These Are the Top 10 Trending Beautiful Places to Visit in the U.S., According to Google
Travel + Leisure
By Michael Cappetta
December 9, 2025
As the year comes to a close, travelers are on the lookout for beautiful locations to add to their travel list for 2026. And one beach locale is currently trending. North Carolina's Outer Banks topped the list of trending destinations in the United States, according to data from Google that was shared with Travel + Leisure. Known for its Southern charm and dozens of miles of beaches and shores, the Outer Banks is an affordable and relaxing place to spend a vacation. Made up of several islands off the Atlantic coast of North Carolina, the Outer Banks boasts amazing hotels, incredible food, and more. It was also the inspiration behind Netflix's hit series Outer Banks and many of the filming locations are available to visit in real life (though most locations are in neighboring South Carolina).
The islands also have a 4.8 ranking on Google Maps with more than 2,600 reviews.
"Best kept secret," one traveler wrote in a Google review. "Everything is amazing here, from the view, to the beach, to the homes."
To give back while traveling, the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau operates a volunteer program, connecting tourists to local organizations working to protect the beaches, support animals, and more.
Complete Story
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Dec 9, 2025
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by Outer Banks Visitors Bureau
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