9. University of Miami

This private Florida university is, perhaps surprisingly, the school on our list that’s farthest from the beach. In fact, students have to drive from the university in Coral Gables, sometimes through notorious traffic, to get to the famous South Beach strip or gorgeous Key Biscayne beaches. But it is Miami, and the campus is only a few miles from Biscayne Bay. Plus, the consistent hot, sunny weather that means students can maintain a bronze glow all year long.

Money Best Colleges rank: 399

Distance to the nearest beach: 10 miles

Graduation rate: 82%

Read more about the University of Miami.