The Most Popular Coast: A Ranking of Coastal Destinations
Voting rules: Choose the coast you think is the most popular!
Updated on Sep 19, 2023 08:15
Welcome to StrawPoll, where your opinions matter! We are excited to present our latest ranking, "What is the most popular coast?", where you get to vote for your favorite coastal destination or suggest an undiscovered gem. From sun-kissed beaches to rugged cliffs, serene shores to bustling boardwalks, we've got it all – and we're inviting you to dive in and make your voice heard. Thousands of polls on countless topics await your valuable input, so let's set sail on this fascinating journey to uncover the world's most beloved coastlines. Cast your vote now and explore the wave of possibilities!
What Is the Most Popular Coast? (September 2023)
-
157votes
Robert Schwemmer, NOAA, NOS, CINMS. · Public domainThe California coast is known for its stunning beaches and surfing spots, as well as its scenic drives and hikes. It also includes popular destinations such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego.DescriptionThe California Coast is a picturesque stretch of coastline located on the western edge of the United States. It extends approximately 840 miles (1,350 km) from north to south along the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and diverse natural landscapes. The California Coast is renowned for its idyllic weather, iconic coastal cities, and numerous points of interest.- Length: Approximately 840 miles (1,350 km)
- Location: Western edge of the United States along the Pacific Ocean
- Climate: Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers
- Coastal Cities: Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Monterey, and more
- Natural Features: Big Sur, Point Reyes National Seashore, Channel Islands National Park, Redwood National and State Parks
-
230votes
Florida Coast
Natural geographic formationsThe Florida coast is famous for its warm weather, white sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife. It includes popular destinations such as Miami, Key West, and Daytona Beach.DescriptionThe Florida Coast is a coastline along the eastern part of the U.S. state of Florida, facing the Atlantic Ocean. It stretches for about 1,350 miles (2,170 km) and is famous for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and diverse tropical wildlife.- Length: Approximately 1,350 miles (2,170 km)
- States: Florida
- Ocean: Atlantic Ocean
- Beaches: Numerous stunning and sandy beaches
- Weather: Warm and tropical climate
-
323votesThe Hawaii coast is renowned for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural scenery. It includes popular destinations such as Waikiki Beach, Maui, and the Big Island.DescriptionThe Hawaii Coast is a renowned and picturesque coastline that stretches across the islands of Hawaii in the United States. It is famous for its stunning landscapes, pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. This coast offers visitors a diverse range of activities, including surfing, snorkeling, hiking, and exploring volcanic formations.
- Location: Hawaii, United States
- Length: Approximately 750 miles
- Islands: The Hawaii Coast spans across multiple islands, including the Big Island, Maui, Oahu, Kauai, and Molokai.
- Beaches: The coast features numerous beautiful beaches, such as Waikiki Beach, Kaanapali Beach, Waimea Bay, and Lanikai Beach.
- Volcanoes: The coastline is home to active and dormant volcanoes, including Kilauea, Mauna Loa, and Haleakala.
-
417votes
Oregon Coast
Natural geologic processesThe Oregon coast is known for its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque lighthouses. It includes popular destinations such as Cannon Beach, Newport, and Astoria.DescriptionThe Oregon Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline along the Pacific Ocean in the U.S. state of Oregon. It is known for its rugged beauty, dramatic landscapes, and picturesque scenery. With its sandy beaches, towering cliffs, and vibrant sunsets, the Oregon Coast offers a captivating and unforgettable experience for visitors.- Length: 363 miles (584 kilometers)
- Number of State Parks: 27
- Major Cities: Astoria, Cannon Beach, Lincoln City, Newport, Florence, Coos Bay
- Lighthouses: 11
- Sea Stacks: Several prominent ones including Haystack Rock and Face Rock
Oregon Coast in other rankings- Position 8 of 10 in Most beautiful place in Oregon
-
517votes
Winslow Homer · Public domainThe Maine coast is famous for its historic lighthouses, quaint fishing villages, and fresh lobster. It includes popular destinations such as Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, and Portland.DescriptionThe Maine Coast refers to the coastal region of the U.S. state of Maine. It is known for its rugged beauty, picturesque harbors, rocky shores, sandy beaches, and charming coastal towns. The Maine Coast stretches over 3,500 miles and offers breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and a rich maritime heritage.- Harbors: Numerous and charming
- Location: Maine, United States
- Length: 3,500 miles
- Scenic Beauty: Rugged and picturesque
- Shoreline: Rocky and sandy
-
67votesThe North Carolina coast is known for its beautiful beaches, fishing villages, and historic lighthouses. It includes popular destinations such as the Outer Banks, Wilmington, and Cape Hatteras.DescriptionThe North Carolina Coast refers to the coastal region of the state of North Carolina, encompassing a stretch of approximately 300 miles (480 kilometers) along the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its beautiful beaches, diverse ecosystems, charming coastal communities, and rich cultural heritage.
- Location: North Carolina, United States
- Length: Approximately 300 miles (480 kilometers)
- Beach Variety: Sandy beaches, barrier islands, and pristine dunes
- Outer Banks: Famous barrier islands known for their natural beauty and historic sites
- Cape Hatteras: Home to one of the tallest lighthouses in the United States
-
76votesThe South Carolina coast is famous for its charming towns, golf courses, and historic landmarks. It includes popular destinations such as Hilton Head Island, Myrtle Beach, and Charleston.DescriptionThe South Carolina Coast is a scenic and popular coastal region located along the southeastern coast of the United States. It stretches approximately 187 miles (301 km) along the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its beautiful beaches, charming seaside towns, and rich history. The region encompasses various iconic destinations, including Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, and Charleston.
- Beach Length: Approximately 187 miles (301 km)
- Prominent Destinations: Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, Charleston, etc.
- Seaside Towns: Multiple charming towns along the coast
- Natural Beauty: Stunning beaches and coastal landscapes
- Outdoor Activities: Swimming, surfing, fishing, boating, etc.
-
83votesThe New Jersey coast is known for its boardwalks, amusement parks, and pristine beaches. It includes popular destinations such as Atlantic City, Cape May, and Long Beach Island.DescriptionThe New Jersey Coast is a stretch of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean in the state of New Jersey, United States. It offers a diverse range of attractions and activities, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
- Beaches: Over 130 miles of sandy beaches
- Boardwalks: Numerous boardwalks with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options
- Atlantic City: Famous resort city known for its casinos, nightlife, and iconic Boardwalk
- Cape May: Historic Victorian town with charming shops, inns, and Cape May Point State Park
- Wildlife: Rich ecosystem supporting a variety of bird species, marine life, and wildlife refuges
-
93votes
Washington Coast
Natural formationThe Washington coast is renowned for its wild beaches, rugged cliffs, and scenic drives. It includes popular destinations such as Olympic National Park, Long Beach, and the San Juan Islands.DescriptionThe Washington Coast is a stretch of coastline along the U.S. state of Washington. It spans approximately 157 miles (253 km) from the mouth of the Columbia River in the south to the Strait of Juan de Fuca in the north. The coast is known for its diverse ecosystems, stunning natural beauty, and plentiful recreational opportunities.- Length: 157 miles (253 km)
- Location: Washington, United States
- Ecosystems: Diverse
- Scenic beauty: Stunning
- Recreational opportunities: Abundant
-
106votesThe Virginia coast is famous for its historic landmarks, charming towns, and scenic beaches. It includes popular destinations such as Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, and the Chesapeake Bay.DescriptionThe Virginia Coast refers to a stretch of coastline along the state of Virginia, located on the east coast of the United States. It offers a diverse range of attractions, natural beauty, and historical significance, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
- Location: Virginia, United States
- Length: approx. 112 miles
- Beaches: Over 35 pristine beaches
- Wildlife: Rich biodiversity and home to various species of birds, dolphins, and marine life
- Historical significance: The area is steeped in American history, including the First Landing Site of English colonists
Missing your favorite coast?
Graphs
Discussion
Ranking factors for popular coast
-
Number of visitorsThe number of tourists and local visitors that a coast receives annually is a key factor in determining its popularity. This can be measured through visitor statistics, surveys, and accommodation bookings.
-
Beach qualityThe condition and cleanliness of the sand and water, availability of natural shade, and the presence of amenities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, and accessibility options for persons with disabilities can all impact a coast's popularity.
-
Scenery and natural beautyThe surrounding landscape, unique geological formations, flora and fauna, and overall visual appeal of a coast can greatly affect its popularity among visitors.
-
Recreational activitiesA wide variety of activities should be available for visitors, such as surfing, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife spotting. The more diverse the activities, the more popular the coast is likely to be.
-
SafetyThe coast should have a good safety record, both in terms of visitor safety and overall environmental health. This can include factors like water safety, lifeguard presence, and measures to protect the local ecosystem.
-
Climate and weatherFavorable weather conditions and a comfortable climate are important factors that contribute to a coast's popularity. Visitors typically prefer areas with warm temperatures, sunny weather, and minimal rainfall.
-
Accommodation and amenitiesThe availability of a range of accommodation options (from budget to luxury) and essential amenities like restrooms, restaurants, parking, and public transportation can impact the popularity of a coast.
-
Cultural and historical valueCoasts with a rich cultural or historical background, such as sites of historical significance, local customs, and traditions can also attract visitors.
-
AccessibilityThe ease with which a coast can be reached, either through direct flights, drive, or public transportation, can affect its popularity among travelers.
-
Reputation and word of mouthThe general public perception of a coast, as well as recommendations from travel agents, friends, and family can play a considerable role in contributing to its popularity. Online reviews and social media presence can also impact a coast's reputation.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular coast. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or your favorite coast is missing from the list, feel free to help us improve the ranking.
Statistics
- 1715 views
- 169 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each coast once every 24 hours. The rank of each coast is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular coast
When it comes to coastlines, there are plenty of options to choose from. From the rugged cliffs of the Pacific Northwest to the sandy beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, each coast has its own unique charm. But which one is the most popular among Americans? According to recent polls, the answer may surprise you. While the East Coast and West Coast have long been popular destinations, it turns out that the Gulf Coast is actually the most visited coast in the United States. With its warm waters, white sand beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, it's no wonder that travelers from all over the country flock to the Gulf Coast every year. So if you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation, consider heading south to experience the Gulf Coast for yourself.
Explore other rankings
Check out some of the other recommended rankings on StrawPoll and make your voice heard.
