USPS Unveils New First-Class 'Day at the Beach' Stamps

By Amanda GreenwoodAssociate News EditorShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has released a new series of Forever stamps designed to capture the familiar sights and slower pace of a seaside beach holiday and “add a touch of sunshine to correspondence.” The “A Day at the Beach” stamps officially debuted on April 24, 2026, during a first‑day‑of‑issue ceremony at the WESTPEX Stamp Show in Burlingame, California, according to the USPS press release, and are now available to buy. Stamp Design and InspirationThe four‑stamp set features illustrated scenes commonly associated with a day at the beach:...A sandcastle taking shape on the shoreA seagull perched on a beach-weathered wooden postA traditional bicycle, parked on the sand A person sitting on the sand underneath a brightly colored beach umbrellaUSPS art director Derry Noyes worked on the stamp designs, using original oil paintings by artist Gregory Manchess. USPS said the designs were inspired by Noyes’ annual summer trips to beaches in New England.Why USPS Introduced the Beach‑Themed Stamp SetUSPS regularly releases stamps that reflect shared American experiences, seasons, and historic cultural moments. When announcing the new beach‑themed stamps, the agency described the designs as a celebration of “one of summer’s greatest pleasures” and the simple joys associated with coastal escapes. The release of the “Day at the Beach” stamp series ties into the USPS’s broader 2026 Forever stamp program, which mixes lighthearted, everyday themes with commemorations of major cultural figures, anniversaries, and historical milestones.Lisa Bobb-Semple, USPS stamp services director, said that “each stamp is a small work of art — an entryway into a larger story that connects people, places, and moments in history. This year, we continue to honor that legacy with a diverse range of subjects and designs, from beloved series and commemorative anniversaries to bold new releases that will inspire and excite collectors and admirers alike.”How and Where Consumers Can Buy the 'Day at the Beach' StampsThe “A Day at the Beach” stamps are available in booklets of 20 and can be purchased:At Post Office locations nationwideOnline through The Postal Store at USPS.comBy calling the USPS stamp ordering service at 844-737-7826 Via mail order Through selected, officially licensed USPS retailers on AmazonHow Much Do the Stamps Cost? At the time of publishing, the beach‑themed stamps are priced at 78 cents per stamp, which is the current First‑Class Mail one‑ounce rate, according to USPS pricing. A booklet of 20, therefore, will cost $15.60 before applicable taxes or fees.It’s worth noting that, at the beginning of April, the USPS filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission to propose stamp price changes, which are set to take effect on July 12, 2026. If approved, the changes would raise the price of a First‑Class Mail Forever stamp by 4 cents, from 78 cents to 82 cents. The increase will not affect the validity of any Forever stamps that have already been purchased. They will remain valid for mailing a one‑ounce First‑Class letter, regardless of future postage price increases, according to the USPS.Other Forever Stamps Launched in 2026 Earlier this year, USPS rolled out several additional stamps as part of its 2026 program, including:Love (2026) stamps,…

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