From the icy waters of Alaska to the sun-kissed beaches of Florida, America's coastline is a treasure trove of natural beauty and diversity. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the United States boasts over 95,000 miles of coastline and shoreline, stretching across the Atlantic, Arctic, and Pacific Oceans, as well as the Gulf of Mexico and the Great Lakes. With 23 states bordering oceans and 7 along lakeshores, there's something for everyone – whether you're a sunseeker, a wildlife enthusiast, or an adventure lover. In this travel guide, we'll explore the top 5 states with the longest coastlines, highlighting their unique features and attractions. Let's dive in!
U.S. coastal gems: how many of these stunning shorelines have you explored?
Alaska
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Total coastline length: 33,904 miles
Alaska is not only the largest state in the United States by area but also the one with the longest coastline. Divided between the Pacific Ocean (31,383 miles) and the Arctic Ocean (2,521 miles), Alaska's coastline is a vital part of the state's history, culture, and economy.
The coastal region is a dramatic mix of fjords, glaciers, coastal mountains, and temperate rainforests. It's home to 11 national parks, preserves, and monuments, including Glacier Bay National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park – the largest national park in the country. These parks offer endless opportunities for hiking, boating, and wildlife watching. In Anchorage, the state's largest city, the Alaska Native Heritage Center provides a glimpse into the rich heritage of Alaska's native groups.
Florida
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Total coastline length: 8,436 miles
Florida's coastline is synonymous with sun, sand, and surf. No matter where you are in the state, you're never more than 60 miles from the beach. The coastline is divided between the Atlantic Ocean (3,341 miles) and the Gulf of Mexico (5,095 miles), offering a diverse range of experiences.
On the Atlantic side, cities like Daytona Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami are popular destinations for their vibrant beach scenes and nightlife. The Gulf Coast, on the other hand, is home to cities like Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota, known for their calm waters and stunning sunsets. Everglades National Park, located along Florida's southern coast, is a unique ecosystem of mangroves and wetlands that provide a habitat for alligators, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Farther south, the Florida Keys offer a tropical paradise with opportunities for boating, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
Louisiana
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Total coastline length: 7,721 miles
Louisiana's coastline, weaving along the Gulf of Mexico between Mississippi and Texas, is a unique and ecologically rich environment. It's characterized by barrier islands, bayous, marshes, and swamps, which are among the most fragile and important wetlands in the United States. These wetlands not only support the state's thriving seafood industry but also provide opportunities for agriculture and recreation.
For beach lovers, Grand Isle is a must-visit destination, while the Chandeleur Islands offer some of the best fishing in the state. Accessible only by boat, the Chandeleur Islands are also home to the Breton National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Louisiana's coastline is a testament to the state's rich cultural and natural heritage.
Maine
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Total coastline length: 3,478 miles
Maine's coastline is a picturesque blend of rugged beauty and quaint charm. Known for its historic lighthouses and fresh lobster, this New England state offers a postcard-perfect setting for travelers. From Cape Elizabeth to Rockland, the coastline is dotted with bays, coves, fjords, islands, and peninsulas teeming with wildlife, including eagles, puffins, seals, and whales.
A road trip along Route 1 is the perfect way to explore Maine's coastal treasures. Along the way, you'll encounter charming towns like Kittery and York, hike through the stunning Acadia National Park, and visit historic lighthouses. Don't miss the annual Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland, a 5-day celebration of arts, music, and seafood that takes place every August.
California
Source: Maarten van den Heuvel/Unsplash
Total coastline length: 3,427 miles
California's coastline is a masterpiece of natural beauty, stretching from Crescent City in the north to the Mexican border. Designated as a protected national monument, this coastline is home to approximately 68.5% of the state's population, with major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco located along its shores.
The landscape is incredibly diverse, featuring towering coastal cliffs, deep canyons, rolling pastoral lands, and ancient redwood forests. Popular destinations include the Redwood National and State Parks, the breathtaking cliffs of Big Sur, and iconic surf towns like Huntington Beach and Santa Cruz. Whether you're hiking through misty mountains or catching waves in the Pacific, California's coastline offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
North Carolina
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Total coastline length: 3,375 miles
North Carolina's coastline is a captivating blend of barrier islands, estuaries, maritime forests, and pristine sandy beaches. One of its most iconic features is the Outer Banks, a chain of barrier islands boasting over 100 miles of open shoreline dotted with charming seaside villages. This region is steeped in history, home to landmarks like the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and the Wright Brothers National Memorial, where the first successful airplane flight took place in 1903.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a must-visit destination. Established in 1937 as the nation's first national seashore, it offers a mix of wild beaches, camping opportunities, water sports, and wildlife viewing. Another highlight is the Pamlico-Albemarle Sound, the largest estuary entirely within one state. Spanning 2.3 million acres, this vital estuarine habitat supports a diverse array of fish and shellfish, making it a paradise for anglers and nature lovers alike. Whether you're exploring historic sites or immersing yourself in nature, North Carolina's coastline promises an unforgettable experience.
Texas
Source: Tomek Baginski/Unsplash
Total coastline length: 3,359 miles
Stretching along the Gulf of Mexico between Louisiana and northeastern Mexico, Texas's coastline is a treasure trove of recreational and cultural activities. The region is home to 6 offshore islands and numerous charming towns, each offering its own unique appeal. South Padre Island, known for its tropical vibe, is a hotspot for water sports, luxurious SPAs, and a vibrant food scene.
Galveston Island, on the other hand, is a cultural gem with its distinctive architecture and opportunities for dolphin and whale-watching tours. For nature enthusiasts, the Matagorda Island Wildlife Management Area is a haven of bays, coves, and marshes that serve as a natural breeding ground for fish and shellfish. This area is also a sanctuary for diverse bird species, including peregrine falcons, Southern bald eagles, and whooping cranes. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a deep connection with nature, Texas's Gulf Coast has something for everyone.
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Conclusion
America's coastlines are a testament to the country's natural diversity and splendor, offering something for every traveler. From the icy fjords of Alaska to the sun-drenched beaches of Florida, the rugged charm of Maine, the vibrant wetlands of Louisiana, and the iconic shores of California, each state presents a unique coastal experience. Whether you're drawn to the Outer Banks of North Carolina, the tropical allure of Texas's Gulf Coast, or the historic landmarks scattered along these shores, the possibilities for exploration are endless. These coastlines are not just destinations but gateways to adventure, relaxation, and discovery. So pack your bags, set your sights on the horizon, and embark on a journey to uncover the breathtaking beauty of America's shorelines – your next unforgettable experience awaits!
