If you’re planning a sun filled beach trip these spots are some of the best beach towns in the USA perfect for an unforgettable vacation. The USA is full of quaint, picturesque coastal towns just waiting to be discovered and loved. Whatever vibe you’re looking for, there is a beach town calling your name.
There’s quiet, relaxing Mackinac Island in Michigan, where no cars are allowed on the island and time seems to slow down. Head south (all the way south!) to Key West, Florida for exciting water sports like parasailing or jet skiing, and then party the night away on trendy Duval street.
These are the best beach towns in USA to relax, explore, and find adventure.
One of the cutest beach towns in the US is Virginia’s Chincoteague Island. Located about two hours north of Virginia Beach, Chincoteague is a more affordable (and less crowded) option for travelers.
Chincoteague and its neighbor Assateague are a great mixture of nature and relaxing beaches. One of the best things to do in Chincoteague is to see a sunrise at the beach. While the sunsets are also gorgeous, to see the sunrise above the water is truly breathtaking. Since Chincoteague is not as well known as Virginia Beach or Ocean City, Maryland, the beaches are much less crowded!
There is plenty of nature to explore if you need a break from the beach. You can see a variety of birds but also the Assateague Ponies. These ponies are unique to the island and are the stars of the top annual festival – the Annual Pony Swim! This event is held in July to raise funds to take care of the herd.
One of the best things about visiting Chincoteague is the thirty-seven miles of beach! There are plenty of places to get away from the crowd. The affordability, beautiful beaches, and wonderful nature make Chincoteague one of the best beach towns in the US.
By Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler
Pismo Beach might be located along the Central California Coast, however, it looks a lot more like a typical Southern California beach town with its wide sandy beaches, beautiful pier, and a beautiful boardwalk with stores and restaurants.
Pismo Beach is great to visit at any time of the year thanks to the mild climate of Central California, however, winter might be a better time, if you are looking for a less crowded getaway. Some of the most popular activities in Pismo Beach are riding ATVs along Oceano Dunes, wildlife watching at Avila Beach, biking, and hiking.
If you decide to spend time in Pismo Beach, I also recommend visiting nearby San Luis Obispo, where you can visit museums, enjoy the beautiful down and hike one of the Seven Sisters, the dormant volcanic peaks that provide some of the best panoramic views of the area.
By Daria from The Discovery Nut
The mark of any charming beach town: soft sand and a laid back atmosphere. Located in South Carolina, in between Savannah and Charleston, Hilton Head is a barrier island. And it’s fairly small as far as beach towns are concerned – it spans 12 miles of beautiful shoreline. But its size is just part of the charm.
Hilton Head Island is known for its pristine beaches, golf, and coastal cuisine. And one of the favorite activities for any visitor: bike riding. Bikes are everywhere in Hilton Head. You’ll see entire families biking to dinner or to the beach. It’s the preferred way to get around and helps you feel at home with the slow pace of life on the island.
Speaking of dinner, don’t miss a stop at The Crazy Crab. It’s a fun experience and you’ll be treated to an adorable stroll around Harbour Town. Visit some shops and take in the casual marina vibe.
Spending time in Hilton Head will allow you to relax and slow down. It’s a destination worth the visit for the vibe alone. But of course, the incredible weather and gorgeous beaches don’t hurt either.
By Brittany from Family on Standby
Cannon Beach is a small city on the Oregon coast and is definitely one of the cutest , best beach towns in the US. Cannon Beach is most famously known for beautiful Haystack Rock which is a gorgeous 235-foot sea stack (rock formation) jutting out of the beach.
You can relax on the beach playing with your dog (yep- it’s dog friendly!) and take in the amazing views. Or during low tide you can walk right up to Haystack Rock and see all the amazing creatures in the tidepools below. Plus, from early-spring to mid-summer you can see Tufted Puffins on Haystack Rock! Cool right?!
While in Cannon Beach, be sure to walk Hemlock Street for yummy eateries and art galleries. And be sure to enjoy nearby Arch Cape known for its stunning arch formations on the beach!
Cannon Beach is perfect for a long relaxing stay or for an overnighter on an Oregon coast roadtrip. Either way, you must stay at one of these breathtaking Oregon coast Airbnbs!
By Jenessa from Destination Daydreamer
South Padre Island Texas is one of the best beach towns in the U.S and a gem of the Lone Star state. Located on the southern tip of Texas and as close to Mexico as visitors can get, South Padre is a picturesque Gulf Coast resort town.
This beach town boasts fun in the sun activities galore. Guests can spend the day soaking up sun rays along miles of public beaches with views of the turquoise blue Gulf of Mexico. Walk in the soft sand, swim, surf, try stand up paddle boarding, or horseback riding along the beach.
There are many adventure sport activities such as deep-sea fishing, parasailing, and jet skiing to try with local guiding outfits. During your stay, be sure to go on a dolphin watching tour! The island is great to visit year-round. Spring and summer make for seasonal tourist hot spots while fall and winter attracts guests wishing to escape the cold from the rest of the U.S.
South Padre Island has a range of accommodations for anyone on a budget. Enjoy Gulf of Mexico beachfront views from your hotel, condo, or apartment.
By Ashlee from The Happiness Function
Capitola is a charming little beach town in Santa Cruz county in Northern California. It is equally popular among locals and tourists for its relaxed vibe and good food.
Along the Capitola beach are many hotels and restaurants. The most famous of which is the Venetian for its vibrant colors and its setting along the beach.
You can visit the beach for as little or as long as you like. Many locals make it a day trip that wraps up with a hearty meal at one of the many beautiful cafes in Capitola. Like all of Northern California beaches, the water is cold in Capitola and the wind can be chilly. So it’s best to be prepared.
The best time to photograph the beach in California is at sunset for the vibrant colors in the sky. But a better time to photograph Capitola by the Venetian is at sunrise as the morning sun hits the beach.
By Jyoti from Story at Every Corner
Tucked into a beautiful section of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, sometimes called the Southern Outer Banks, the charming small town of Beaufort, NC is a gorgeous US beach town.
Some of the best things to do in Beaufort include strolling down picturesque Front Street and the nearby boardwalk, visiting the North Carolina Maritime Museum to learn local history (pirates are heavily featured), spotting wild horses on nearby Shackleford Banks, and exploring the Rachel Carson Reserve.
If you’re traveling with kids, a tour through the water via pirate ship is definitely worth trying out as well!Go a little further afield, and visiting Cape Lookout National Seashore (and climbing its beautiful lighthouse), as well as Fort Macon in Atlantic Beach, are both must-sees on a trip to Beaufort.
By Kate from Our Escape Clause
Anna Maria Island is one of the Florida Gulf Coast’s off the beaten path “secret” places. Savor and Old Florida getaway and experience phenomenal sugar sand beaches, fresh seafood, and one of the cutest beach towns in the US. Commercial development is restricted on the island so those ginormous condo buildings that line other Florida Gulf beaches are not found on AMI. That makes for a much more pleasant Florida beach vacation.
Actually there are three small beach towns on Anna Maria Island—Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, and Anna Maria Island. The beachiest shops, salt life vibes, and closest access to Bean Point—featuring the widest and whitest beach around—can be found in the beach town area of Anna Maria Island (along Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive).
Things to do in Anna Maria Island include beach sun and fun, abundant water activities, seeing dolphins and manatees, and amazing eating—including one of USA’s highest rated restaurants (Beach Bistro—try the lobster starters), a super quirky bakery (Ginny’s and Jane E’s—try the breakfast Cuban sandwich and/or a cinnamon roll), and dozens of other fun beach eateries.
By Charles McCool from McCool Travel
The state of Delaware isn’t every traveler’s first thought when it comes to the best beaches in America unless they’ve already visited Rehoboth Beach. Rehoboth Beach is the most adorable seaside town with clean, soft sand along the brilliant waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The town has won awards for its clean water, quaint main street, and traditional American boardwalk.
In Rehoboth Beach, you can easily bike or walk to and from the shops, family-owned restaurants, and day spas. Some of the best restaurants are The Cultured Pearl and Salt Air and there are local favorites like Nicola’s Pizza and Thrashers Fries on the boardwalk.
Smart development restrictions have helped Rehoboth Beach to maintain its charm. Instead of mammoth towers of condominiums, you’ll find cozy beach cottages, boutique hotels, and Rehoboth Beach Airbnb beach houses. These controls have kept Rehoboth Beach feeling like a cute beach town instead of an overrun city on the shoreline.
By Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting
One of the most charming beach towns that is a favorite destination in Key West in Florida. Key West is a part of an archipelago of islands off the coast of Florida called Florida Keys. The last key, the southernmost tip of the US, the historic tales, there is so much more to this small town.
Not only is the city charming, but the drive on the Overseas Highway to reach Key West is itself equally beautiful. It makes for a great Road trip from Miami to Key West.
Key West is famous for its natural beauty and picture perfect beaches- Smathers beach, Higgs beach, South beach to name a few. Besides enjoying the sun and sand there are a plethora of water activities to indulge in. Parasailing, jet ski are great for adventure seekers.
Florida Keys are home to one of the best coral reefs in the US. Snorkelling or taking a glass-bottom boat tour lets a glimpse into the colorful marine life. Evenings are best enjoyed by taking a cruise or watching the magical sunset at Mallory Square.
By Neha from Travel Melodies
One of the best beach towns in the US is a hidden gem on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. The tiny town of Cape Charles Virginia sits on the Chesapeake Bay and offers one of the most relaxed getaway destinations in the greater Washington DC region.
The town’s compact, walkable downtown is lined with cute shops and tasty restaurants. At one end of Main Street, a sandy beach welcomes visitors with free parking and no entrance fee. A unique LOVE sign, made from a giant tire, kayak, fishing traps, and seashells provides a perfect spot for a sunset photo. Adding to the fun, this is a golf cart friendly town so you can tool around in casual comfort. Be sure to treat yourself to a delicious treat from Brown Dog Ice Cream and a craft brew from Cape Charles Brewing. The Belle Haven Inn offers comfortable rooms and easy access to town and the beach.
By Julie from Fun in Fairfax VA
Looking for the best beach town in America? Then look no further than Mackinac Island, Michigan. Nestled between the upper and lower peninsulas, this island’s charm starts the minute you board your ferry to arrive. No cars are allowed on this island that is about eight miles around. You get around on foot, bike or horse and carriage. Pretty much everything is nestled in the downtown region, so you won’t have to go far for anything.
This island is the cutest beach town because it is unexpected. Highly ranked for being a top USA bucket list destination, Lake Huron that surrounds the island has offers crystal clear water that tricks you into thinking you are in the Caribbean!
What’s even more charming is that you feel like you are back in time, the streets are lined with fudge shops and local artisans and there is a lot of history brimming from the island. It looks like a Hallmark movie!
By Nicole from Bucket List Lists
Seal Beach in Southern California is a perfect picturesque beach town with a long pier from which you can sit and watch the surfers and a cute main street with plenty of shops and restaurants.
Try classic American food with a beachfront view at The Hangout Restaurant and Beach Bar or Mexican food at Taco Surf where the specialty is fish tacos. There are also bakeries and ice cream shops for a quick snack.
The shops have lots of beach-themed home decor, shells, wind chimes, and windmills. Plus boutiques sell the cutest swimsuits and beach dresses.
Although it’s technically in Orange County, Seal Beach is one of the top beaches in Los Angeles, with fewer crowds and direct beach access, so be sure to add it to your beach bucket list.
By Alanna from Periodic Adventures
Located in the Outer Banks of North Carolina is a charming little beach town named Duck. Home to less than 400 residents, this beautiful seaside town can grow to over 20,000 people in the summer. The main reason for its popularity resides in its 7 miles of wide and uncrowded beaches.
Beyond the beach, one of the main attractions in the Outer Banks is the extensive boardwalk through the town of Duck. The boardwalk is almost 1 mile long and takes you meandering over the water past dozens of shops and restaurants. Not only is it a pleasant stroll, but it also offers amazing views of the sunset. You’ll find in peak season there are multiple restaurants and bars along the boardwalk that offer live music and other outdoor entertainment.
If watersports are more your speed, you’ll find the Currituck Sound on the intercoastal side of Duck is perfect for you. The calm water makes it the perfect place to rent and use non-motorized or motorized watercraft, like paddle boards and kayaks. Whether you spend your time enjoying the beaches, walking the boardwalk, or partaking in the numerous watersports around, Duck is sure to keep you coming back for more!
By Julia from The Cure for Curiosity
Lahaina is an adorable beach town that can be found on the Hawaiian Island of Maui. Once a historic whaling village, today Lahaina is filled with tasty restaurants, boutique shops, bars and art galleries.
Home to one of Maui’s best beginner breaks, one of the best things to do in Lahaina is to take a surf lesson. After your morning surf session, stroll through the harbor and pick a boat tour take a sunset cruise. Lahaina looks beautiful from the water.
Another sight you can’t miss when visiting this historic Hawaiian town is the infamous banyan tree. Spanning almost an entire block, the giant banyan tree is the heartbeat of Lahaina.
After you’ve worked up an appetite shopping up and down Front Street, dine on the rooftop of Fleetwoods, Maui’s only rooftop bar. Oceanfront restaurants, breathtaking mountain scenery and a lively main drag are just a few of the reasons to visit this charming seaside town.
By Jess from I’m Jess Traveling
Destin, FL , located along the panhandle, is one of the most beautiful beaches in the USA. The powdered white sands and beautiful emerald water with calm surf are only found along this stretch of the Gulf of Mexico. This super soft white sand is amazing as a backdrop for pictures and/or for kids to build spectacular sandcastles. The warm waters are perfect for kids to swim and play. Older kids and adults will love snorkeling and scuba diving where so much wildlife is found along the jetties.
Destin has so many activities that there is definitely something for everyone from family travel to romantic getaways. If you are into local boutique type stores make sure you visit the quaint shopping area of The Market Shops Of Sandestin, located right outside of Baytowne Wharf.
The outside stores and extreme friendliness of the people will remind you of being in the Caribbean without ever leaving the USA. If you’re into something more adventurous, rent a boat and take a trip out to Crab Island. Crab Island, a sandbar in the bay, is where you will be able to relax, swim, snorkel, visit floating restaurants, and gather with friends and family to beat the summer heat.
Destin, FL is definitely a must visit if you are looking for a fun and cute beach within the United States. You will definitely be looking forward to your return visit before you even finish this beach vacation. What are you waiting for? Grab your camera, swimsuit, flip-flops, and book yourself one of the resorts along this stretch of beach.
By Tiffany from Mommy and Me Travels
Filled with history and charm, Tybee Island, Georgia is truly one of the best beach towns in the United States to fuel some travel inspiration.
The moment you set foot on Tybee Island, you will be able to tell how important this cozy town was to the United States military. A quick walk around to the area’s beautiful lighthouses and historic forts, especially at Fort Pulaski National Monument, will bring you back in time on this barrier island.
Make sure to stop in at the island’s museum where you can climb up to the roof to enjoy some amazing panoramic views of the cute town below. Tybee Island is also filled with boardwalks connecting all the cute town’s top spots like Mid Beach and North Beach.
The most scenic spot located on Tybee Island is the Tybee Beach Pier. As one of the cutest spots on the East Coast, you are not going to want to miss this lovely coastal town.
By Ellie from Ellie’s Travel Tips
Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Kona is the most popular beach town on the island. The area is full of beautiful beaches and a cute town with tons to explore.
The white sand beach of Makalawena Beach is one of the prettiest beaches on the island. Hidden within a cove of tidepools, you’ll love relaxing with a book on the beach or spotting animals, such as crabs, small fishes, and even sea turtles.
Along Ali’i Drive, the town’s main thoroughfare, you’ll find some of the most popular sights in Kona, including Hulihe’e Palace. Hulihe’e Palace was once the summer home of Hawaiian royalty, including King Kamehameha III, Queen Liliuokalani, and King Kalakaua and his wife, Queen Kapiolani. The palace was built from lava rock by John Adams Kuakini in 1838 and is now a museum with artifacts from the reign of King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani. On some Sundays, you might catch a hula performance on the lawn and a celebration of Hawaiian culture.
Ali’i Drive is also home to Kona Farmer’s Market. Here you’ll find as many as 40 different vendors selling local goods including fruits and vegetables, flowers, and souvenirs, such as Hawaiian wood carvings, paintings, and more. It is open Wednesdays through Sundays between 7am and 4pm.
Be sure to visit Kona for the best beach town experience off of the US mainland.
By Constance from The Adventures of Panda Bear
Narragansett is a charming coastal town in Rhode Island, aptly nicknamed ‘the Ocean State.’ Nestled in the southeastern corner of the state, Narragansett has a little bit for everyone. There are countless beaches, all with soft sand and gentle waves. Well-placed bars and restaurants offer stunning ocean views and ample opportunities for the perfect photo.
Narragansett Town Beach is the state’s most popular with younger generations and Salty Brine State Beach is ideal for families. Both have bathroom facilities and food options nearby.
Rent a kayak or learn to SUP on Narrow River if you’re looking for more active activities – you can often find SUP yoga on Narrow River as well!
For breakfast, no place is better than Crazy Burger, which is vegetarian/vegan friendly, BYOB if you want mimosas. For lunch or dinner, Coast Guard House is slightly more upscale and offers spectacular views and fresh, local seafood. The Mew’s Tavern offers over 69 beers on tap and, though it’s located further inland, is a great rainy day option for a bite to eat and a pint.
Book accommodation in advance, especially if visiting during the summer season. Narragansett is less than an hour away from Providence, and also an easy day trip from Boston.
By Jade from The Migrant Yogi
Travel planning shouldn't be stressful, but with life these days getting busier and busier, it…
Along a hiking trail in the middle of the forest lies a ruined stone house…
Why should someone use a travel agent in 2021? When asking that question I still…
Arizona is one of the most historic and naturally beautiful states in the United States.…
When the sun comes out, so do we. Summer means traveling to new places, soaking…
Arizona is a state renowned for its wide open, rugged, and untamed landscapes. Adventure-lovers come…
View Comments
I have been to many of these beaches and can only you have never been to the New Jersey beaches. Our beaches are some of the best in the country.