorite area for sunbathers, swimmers, and surfers alike, the beach is backed by a virtual forest of trees on the low sea cliff, providing welcome shade. Surrounded by 120 miles of coastline and over 30 miles of colorful beaches, you’d be hard-pressed not to find a beach in Maui that suits you. Locals and tourists alike flock to the beaches with white, black or red sand. Families also like the location- it’s on the west side of Maui and is backed by a forest of trees which provide abundant shade. And the view is just out of this world. If you take a book and a beach chair, look up occasionally; a humpback may be passing by.