Perhaps you already have a favorite beach — one where already you know how to nab a free parking space, where the best shady spot is and when the soft-serve truck makes its rounds.
If you’re looking to mix it up this July 4, or throughout the summer, here are six beach destinations around the United States to inspire a new adventure.
Keep in mind that AAA projects that this Independence Day holiday period will be a record breaker. Nearly 71 million people are expected to travel 50 or more miles from home between June 29 and July 7, including more than 60 million on the roads — so be safe and leave plenty of time for the drive.
Which U.S. beach do you think is unbeatable? Let us know in the comments (or protect your secret — we get it).
The next time you’re sitting in traffic, inching toward the Hamptons, Cape Cod or another congested beach hot spot, consider the virtues of South County, R.I. (known officially as Washington County). This gem of the Ocean State, with 100 miles of coastline, is two and a half hours from Manhattan and one and a half hours from Boston, and it requires no planes or ferries. Between the coastal communities of Watch Hill and Charlestown, 14 public beaches beckon.
