National Seashores - Top 10 in the USA

Cape Cod National Seashore(1961) - Massachusetts
The Cape Cod National Seashore(CCNS) was created on August 7, 1961 by President John F. Kennedy. It encompasses 43,500 acres of ponds, woods and beachfront on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The CCNS includes nearly 40 miles of seashore along the Atlantic-facing eastern edge of Cape Cod, in the towns of Provincetown, Truro, Wellfleet, Eastham, Orleans and Chatham.

Gulf Islands National Seashore - Florida, Alabama, Mississippi

Cape Hatteras National Seashore - North Carolina
Cape Hatteras National Seashore preserves the portion of the Outer Banks of North Carolina from Bodie Island to Ocracoke Island, stretching over 70 miles. Once dubbed the "Graveyard of the Atlantic" for its treacherous currents, shoals, and storms, Cape Hatteras has a wealth of history relating to shipwrecks, lighthouses, and the US Lifesaving Service.

Point Reyes National Seashore - California
Point Reyes National Seashore is a 70,000-acre park preserve located on the Point Reyes Peninsula in Marin County, California. The peninsula includes wild coastal beaches and headlands, estuaries, and uplands. The Point Reyes Lighthouse attracts whale-watchers looking for the Gray Whale migrating south in mid-January and north in mid-March.

Assateague Island National Seashore - Maryland and Virginia
Assateague Island National Seashore occupies much of Assateague Island along the Atlantic coast of Maryland and Virginia. It is a barrier island shaped by stormy seas and gentle winds. It lies adjacent to Assateague State Park and Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.Bands of feral horses freely roam among plants and native animals that have adapted to a life of sand, salt and wind.

Canaveral National Seashore - Florida
Situated on a barrier island along Florida's east coast, inviting park highlights include pristine, undeveloped beach, dunes and lagoon offering sanctuary to an abundant blend of plants and animals. Year-round recreation includes fishing, boating, canoeing, surfing, sunbathing, swimming, hiking, camping, nature and historical trails.

Padre Island National Seashore - Texas

Padre Island National Seashore is located on Padre Island off the coast of South Texas. In contrast to South Padre Island (well known for its beaches and vacationing college students), PINS is located on North Padre Island and consists of a long beach where nature is preserved. Primitive camping is available there and most of the beach is only accessible to four wheel drive vehicles.

Cape Lookout National Seashore - North Carolina
Cape Lookout National Seashore preserves a 56 mile long section of the Southern Outer Banks, or Crystal Coast, of North Carolina, USA, running from Ocracoke Inlet on the northeast to Beaufort Inlet on the southeast. Three undeveloped barrier islands make up the seashore - North Core Banks, South Core Banks and Shackleford Banks. The seashore includes two historic villages on Core Banks.

Fire Island National Seashore - New York
Fire Island National Seashore is located near Patchogue, New York and protects a 26 mile section of Fire Island, an approximately 30 mile long barrier island separated from Lon by the Great South Bay. Rhythmic waves, high dunes, ancient maritime forests, historic landmarks and glimpses of wildlife—Fire Island has been a special place for diverse plants, animals and people for centuries.

Cumberland Island National Seashore - Georgia
Cumberland Island is Georgia's largest and southernmost barrier island. Pristine maritime forests, undeveloped beaches and wide marshes whisper the stories of both man and nature. Come walk in the footsteps of early natives, explorers, and wealthy industrialists. Enjoy ranger guided tours or explore in quiet solitude.