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It’s that time of year again: the days are getting longer, you can smell spring in the air and all your colleagues are talking about their spring break travel plans.
Whether you’re planning a spring break or just want to take advantage of the upcoming shoulder season, chances are the same destinations will come up when you brainstorm about where to go.
Cancun, Myrtle Beach, Miami: These classic favorites are popular for a reason, but they’ll also come with higher prices and bigger crowds.
If you’re itching to escape to the ocean and enjoy the beach this spring, but you’re not a fan of crowded places, fear not.
Vacation rental marketplace Home2Go has just released its annual report Beach index.
Based on search data, this index was created by prioritizing the destinations with the best weather, the fewest Google searches for “spring travel” (hello, less crowds), and affordable accommodation prices.
We present you the five most underrated beach destinations in the US:
Sombrero Beach, Marathon, Florida
While Florida may be one of the most popular vacation destinations for Americans, there are still some places here that feel like secrets.
Sombrero Beach in Marathon, a small island community between Key Largo and Key West, is one of these hidden treasures.
This slice of paradise is a place that especially attracts Florida residents, and you’ll likely have more breathing room to enjoy the natural beauty.
With clear turquoise water and powdery soft sand, this beach is one of the best in the Keys.
Besides playing in the ocean, Marathon has a lot to offer visitors, including The Turtle Hospital and Dolphin Research Center, both of which offer tours.
Adventure enthusiasts will find excellent diving and snorkeling among the reefs, and Marathon Beach is also known for its world-class fishing.
Boca Chica Beach, Boca Chica Village, Texas
When we start talking about Texas, you might think of rodeos and trendy Austin, but this mega-state is also home to some pretty incredible beaches.
If, like me, you long for long, deserted stretches of sand and coastline over the beaches commercialized with resorts and bars, then Boca Chica Beach is the place for you.
You won’t find any restaurants, hotels or even toilet facilities here, just miles of untouched nature and emerald green waters.
This is the perfect place to escape civilization and recharge in nature.
Boca Chica Beach offers excellent bird watching, mangrove groves and if you’re lucky you might even see some turtles nesting during the spring and summer months.
It also happens that this area is home to Elon Musk’s SpaceX Center; If you’re looking for a unique activity, you can go there and see the rockets for yourself.
While I haven’t found an exact official date yet, it’s predicted there will be another launch in March 2024!
Saint George Island State Park, Saint George Florida
Located on a barrier island off Florida’s ‘forgotten coast’, you’ll find peaceful stretches of empty sand and waves instead of high-rises.
Saint George Island remains relatively undeveloped, despite being consistently rated as one of America’s best beaches.
This park has a classically beautiful beach, fishing opportunities and top-notch snorkeling and diving spots.
Once the sun sets, you can take advantage of the dark skies and stargaze by the ocean.
St George Island is a quaint island town with a relaxed atmosphere and an abundance of restaurants with great fresh seafood dishes to try.
Surfside Beach, Surfside Texas
Located just an hour outside of Houston, this quiet beach town is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Surfside Beach has warm water from the Gulf of Mexico and plenty of waves to play in.
In fact, this lesser-known spot is one of the best places to surf in Texas.
This sleepy Texas town has no commercial hotels and is best characterized by the colorful beach houses available for rent from locals on HomeAway or Airbnb.
Gulf Shores Beach, Gulf Shores Alabama
When it comes to dreamy travel destinations in the US, Alabama may not have been a state you thought had much to offer.
But Gulf Shores Alabama will pleasantly surprise you: With miles of sweet white beaches, award-winning restaurants, and plenty to do, this southern gem might just be your new favorite escape.
While the city’s highlight is certainly its beautiful coastline, you can also explore Civil War-era Fort Morgan, take a dolphin-watching cruise, or spend a day fishing.
Spring is an ideal time to visit as you can enjoy plenty of sunshine and daily high temperatures in the comfortable 70 degree range.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
