With international travel more expensive than ever, Americans are rediscovering the magic of their own backyard – and they’re skipping the packed coastlines for beaches that feel like well-kept secrets. According to recent trends, travelers are heading to under-the-radar coastal escapes where parking is easy, cell service is optional, and the views are postcard-perfect, and a local destination is Kentucky’s only entry on the list.
From driftwood-strewn shores in the Pacific Northwest to sugar-white sands hidden behind Gulf Coast dunes, Frugal Flyer carried out a survey of 3,002 locals to uncover the best hidden beaches across the U.S. – the kinds of places people almost don’t want to share.
Laurel River Lake Beach was ranked 64th on the list.
“Nestled in the Daniel Boone National Forest, Laurel River Lake Beach is a hidden gem with surprisingly clear, emerald-green water and a laid-back, uncrowded shoreline. The beach lies within the spillway area near the dam and offers a small but well-kept stretch of sand perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or launching a kayak,” Frugal Flyer wrote on its website.
“The lake itself spans over 5,600 acres, with twisting fingers of water and forested cliffs that make it feel more like a mountain retreat than a typical Kentucky lake. Wildlife is abundant, and the water is deep and clean – ideal for a quiet dip or a peaceful paddle at sunset.”
Frugal Flyer is a Canadian-based travel blog, focusing on how you can use miles, points, and loyalty programs to build the most memorable travel experiences for yourself, your friends, and your family. Its mission is to make the travel dreams of Canadians a reality by providing actionable guidance to help you earn, manage, and redeem the miles and points needed for your next vacation, Frugal Flyer wrote on its website.
The top three beaches on the list are all located in Hawaii. Awahua Beach was ranked No. 1, followed by Pa’ako Cove and Gray’s Beach. Rounding out the top five were Oregon’s Secret Beach and Florida’s Shell Key Preserve.
“As flight prices rise and popular beach spots get more crowded, travelers are turning to the kind of hidden gems that locals have cherished for years,” said Josh Bandura at Frugal Flyer. “These aren’t your typical sun-and-surf destinations – they’re quiet, awe-inspiring pockets of nature where the signal fades and the views take over. Our survey shows a growing appetite for places that feel discovered, not designed.”
For more information about the list of best hidden gym beaches, go to https://frugalflyer.ca/blog/95-best-secret-beaches-in-america/.
