9. Coast Guard Beach, Cape Cod, Mass. A part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, Coast Guard Beach is a prime swimming beach during the summer season, according to the National Park Service. The beach is home to seals, terns and various shorebirds. More information: www.nps.gov/caco/planyourvisit/coast-guard-beach-eastham.htm (Margo Tabb / Associated Press)
8. Cape Florida State Park, Key Biscayne, Fla. Described as great for swimming by Dr. Beach, Cape Florida State Park also features a historic lighthouse built in 1825. For more information: www.floridastateparks.org/capeflorida (Wilfredo Lee / Associated Press)
5. Hamoa Beach, Maui, Hawaii Hamoa Beach moved up two spots this year, coming in No. 7 in 2008. For more information: www.hawaiiweb.com/maui/beaches/HamoaBeach.htm (Ron Dahlquist / Associated Press)
2. Siesta Beach, Sarasota, Fla. Dr. Beach says Siesta Beach has clear, warm waters that serve for ideal swimming. The beach came in No. 3 in 2008. For more information: www.4sarasota.com/siestakey/beach.html (Glen Hastings / Associated Press)
