Most Underrated Beach Destination in the U.S.

A new report from BoatBooker highlights South Carolina as America’s hidden beach capital, with Vereen Memorial Park topping the list of under-the-radar coastal gems

The summer sun is in full effect and you may be thinking about hitting the beach, but honestly so is everyone else. Luckily there are still plenty of beaches that fly under the radar, and thanks to a new report from boat tour company BoatBooker, we know exactly where they are. 

South Carolina’s Vereen Memorial Park was named the top hidden gem by the boating site, which analyzed Google Maps data for key terms like “secluded beaches,” “hidden beaches,” and “quiet beaches,” zeroing in on locations with fewer than 100 reviews. Each beach was then ranked using a combined score based on its average rating and number of reviews.

“America’s coast offers unparalleled diversity beyond the tourist beach resorts,” Vukan Simic, the founder of BoatBooker, shared. “America’s off-the-beaten-path coastline offers the authentic American beach experience, the one that travelers are seeking—unspoiled waters, stunning scenery, and the freedom to truly get close to the natural wonders of our country.”

When it comes to Vereen Memorial Park, which sits just north of Myrtle Beach, the 115-acre park “offers a serene escape into nature and a journey through history” and is “ideal for families, pet owners, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure, tranquility, or both,” according to Visit Myrtle Beach. The park also comes with the bonus of no admission fee. 

Beyond Vereen Memorial Park, South Carolina emerged as “America’s hidden beach capital,” according to BoatBooker, with five locations in the top 10 located in the Palmetto State. That includes Driftwood Beach at No. 2, Morris Island at No. 4, Station 22 at No. 9, and Edisto Beach State Park Campground at No. 10.

California also earned high praise with nine spots on the list, including its highest-ranking beach, Torrey Pines City Beach in San Diego, at No. 5. Other top spots in California included Dana Strands Beach at No. 7 and Pirates Cove Beach at No. 8 to round out the top 10.

The site also noted state and national parks dominated the rankings, with protected areas offering the most “pristine and uncrowded beach experiences across America.” 

Check out the complete top 20 list from BoatBooker below.

1. Vereen Memorial Park: South Carolina
2. Driftwood Beach: South Carolina
3. Gunnison Beach: New Jersey
4. Morris Island: South Carolina
5. Torrey Pines City Beach: California
6. Caswell Beach: North Carolina
7. Dana Strands Beach: California
8. Pirates Cove Beach: California
9. Station 22 – Public Beach Access: South Carolina
10. Edisto Beach State Park Campground: South Carolina
11. Ocean Isle Beach: North Carolina
12. Salt Creek Beach: California
13. Gulf Shores Beach: Alabama
14. Beach Access #4 – Beach Circle: Texas
15. Cape Hatteras National Seashore: North Carolina
16. Kirby Beach: California
17. Funston Beach: California
18. Carolina Beach: North Carolina
19. Santa Ana River County Beach River Jetties: California
20. Coquina Beach: North Carolina
21. Little Corona Beach: California
22. Crissy Field South Beach: California