We find the perfect seaside escape in the United States feels rather like hunting for treasure. Along more than 95,000 miles of stunning coastline, charming towns await eager visitors.
From the rugged shores of Maine to the golden beaches of California, each coastal spot shares its own unique story. Picture yourself strolling past weathered lighthouses or browsing bustling seafood markets filled with the day’s fresh catch.
These lovely coastal havens blend peaceful moments with exciting adventures. We see majestic whales breach the waves in Bar Harbor, or wander past storybook cottages in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Each seaside town welcomes guests with warm smiles and salty breezes, making holiday memories that last well beyond summer’s end.
The East Coast brims with lovely beach towns that sparkle with old-world charm and salty air. We love these spots for their mix of fresh seafood, sandy shores, and friendly locals who make every visit feel like coming home.
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Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor stands as a crown jewel among America’s coastal towns, nestled on the stunning Mt. Desert Island. We love how this charming seaside community blends natural beauty with small-town charm.
Our favourite spot remains Acadia National Park, which covers most of the island and offers breathtaking views from Cadillac Mountain.
We spend our mornings watching boats bob in the harbour whilst sipping fresh coffee at local cafes. Wild whales breach the surface during summer boat tours, creating unforgettable moments for visitors and locals alike.
This quaint beachside town truly comes alive between June and August, as gentle sea breezes carry the scent of salt water through its tree-lined streets.
Our walks through the historic streets reveal cosy shops and seafood restaurants serving fresh catches daily. Small fishing boats dot the harbour, bringing in their daily hauls as they have done for generations.
From hiking trails to seaside picnics, Bar Harbor offers countless ways to enjoy Maine’s rugged coastline and pristine waters.
Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May stands as America’s oldest seaside resort, with its streets lined with stunning Victorian homes. We love strolling past the gingerbread-trimmed houses, each painted in bright colours that catch the sunlight.
The town’s charm shines through its well-preserved architecture and historic Chalfonte Hotel, which has welcomed guests since 1876.
Our favourite way to explore this coastal gem involves taking horse-drawn carriage rides through the historic district. The clip-clop of hooves on cobblestone streets adds to the town’s old-world atmosphere.
Local sweet shops tempt us with their famous saltwater taffy, a treat that has delighted visitors for generations.
The beaches here offer pristine sand and gentle waves perfect for swimming or sunbathing. We often spot dolphins playing in the surf during our morning walks along the shore. The town’s quaint shops and seafood restaurants create a cosy seaside community feeling that makes everyone feel at home.
The Victorian lampposts light up the evening streets, casting a warm glow over couples and families enjoying their coastal holiday.
Chincoteague, Virginia
Chincoteague Island stands as a magical coastal retreat where wild ponies roam free along pristine beaches. We love watching these majestic creatures gallop through the surf, a tradition that dates back generations.
The annual Pony Penning event, running since 1925, draws thousands of visitors to our charming seaside community each summer.
Our quaint coastal town offers more than just its famous four-legged residents. The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge provides a perfect spot for bird watching and nature walks.
We take pride in our fresh seafood catches, serving up local delicacies at family-owned restaurants dotting our waterfront. The barrier island’s peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal hidden gem for those seeking a serene coastal escape away from busy tourist spots.
The West Coast holds some of our favourite seaside spots, where the Pacific waves meet rugged cliffs and sandy shores. These coastal gems blend natural beauty with small-town charm, offering everything from art galleries and local seafood to stunning sunsets and wildlife watching.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel-by-the-Sea stands as a magical coastal gem along California’s central coast. We love its fairy tale-like downtown, where cobbled streets wind through charming shops and art galleries.
This quaint seaside town has drawn creative souls since the early 1900s, making it a perfect spot for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Our favourite spots include the stunning Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where sea lions bask on rocky shores. Carmel River State Beach offers perfect spots for picnics and sunset views, whilst Garrapata State Park presents breath-taking coastal trails.
Local restaurants serve fresh seafood paired with extensive wine lists from nearby vineyards.
We find ourselves lost in the town’s European charm, as hidden courtyards and secret passageways reveal cosy cafes and boutique shops. Small cottages with names instead of street numbers add to the village’s whimsical character.
Artists still flock here today, keeping alive the creative spirit that has defined this seaside community for over a century.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach stands as a stunning coastal gem along Oregon’s rugged Pacific shore. We love strolling past the massive Haystack Rock, which towers 235 feet above the shoreline. This natural wonder serves as home to colourful sea stars and delicate anemones, making it a perfect spot for tide pooling adventures.
Our favourite time to visit the beach comes during low tide, where Hug Point reveals hidden caves and rich marine life. The sandy shores stretch for miles, offering plenty of space for beachcombing and peaceful walks.
Local artists capture the town’s beauty in numerous art galleries, while the historic Coaster Theatre brings culture to life with amazing live shows.
The small-town charm mixes perfectly with outdoor fun in this secluded seaside getaway. We often spot puffins nesting on Haystack Rock’s cliff faces during spring and summer months.
The nearby coastal trails provide brilliant views of the Pacific Ocean, while the town centre buzzes with cosy cafes and unique shops selling local crafts.
San Clemente, California
San Clemente stands out as a coastal gem in Southern California, where Spanish Colonial Revival buildings line the streets. We love strolling through this laid-back town, taking in its rich history and stunning ocean views.
The town’s relaxed atmosphere draws both locals and visitors to its sandy shores.
Our favourite spots include the local trails perfect for longboarding and hiking adventures. The town’s architecture tells stories of the past, while modern surf culture thrives along its beaches.
Local cafes and shops dot the streets, offering cosy spots to rest after a day of exploring the seaside paths.
The American South offers sun-soaked beaches and laid-back charm, where wild horses roam free near historic lighthouses, and fresh seafood fills local plates — we’ll show you our favourite spots where time seems to slow down and worries melt away like ice cream on a hot summer’s day…
Tybee Island, Georgia
Tybee Island stands as a peaceful retreat on Georgia’s coast, just 20 minutes from historic Savannah. We love this small barrier island for its laid-back charm and five miles of pristine sandy beaches.
Our favourite spot remains Fort Screven, a coastal defence that tells tales from the Spanish-American War through World War II.
Locals and visitors mingle at the iconic Tybee Island Pier, where fishing, people-watching, and sunset views create perfect holiday memories. We often spot dolphins playing in the waves whilst enjoying fresh seafood at beachfront cafes.
The island’s small-town vibe shines through its colourful beach cottages and friendly shopkeepers who greet everyone with warm Southern smiles.
Nature lovers flock to Little Tybee Island, an untouched paradise next door that’s only reachable by boat or kayak. We spend hours watching birds at the marine science centre or climbing the 178 steps of the Tybee Lighthouse for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Summer brings special charm with weekly fireworks displays and live music events that make this seaside community feel like one big family gathering.
Sanibel Island, Florida
Sanibel Island stands out as a true coastal gem along Florida’s Gulf Coast. We love watching locals and visitors alike perform the famous “Sanibel Stoop” – a unique posture adopted while collecting seashells at Bowman’s Beach.
The pristine shoreline holds more than 250 types of seashells, making it a paradise for shell collectors and beach wanderers.
Our favourite spots include the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where nature meets adventure. The refuge offers brilliant chances for bird-watching, with over 245 bird species calling it home.
We often spend hours kayaking through the mangrove forests or casting lines for some excellent fishing. The calm waters around the island create perfect conditions for these water activities.
The island’s charm lies in its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty. We regularly spot dolphins playing in the Gulf waters while strolling along the 15 miles of unspoiled beaches.
The lack of traffic lights and building height restrictions keeps the island’s small-town feel intact. The local shops and restaurants serve fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen, adding to the authentic coastal experience.
Our final stops take us to two hidden coastal gems that offer more than just sandy beaches – we’ll show you the magic of whale watching in Friday Harbor and the vibrant art scene in Provincetown that makes these spots truly special.
Friday Harbor, Washington
Friday Harbor stands as a hidden seaside gem on San Juan Island in Washington state. We love its mix of coastal charm and rich marine life, where the 1919 lighthouse at Lime Kiln Point State Park serves as a perfect spot for whale watching.
The town welcomes visitors through ferry rides or seaplane trips, making each arrival feel like the start of a special adventure.
The Whale Museum draws nature lovers from across the globe to this cosy coastal village. We find the local seafood spots serve fresh catches daily, while the streets buzz with friendly faces and small-town warmth.
The clear waters around Friday Harbor offer views of orcas and seals playing in their natural home. Local boats take groups out for close-up views of these amazing sea creatures, creating perfect moments for photos and memories.
Provincetown, Massachusetts
Provincetown stands proud at the tip of Cape Cod as a vibrant coastal haven. Our small town’s population of under 3,000 locals grows much larger in summer months. The streets buzz with art galleries, cosy cafes, and colourful shops that give our seaside community its unique charm.
Race Point Beach and Herring Cove offer perfect spots for swimming, sunbathing, and watching stunning sunsets over the Atlantic waters.
Our town shines as a leading LGBTQ+ destination in the United States. The local cabarets and drag shows light up our nights with music, laughter, and stellar performances. The streets come alive during our famous annual Carnival celebration, where the parade fills the air with joy and excitement.
Local seafood spots serve fresh catches daily, whilst art lovers browse the many galleries that line our historic streets.
Our quaint coastal village mixes old-world charm with modern spirit perfectly. The historic buildings tell tales of our fishing heritage, whilst the lively arts scene shows our creative soul.
Small boats bob in the harbour as seabirds soar overhead, creating picture-perfect scenes that draw visitors back year after year to our peaceful seaside retreat.
America’s coastal towns hold magic in their salty air and sandy shores. We love how each town brings its own special charm, from Maine’s rocky cliffs to California’s sunny beaches.
These small towns offer perfect spots for making lasting memories with family and friends. Local seafood spots, quiet beaches, and friendly faces make these places feel like home away from home.
Our coastal towns give visitors a chance to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. These hidden gems along our shores wait to welcome travelers who seek peace by the sea.
Bar Harbor, Maine, and Bald Head Island offer stunning coastal escapes. Oak Bluffs in Massachusetts charms visitors with its colourful Victorian houses, while Chincoteague, Virginia delights with wild ponies and serene beaches.
Try the secluded beach towns like New Shoreham on Block Island or Wellfleet. These cosy coastal villages provide a perfect retreat from busy city life, with fewer tourists than popular spots like Ocean City.
Port Townsend and Rockport, MA serve brilliant fresh catches. These charming seaside communities are famous for their local fish markets and waterfront restaurants that serve daily catches.
Ho’okipa and Haleiwa provide amazing surf spots. The Outer Banks near Nags Head offers brilliant whale-watching. Padre Island National Seashore presents perfect conditions for swimming and kayaking.
The Graveyard of the Atlantic in the Outer Banks tells tales of shipwrecks. Tlingit totem poles grace various coastal towns, while Bald Head Island Conservancy preserves maritime history.
Rincón offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for short holidays. Siesta Beach provides stunning views and relaxing vibes. The barrier islands near Ocean City, Maryland feature lovely amusement parks for family fun.
