Hawaii's Beaches Dominate Top 10 List, But Tourism Struggles

As of November 17th, 2025, the top beach in the United States is Siesta Beach in Siesta Key, Florida. The beach is praised for its white-quartz sand, shallow water, and nearby shops and cafes. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking tours to spot local marine life.

However, Hawaii's beaches have also made a strong showing, with as many as five of the top 10 beaches located in the island state. The Poipu Beach in Poipu, Hawaii, has claimed the second spot, known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling, boogie boarding, and surfing.

Despite Hawaii's natural beauty and scenic vistas, the state's tourism industry has faced a decline in visitor arrivals since the COVID-19 pandemic. Operators are now looking to cut flights to Hawaii, including inter-island travel, as October 2025 was reported to be one of the slowest months ever seen. The government shutdown and its impact on air traffic controllers have further exacerbated the situation, leading to a reduction in flights to the Daniel Inouye International Airport.

While the end of the government shutdown may signal a recovery in Hawaii's tourist footfall, the long-standing issues facing the industry may require deeper analysis to identify and address the underlying causes.