The Daily Beast/Newsweek released its 20 Most Popular U.S. Beaches report, and Laguna Beach, Calif. ranked No.1 in California, and No. 6 nationwide. The Daily Beast sought to answer the most basic question of summer vacations: Which beach is the country’s most popular?

To compile the list, they turned to the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA), which maintains statistics for more than 200 beaches as reported by local lifeguard agencies. They considered the 2010 total beach attendance figures from the USLA as well as total resident population of each beach town according to the Census to determine which beach had the most visitors overall, as well as those that lure the most guests compared to residents.

According to the USLA, Laguna Beach had an attendance in 2010 of 3,912,483 visitors with a resident population of 24,131.

“It’s exciting to know that Laguna Beach is top of mind when visitors are planning a vacation to a beach destination,” said Karyn Philippsen, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Laguna Beach Visitors & Conference Bureau (LBVCB).

“We’re delighted Laguna Beach was named the most popular beach in California,” said Judy Bijlani, President & CEO of the LBVCB. “Our protected coastal marine reserve offers so much to visitors and locals alike, from a myriad of ocean activities such as kayaking and paddle boarding to pristine beaches, coves and tide pools.”