The 18 Best Beach Towns in The U.S For a Soothing Coastal Escape

Are you typing “peaceful beach vacations” into Google while you should be working? Fear not, dear friend, because you are not alone in your quest for sun, sand, and a little seaside serenity.

To save you from the daunting task of sifting through endless options (and to keep the boss from catching on to your work-time travel planning), here is a curated list of the 18 best beach towns in the U.S. for that perfect coastal escape.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is a must-visit for any beach lover, with its 60 miles of sandy beaches, lively boardwalk, and endless entertainment options. Visitors can choose from various activities, including parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.

Beyond the beach, Myrtle Beach is home to over 90 golf courses, making it a golfer’s paradise. And for those seeking some thrills, head to the Family Kingdom Amusement Park or catch a show at the Carolina Opry.

Daufuskie Island, South Carolina

Escape daily life’s hustle on Daufuskie Island, South Carolina. This secluded island is only accessible by boat, making it a true hidden gem. With no cars or traffic lights, visitors can enjoy relaxing walks along the beach and explore the island’s rich history through its Gullah culture and historic landmarks.

For ultimate relaxation, stay in one of the island’s charming vacation rentals and indulge in fresh seafood at the local restaurants. Daufuskie Island is the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil beach vacation.

Long Beach, New York

Located just a short train journey from New York City, Long Beach offers a quick seaside getaway for city dwellers. This vibrant beach town is known for its 2.2-mile boardwalk, pristine beaches, and lively atmosphere.

Visitors can relax on the beach or try water sports like surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. When the sun sets, head to one of Long Beach’s many bars and restaurants for live music and delicious cocktails.

Sunset Beach, North Carolina

Escape to the quiet and charming town of Sunset Beach, North Carolina. With only one access road, this small barrier island feels like a world away from the crowds of larger beaches.

Visitors can bike or walk along the beach’s 3-mile shoreline, collect seashells, and spot dolphins off the coast. After a day in the sun, grab some ice cream from How Sweet It Is and watch the sunset over the iconic Sunset Beach Pier.

Lincoln City, Oregon

Look no further than Lincoln City, Oregon, for those seeking a more laid-back beach experience. This quaint coastal town offers 7 miles of sandy beaches and lots of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and fishing.

Visitors can also indulge in some retail therapy at the Tanger Outlets or explore the local art scene at the Lincoln City Cultural Center. And don’t forget to try the famous clam chowder at Mo’s Restaurant, a local favorite.

Huntington Beach, California

Known as “Surf City USA,” Huntington Beach is a haven for surfers and beach enthusiasts. With nearly 10 miles of uninterrupted coastline, visitors can catch some waves, take a leisurely bike ride along the boardwalk, or soak up the California sun.

The lively downtown area offers an array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Don’t miss the opportunity to snap a photo with the iconic Huntington Beach Pier in the background.

New Smyrna Beach, Florida

Located just an hour’s drive from Orlando, New Smyrna Beach is the best destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. This charming beach town offers a relaxed atmosphere, with 13 miles of uncrowded beaches and a quaint historic district filled with boutiques and cafes.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the nearby Canaveral National Seashore and Indian River Lagoon. At the same time, foodies can indulge in fresh seafood at local favorites like The Breakers Restaurant and Norwood’s Eatery & Treehouse Bar.

Pass-A-Grille, Florida

Located on the southern tip of St. Pete Beach, Pass-A-Grille is a hidden gem along the Gulf of Mexico. This quiet and quaint town offers a peaceful beach experience, with white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Visitors can also explore the charming downtown area with historic homes and boutique shops or take in stunning views from the landmark Hurricane Pass Bridge. Grab a grouper sandwich from the Seahorse Restaurant or enjoy a sunset drink at The Hurricane to taste the local flavor.

Emerald Isle, North Carolina

Escape to the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches of Emerald Isle, North Carolina. This small beach town offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as fishing, boating, and surfing. Visitors can also take a scenic drive along the Emerald Isle Bike Path or explore one of the many nature trails.

Try fresh seafood at The Village Market or drink at one of the beachfront bars. Emerald Isle’s laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty make it the perfect place for a relaxing beach vacation.

Rockaway Beach, New York

Located on the shores of Queens, New York, Rockaway Beach offers a unique and diverse beach experience. Visitors can enjoy a mix of bustling boardwalk activities like surfing, kayaking, and beach volleyball, along with peaceful stretches of sand to relax and soak up the sun. Foodies will love the multicultural food scene at beachfront restaurants and vendors, offering everything from tacos to Italian ice.

And don’t miss the chance to see a free concert or movie at the Rockaway Beach Surf Club while enjoying stunning ocean views. Rockaway Beach offers diverse options, from a day trip to a weekend escape, catering to everyone’s preferences.

Corpus Christi, Texas

Corpus Christi is a favorite beach destination for locals and tourists on the Gulf of Mexico. With over 100 miles of coastline, visitors can explore various beaches, including the family-friendly North Beach and the laid-back Mustang Island State Park.

Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy windsurfing, kiteboarding, and kayaking in the Gulf’s warm waters. To taste Texas culture, visit the historic USS Lexington or stroll through the colorful downtown area, which is filled with art galleries and delicious Tex-Mex restaurants.

Ocean Springs, Mississippi

For a unique beach experience, head to Ocean Springs, Mississippi. This coastal town is known for its small-town charm and vibrant arts scene, with plenty of galleries and boutique shops to explore. The beaches here are less crowded than other Gulf Coast destinations, making it the perfect place for a quiet day by the water.

Visitors can also take a scenic drive along the oceanfront Highway 90 or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants, like Mosaic Tapas Bar or The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint. With its mix of Southern charm and coastal beauty, Ocean Springs offers a truly unforgettable beach vacation.

Montecito, California

Montecito is nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean and offers a luxurious beach experience in Southern California. The pristine beaches here are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, and visitors can also take a stroll along the famous Butterfly Beach and spot dolphins playing in the water.

After a day at the beach, indulge in retail therapy at the upscale boutiques in downtown Montecito or dine at one of the many gourmet restaurants, like Lucky’s Steakhouse or The Honor Bar. Montecito is a top choice for a luxurious beach vacation with its stunning natural beauty and high-end amenities.

Nags Head, North Carolina

Head to Nags Head on North Carolina’s Outer Banks for a classic beach vacation. This historic beach town offers a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities, with many opportunities for activities like fishing, boating, and kayaking. Visitors can also enjoy a picturesque drive along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore or climb the famous dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park.

And no trip to Nags Head is complete without trying the local delicacy, a seafood boil from Sam & Omie’s, or a famous Duck Donut. With its laid-back atmosphere and charming beach vibes, Nags Head is the perfect destination for a classic beach vacation.

Avila Beach, California

Avila Beach is a small, secluded beach town on California’s Central Coast, perfect for a romantic getaway. The beaches here are lined with charming beachfront homes and offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can also enjoy hiking along the nearby Point San Luis Lighthouse or tasting local wines at one of the many wineries in the area.

For a truly unique experience, book a stay in one of the beachfront yurts at Avila Beach RV Resort. Avila Beach is the ideal destination for a romantic beach vacation with its picturesque scenery and relaxing atmosphere.

Cape May, New Jersey

Known as America’s oldest seaside resort town, Cape May offers a charming and historic beach experience on the East Coast. The beaches here are lined with Victorian-style homes and offer a mix of family-friendly activities like mini golf and beachfront concerts, along with more tranquil spots to relax.

Visitors can also tour the historic Cape May Lighthouse or enjoy some fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants, like Lobster House or Peter Shields Inn. With its rich history and picturesque views, Cape May is a must-visit destination for beach lovers.

Chatham, Massachusetts

Chatham is located on Cape Cod, a quintessential New England beach town with a charming Main Street and picturesque beaches. Visitors can swim, fish, and kayak on famous beaches like Lighthouse Beach and Oyster Pond Beach. Stop by one of the many art galleries or attend the annual Chatham Summerfest to taste the local culture.

For a unique beach experience, take a seal-watching tour or visit the Chatham Lighthouse Maritime Museum. With its small-town charm and beautiful beaches, Chatham is the perfect destination for a calm beach vacation in New England.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores is a favorite beach destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts along the Gulf of Mexico. The white sandy beaches here are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. At the same time, the warm waters provide boating, fishing, and parasailing opportunities.

Visitors can also explore nearby attractions like Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge or take a dolphin cruise along the coast. For a taste of Southern cuisine, head to The Hangout or LuLu’s Gulf Shores for delicious seafood and live music. With its family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful beaches, Gulf Shores is an ideal destination for a fun-filled beach vacation in Alabama.

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