The 46 Most Quaint and Charming Beach Towns in America For Your Best Vacation Yet
You don't even have to leave the U.S. for a warm weather getaway.
We're cracking open a classic beach read, because it's vacation time! If you're planing your next big beach trip, may we suggest soaking up the sun and enjoying the laid-back attitude of a quintessential beach town? There are so many beautiful and fascinating places outside the country that are waiting to be explored, but sometimes you just need a vacation that's more about catching up on some much needed relaxation. You won't need a passport for any of the places on this list, because the United States has thousands of miles of pristine coastlines — and we've found the best beach towns among them.
And while you probably know how you'll be spending your vacay on the beach (something along the lines of enjoying the lovely view, turning off your phone, and getting some much-needed R&R), it's important to remember that every coastal destination has a different vibe. For instance, one of the quaint villages tucked away on the Massachusetts coast feel very different from a tropical, laid-back hangout in Southern Florida. There's so much natural beauty to enjoy in this country — who knows, you may even find a hidden gem to too far from where you live. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway for two, or somewhere that the whole family can enjoy, consider one of these picturesque getaways for you next vacation.
California: Carmel-by-the-Sea
Romantic homes are plentiful in California, but the area's gorgeous weather that makes everything a little prettier — and it really doesn't get much lovelier than Carmel-by-the-Sea, which looks like a movie set.
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California: Mendocino
Nestled between redwoods and wine country, this Northern California coastal town has a distinctive beauty.
California: Newport Beach
There's so much jaw-dropping natural beauty in this southern California town, which also boosts some stunning real estate.
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California: Santa Barbara
Nicknamed the "American Riviera," Santa Barbara has an old-school California charm. The architecture channels the area's Spanish heritage, with tiled roofs and white stucco throughout the area.
Connecticut: Niantic
Located near the tourist magnet Mystic Seaport, Niantic offers a town that's slightly less crowded — but by no means less charming. You won't find big-box stores here, but you will find a lovely main street that runs parallel to the Long Island Sound for gorgeous views as you grab a leisurely lunch.
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Connecticut: Old Saybrook
If this town is good enough for Katherine Hepburn, then we really can't complain. Old Saybrook is near Niantic (it's about a 15-minute drive) and has a similar old-school charm. However, the Connecticut shore town decidedly popular in the summer, when the population triples to 30,000 from 10,000.
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Delaware: Lewes
Lewes may be perched on the Delaware Bay, but we just had to include it in our list. The highly walkable town features a small historic district, and an easy pace of life that's heavenly for those who don't want the hustle and bustle of busier beach towns.
Delaware: Rehoboth Beach
Delaware's most popular beach town draws tourists from the tri-state region, who love the nostalgic vibe of the boardwalk and shopping districts.
Florida: Amelia Island
Over the years, this serene island on the northern Atlantic coast side of Florida has become a beach destination known for its cultural offerings in addition to its stately homes.
Florida: Key West
Many think that Key West is paradise on earth. and we can certainly see where they're coming from. There are candy-colored homes, coral reefs to explore, there's exceptional seafood, and there's an overall "vacation" atmosphere where you can really let your hair down.
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Florida: Matlacha
It might not be as well-known as other Florida beach towns, but this small island is simply adorable. Brightly-hued homes and galleries mingle with fishing boats and nature lovers.
Florida: Palm Beach
Since its founding, Palm Beach has been synonymous with luxury. There are some of the most beautiful mansions you'll see, along with the gorgeous shopping district on Worth Avenue.
Florida: St. Augustine
St. Augustine is filled with historic sights, ranging from the oldest wooden school house in America to the oldest masonry fort in the United States. You can even visit the Fountain of Youth.
Georgia: Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island
Jekyll Island is known for its dramatic scenery, ranging from marshlands to unique beaches, like the highly photogenic Driftwood Beach.
Georgia: Tybee Island
Just down the way from gorgeous Savannah is its "official" beach: Tybee Island. This barrier island has picturesque southern architecture, but is also known for its seasonal population of loggerhead turtles.
Maine: Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor is an area with two distinct personalities. On one side is the preppy vacation destination complete with a quaint shopping district, and on the other side the stunning Acadia National Park is located.
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Maine: Camden
Like other New England beach towns, Camden is decidedly more popular in the summer (the populations swells to three times its year-round size then). One visit to this historic and creative town will make you want to join the masses who summer here.
Maine: Rockport
Rockport is a town over from Camden and has a slightly sleepier feel. The town has actually be become something of an art colony for those inspired by its striking shores.
Maryland: Assateague Island
You've never experienced anything quite like Assateague Island, where hundreds of wild horses roam free. Though you won't find a boardwalk or a residential area here, you just might find yourself sharing the shore with friendy members of the equine population.
Maryland: Ocean City
With shops, restaurants and rides lining Ocean City's wooden boardwalk, there's plenty of ways to keep busy at this beach town.
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