Summer is synonymous with the beach and there's no shortage of gorgeous coastlines for Americans to visit this time of year. However, there are a handful flying under the radar heading into summer vacation season.

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan's Traverse Bay, the namesake city hosts a slew of fun summer events, including the annual National Cherry Festival. This year's iteration kicks off June 30 and continues through July 7 with events like races and air shows.

Visitors to Cape Cod will find Chatham at the peninsula's southeastern tip. The walkable town is quintessential New England and home to some of the prettiest beaches on the Cape.

Georgia's Tybee Island is a popular trip and a bonus for travelers visiting Savannah as the charming barrier island is about a half-hour away. Wide beaches and historic lighthouses are among the destination's top draws.

Long Beach, Washington is a kite lover's dream. Not only is it home to the World Kite Museum but it also hosts the Washington State International Kite Festival every August.

If you're an outdoor enthusiast who loves to seek out wildlife, Chincoteague is the beach town for you. The 14,000-acre Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge features wild ponies, bald eagles, seabirds and an array of other animals.

This seaside village offers visitors not one but three sensational beaches to unwind on this summer, including Long Sands Beach and Short Sands Beach. The former is a two-mile stretch of white sand while the latter is within walking distance to dining, shops and an amusement park.

Nestled between Sullivan's Island and Dewees Island just outside of Charleston, South Carolina, Isle of Palms County Park is a phenomenal spot for a summer picnic on the beach. Visiting families can even stay nearby in one of the city's many convenient condos.

Rye, New Hampshire is located just south of Portsmouth along the Atlantic Coast roughly an hour from Boston. It boasts the largest amount of coastline in the entire state, offers some of the best seafood in New England and isn't far from attractions such as Water Country water park.

You'll find Lewes at Cape Henlopen where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors return to the seaside destination year after year to tour its historic district, scenic nature trails and of course, its beautiful sandy beaches.

One of the many gems on Florida's Gulf Coast, Anna Maria Island is famous for its spacious beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Family-friendly attractions include quaint shops, a 24-hour fishing pier and world-class eats that include build-your-own hot donuts.

Oregon's Cannon Beach has received a ton of praise in recent years and for good reason. However, visitors to the Beaver State will be equally pleased with what they discover after making the five-hour drive south to Bandon. In addition to offering one of the best beaches for shell hunters, the South Oregon Coast boasts tremendous opportunities for golfing, hiking, cycling and birding.

Florida's Emerald Coast is perhaps best known for Destin but sandwiched between Destin and Ft. Walton Beach is Okaloosa Island. Combined, the region offers pristine beaches, unparalleled water sports, world-class fishing and a plethora of family-friendly attractions, including live marine shows.

Located at the southern end of St. Pete Beach, Historic Pass-a-Grille is the ideal spot to unwind this summer. The quaint paradise is as easygoing as any destination in the Sunshine State and boasts unspoiled beaches, fishing piers, boutiques and even an outdoor art market.

There's something for everyone to enjoy along the Asbury Park Boardwalk and the adjacent beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, fishing, surfing and more. Live music, mini golf and other traditional beachfront attractions make the seaside town ideal for a summer getaway, whether you're staying for a weekend or a week.

Bay St. Louis is less than an hour away from New Orleans so consider adding it to your Big Easy itinerary this summer. Visitors will be met by glorious white-sand beaches as well as brews and views at The Blind Tiger.

If you prefer a quiet summer vacation, consider making plans to visit Block Island, Rhode Island. Home to the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs, the three-by-seven-mile island boasts a whopping 17 miles of free public beaches.

Visitors to Kill Devil Hills in the Outer Banks can stand at the Wright Brothers' famous take-off spot, cast a line from Avalon Pier, tour a wildlife art gallery, play mini-golf and laser tag. Don't forget about the beach.

A summer vacation in Paia will no doubt have visitors falling in love with the laid-back lifestyle. One of Maui's best-kept secrets, this beach town is home to Hookipa Beach, the windsurfing capital of the world.

Located on Mustang Island along the Texas Coast, Port Aransas boasts several miles of beautiful beaches, which host the annual Texas SandFest. Meanwhile, visitors can take in stellar views and even spot dolphins from the observation tower at Roberts Point Park.

Stinson Beach is easy to overlook given its close proximity to San Francisco. The pristine beach destination is just 20 miles northwest of the Bay Area, making for a convenient day trip.