Best beaches by activity

Swell rates every US beach 0–5 for 16 activities — from swimming and surfing to fishing and family days — using the same live marine and weather data behind the 0–100 Beach Score. Pick an activity to see what makes a good day and find the best beaches for it right now.

All 16 activities

• Best beaches for swimming — Warm water, gentle surf, full sun.
• Best beaches for surfing — Clean swell and the right wind.
• Best beaches for paddleboard — Glassy water and calm air.
• Best beaches for kayaking — Calm seas, manageable wind.
• Best beaches for windsurfing — Steady wind is the whole point.
• Best beaches for underwater — Clear, calm, low-swell water.
• Best beaches for fishing — The right tide and steady conditions.
• Best beaches for sailing — A reliable breeze and open water.
• Best beaches for parasailing — Light wind and calm water.
• Best beaches for boogie board — Punchy shorebreak, not a washout.
• Best beaches for family day — Calm, warm, and easy all around.
• Best beaches for tanning — Sun, warmth, and little wind.
• Best beaches for picnic — Mild, dry, and not too windy.
• Best beaches for bonfire — Calm evenings, dry and clear.
• Best beaches for running — Cool, firm, and comfortable.
• Best beaches for beach sports — Dry, mild, low-wind days.