Blue for miles
Can you guess which states have the longest coastlines? Yes, Alaska's one
Image: Nick Perez
Probably all of us know that Alaska is the state with the longest coastline —featuring a whopping 33,904 miles of water sights , including tidal inlets. But can you name the state with the second-longest coastline, or the third? Let’s explore the 13 states with the longest coastlines and their highlights—you might just decide on a future vacation there!
1
Hawaii (1,052 miles)
Image: Karsten Winegeart
Over 1,052 miles of volcanic islands, a unique blend of black sand beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs await.
Snorkel with sea turtles in Hanauma Bay on Oahu, or learn to surf on the legendary waves of Waikiki Beach. You could also visit the dramatic cliffs of Kauai, featured in film sagas like Jurassic Park and Pirates of the Caribbean.
2
Oregon (1,410 miles)
Image: Dave Hoefler
You might remember seeing Haystack Rock featured in the film The Goonies , or glimpses of the charming town of Astoria , where the classic Free Willy was filmed.
These are just two of the many jewels of Oregon's Pacific coastline. Dramatic sea stacks, hidden coves, and beautiful towns like Cannon Beach also await.
3
New York (2,625 miles)
Image: Tommy Kwak
New York's coastline offers a mix of bustling beaches, charming towns, and iconic landmarks. There’s the famous Coney Island boardwalk , as well as the historic lighthouses and sandy shores of Long Island.
If you’ve seen the romantic drama Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind , surely you’ve felt curious about visiting the remote, nostalgic beaches of Montauk.
4
Washington (3,026 miles)
Image: Jennifer Arlem Molina
Rugged beaches, dramatic cliffs, and waterfront cities line the 3,026 miles of Washington's coastline. You can visit Pike Place Market in Seattle, or take a ferry to the Olympic Peninsula to hike through rainforests and explore tide pools.
The Washington State Ferries system can also take you to the San Juan Islands archipelago, famous for its forest waterfalls and whale-watching tours.
5
Virginia (3,315 miles)
Image: Steve Adams
Virginia ranks among the 10 states with the longest coastlines. Its sandy beaches and wide shores are also home to many historical landmarks .
You can explore Colonial Williamsburg, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, as well as Mount Vernon by the Potomac River.
6
Texas (3,359 miles)
Image: Thomas Park
On Texas's Gulf Coast, you'll find Padre Island, the longest barrier island in the world , with pristine beaches and a haven for wildlife. There’s also Galveston Island, which blends history and entertainment with its Victorian architecture, museums, and family-friendly attractions like Moody Gardens.
7
North Carolina (3,375 miles)
Image: Joe Dudeck
The iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is just one of the stunning views along North Carolina's Outer Banks. This state is famous for its Outer Banks , a chain of barrier islands with windswept beaches.
A notable attraction is the shipwreck-littered Graveyard of the Atlantic, a stretch of treacherous waters that fascinates many and features its own museum. And we can’t forget the historic Kitty Hawk, where the Wright brothers made their first flight.
8
Michigan (3,288 miles)
Image: John Schaidler
With over 3,000 miles of Great Lakes coastline, Michigan offers some of the most diverse shoreline experiences in the US.
You can explore the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore along Lake Michigan, or step back in time on Mackinac Island, known for its Victorian charm and car-free roads . Another gem is the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior, with its dramatic cliffs.
9
Maine (3,478 miles)
Image: Rachel C
Maine's rugged coastline is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring cliffs, picturesque fishing villages, and abundant wildlife.
If you love animals in their natural habitat, you can visit seals and puffins in Bar Harbour. If you like hiking to stunning views, you can visit Acadia National Park and make it to the top of Cadillac Mountain .
10
California (3,427 miles)
Image: Meriç Dağlı
The Golden Coast must be included, of course! California's iconic coastline is a dream for beach lovers. Surfers can catch waves in Huntington Beach, a.k.a. "Surf City USA."
Other must-see spots include the Golden Gate Recreation Area, San Diego’s La Jolla, and, of course, Santa Monica’s colorful and bustling pier and boardwalk .
11
Louisiana (7,721 miles)
Image: Brent Woods
Louisiana's bayous and wetlands make its coastline unique. The Mississippi River Delta is an ecological treasure, home to abundant birdlife and fisheries, while the Atchafalaya Basin boasts the largest wetland and swamp in the US.
Of course, New Orleans is the cultural heart of this state, where jazz, gumbo, and beignets summon tourists from all over the world.
12
Florida (8,436 miles)
Image: Lance Asper
Florida! Sun-kissed beaches year-round and magnetic turquoise waters make this state’s coastline one of the most visited in the country.
The Florida Keys offer coral reefs perfect for diving, especially in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. One should explore Miami Beach’s Art Deco District, the Everglades that spill into Florida Bay, and of course, the dreamy sights along Key West.
13
Alaska (33,904 miles)
Image: jesse orrico
Finally, with over 33,904 miles of coastline, there’s Alaska—a treasure trove of natural wonders like the ice formations of Glacier Bay National Park and the playful otters of Kenai Fjords National Park.
In Juneau, the state capital, you can witness humpback whales breaching in Auke Bay. So, if you don’t mind the cold or the long journey, you might want to visit and experience the breathtaking scenery!
