While the United States is known for many different things, its various and diverse beach towns always manage to make headlines. From the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean in south Florida to the deep blue Pacific on the west coast, the States has so many different options and scenes for every beach lover. Whether you’re looking to take it slow and catch some waves in Los Angeles or prefer to stay out of the water and enjoy the breeze in Nantucket, the US should be at the top of your list when planning your next beachside vacation. In order to help you prepare, we’ve put together a list of our favorite spots so that you can have the best time possible! That being said, here are our picks for the 10 best beach towns in America.
- Santa Barbara
Located only about 80 miles north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, CA comes in as our number one pick for the best beach towns in America for an abundance of reasons. This coastal town has incredible dining, renowned wine tasting, and sandy beaches that are great for soaking up the sun and watching the waves roll in. Though Santa Barbara has parts that are relatively quiet and slow, the popular Funk Zone is great for meeting up with friends for a drink or hitting the town for a late night. When it comes to food, don’t miss out on Milk and Honey, Finney’s Crafthouse, or Bettina for dinner. If you’re looking for something a bit fancier, Sushi Bar in Montecito just earned a Michelin Star, meaning you’re sure to be in for a treat. Also, while the pier might be a bit touristy, check out Deep Sea Winery for some incredible vino with an even more incredible view! 2. Cannon Beach
From foggy mornings admiring the massive Haystack Rock to walking trails and exploring old lighthouses, Cannon Beach, OR is a different kind of beach town than you may be used to. For one, Coastal Oregon is generally known to be rather cloudy and dreary most of the year, however, this atmosphere provides a unique experience that is unlike any other. Plus, if you visit in the summer or fall, you are sure to see at least one sunny day or afternoon, giving you the best of both worlds so you soak up all that this magical and mysterious place has to offer. Though it is small, Cannon Beach has recently become quite the popular spot for visitors and tourists given its breathtaking beauty and abundant sea life. Make sure to keep an eye on the tide charts so that you can experience exploring the mind-blowing tide pools on Arcadia Beach. 3. St. Augustine
Said to be the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is one of Florida’s most unique beach towns. The beaches are very soft and sandy, and the Atlantic Ocean is great for swimming. Some of the more popular beaches include St. Augustine Beach and Crescent Beach, while the historic Castillo de San Marcos Spanish stone fortress boasts some breathtaking views of the St. Augustine Inlet. 4. Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a special California beach town located in the Monterey Peninsula that is just as charming as its name makes it sound. If you’re into museums and leaning more into the historical side of travel, Carmel has lots of options including the famous Carmel Mission. The town’s main center is literally something out of a storybook, featuring fairytale-like cottages and village-like storefronts and streets. While you can enjoy soaking up some sun on the beach in the summertime, Carmel tends to be on the chillier side. However, they have some of the most incredible golf courses on the coast for those who are interested in playing a solid game. 5. Block Island
Block Island lies just south of mainland Rhode Island, making it isolated enough without being inaccessible. This little beach town is perhaps most famous for its Southeast Lighthouse, which is an 1800s red-brick lighthouse that sits on top of the stunning Mohegan Bluffs. The rocky beach below these clay bluffs is quite a sight to see, and it is worth adding this experience to your bucket list. Another popular and more sandy beach on Block Island is Crescent Beach which sits on the east coast of the island. In addition, there are other lighthouses to explore, as well as the Sachem Pond which is known for its abundant array of birds.
See more about - The 10 Best North American Log Cabin Rentals To Experience In 2021
- Ogunquit
With a local population that is under 1,000, Ogunquit is one of the smallest yet most spectacular beach towns on our list. Sitting on the southern coast of Maine, Ogunquit has dreamy beaches with grassy dunes that are beyond peaceful and relaxing. Many travel bloggers have actually dubbed Ogunquit as one of the prettiest towns in Maine, meaning it is definitely worth checking out despite its very small and quaint atmosphere. Between the dramatic, rocky cliffs and the colonial-style architecture, Ogunquit truly feels out of this world, let alone out of the United States. Despite its small population, Ogunquit has also made a name for itself as a great foodie destination. Some of their more popular restaurants include The Crooked Pine and That Place in Ogunquit. 7. Key West
Known for having some of the most beautiful sunsets in the country, Key West has great food, beautiful coral reefs, and a rich history. From spotting Ernest Hemingway’s six-toed cats to finding the best key lime pie on the island, this tropical beach town will have you forgetting what day and time it is as you immerse yourself in the laidback lifestyle that permeates this special place. Stay at one of the many vintage bed and breakfasts or go for one of the more luxurious hotels like the Sunset Key Cottages or the Ocean Key Resort & Spa. While there are a couple of really nice beaches, Key West is more known for its incredible snorkeling and scuba diving since most of the beaches are very rocky and rough. They also have some fun nightlife that is somewhat reminiscent of what you might find in New Orleans. 8. Santa Monica
Santa Monica, CA is the perfect beach town for those looking to be out and about during their trip. This beachside LA town is far from sleepy, and you’ll find that you have no shortage of activities and things to do. From posting up on the large stretches of sand to checking out all of the nostalgic rides and games on the iconic Santa Monica Pier, your days in Santa Monica will be filled to the brim. After catching the legendary sunsets at Palisades Park, head back to your hotel and freshen up. Though there are lots of options for accommodation in Santa Monica, some of our favorites are the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows and The Huntley. The Huntley boasts the stunning Penthouse restaurant that has nearly 360-degree views of the ocean and the city, while the Fairmont Miramar is connected to the famous nightlife hotspot, The Bungalow. Spend the rest of your evening at The Bungalow or one of Santa Monica’s other amazing bars like Lanea, ONYX Bar, or The Craftsman. 9. Nantucket
Nantucket is a tiny and pretty isolated island that resides right off the coast of Massachusetts. Since it is located on the northeast coast, it can get rather frigid in the winter, making it a popular summer destination for most visitors. The dune-backed beaches look like something straight out of a rom-com that your girlfriend is obsessed with, making this quaint island perfect for a romantic getaway. Though you could easily have a great time with the boys on this island, it isn’t the first place that you would probably think to go for that kind of experience. The cobblestone streets are wonderful to explore, almost making you feel as though you are outside of the United States in some ways. Check out one of their famous coastal restaurants like Cru or Sayle’s Seafood for some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever enjoy. 10. Malibu
Located just a bit north of Santa Monica right on PCH is the iconic and celebrity-studded beach town of Malibu. Though it may not seem like it is that far from the rest of Los Angeles, Malibu truly has a scene and energy that is completely of its own. Whether you’re looking to take up surfing or spend your days hiking Malibu’s various trails, this quiet beach town is a great getaway for those looking to relax and restore in one of the west coast’s most iconic spots. Also, Malibu is known for being notoriously dog-friendly when compared to the rest of Los Angeles, so don’t be afraid to bring your furry family members along! After spending your days focusing on your body and mind, settle in for a nice dinner at Geoffrey’s or Nobu for delicious seafood and a view for the books. While the nightlife isn’t necessarily abundant in Malibu, enjoy a nightcap in your hotel. If you manage to snag a room with an ocean view (which isn’t too difficult to find in Malibu) post up in your hotel robe as you sip on a nice Scotch while listening to the waves crashing against the shore.
See more about - The 8 Most Superior Luxury Hotels To Stay When In Los Angeles
While the United States is known for many different things, its various and diverse beach towns always manage to make headlines. From the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean in south Florida to the deep blue Pacific on the west coast, the States has so many different options and scenes for every beach lover. Whether you’re looking to take it slow and catch some waves in Los Angeles or prefer to stay out of the water and enjoy the breeze in Nantucket, the US should be at the top of your list when planning your next beachside vacation. In order to help you prepare, we’ve put together a list of our favorite spots so that you can have the best time possible! That being said, here are our picks for the 10 best beach towns in America.
- Santa Barbara
Located only about 80 miles north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, CA comes in as our number one pick for the best beach towns in America for an abundance of reasons. This coastal town has incredible dining, renowned wine tasting, and sandy beaches that are great for soaking up the sun and watching the waves roll in. Though Santa Barbara has parts that are relatively quiet and slow, the popular Funk Zone is great for meeting up with friends for a drink or hitting the town for a late night. When it comes to food, don’t miss out on Milk and Honey, Finney’s Crafthouse, or Bettina for dinner. If you’re looking for something a bit fancier, Sushi Bar in Montecito just earned a Michelin Star, meaning you’re sure to be in for a treat. Also, while the pier might be a bit touristy, check out Deep Sea Winery for some incredible vino with an even more incredible view! 2. Cannon Beach
From foggy mornings admiring the massive Haystack Rock to walking trails and exploring old lighthouses, Cannon Beach, OR is a different kind of beach town than you may be used to. For one, Coastal Oregon is generally known to be rather cloudy and dreary most of the year, however, this atmosphere provides a unique experience that is unlike any other. Plus, if you visit in the summer or fall, you are sure to see at least one sunny day or afternoon, giving you the best of both worlds so you soak up all that this magical and mysterious place has to offer. Though it is small, Cannon Beach has recently become quite the popular spot for visitors and tourists given its breathtaking beauty and abundant sea life. Make sure to keep an eye on the tide charts so that you can experience exploring the mind-blowing tide pools on Arcadia Beach. 3. St. Augustine
Said to be the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is one of Florida’s most unique beach towns. The beaches are very soft and sandy, and the Atlantic Ocean is great for swimming. Some of the more popular beaches include St. Augustine Beach and Crescent Beach, while the historic Castillo de San Marcos Spanish stone fortress boasts some breathtaking views of the St. Augustine Inlet. 4. Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a special California beach town located in the Monterey Peninsula that is just as charming as its name makes it sound. If you’re into museums and leaning more into the historical side of travel, Carmel has lots of options including the famous Carmel Mission. The town’s main center is literally something out of a storybook, featuring fairytale-like cottages and village-like storefronts and streets. While you can enjoy soaking up some sun on the beach in the summertime, Carmel tends to be on the chillier side. However, they have some of the most incredible golf courses on the coast for those who are interested in playing a solid game. 5. Block Island
Block Island lies just south of mainland Rhode Island, making it isolated enough without being inaccessible. This little beach town is perhaps most famous for its Southeast Lighthouse, which is an 1800s red-brick lighthouse that sits on top of the stunning Mohegan Bluffs. The rocky beach below these clay bluffs is quite a sight to see, and it is worth adding this experience to your bucket list. Another popular and more sandy beach on Block Island is Crescent Beach which sits on the east coast of the island. In addition, there are other lighthouses to explore, as well as the Sachem Pond which is known for its abundant array of birds.
See more about - The 10 Best North American Log Cabin Rentals To Experience In 2021
- Ogunquit
With a local population that is under 1,000, Ogunquit is one of the smallest yet most spectacular beach towns on our list. Sitting on the southern coast of Maine, Ogunquit has dreamy beaches with grassy dunes that are beyond peaceful and relaxing. Many travel bloggers have actually dubbed Ogunquit as one of the prettiest towns in Maine, meaning it is definitely worth checking out despite its very small and quaint atmosphere. Between the dramatic, rocky cliffs and the colonial-style architecture, Ogunquit truly feels out of this world, let alone out of the United States. Despite its small population, Ogunquit has also made a name for itself as a great foodie destination. Some of their more popular restaurants include The Crooked Pine and That Place in Ogunquit. 7. Key West
Known for having some of the most beautiful sunsets in the country, Key West has great food, beautiful coral reefs, and a rich history. From spotting Ernest Hemingway’s six-toed cats to finding the best key lime pie on the island, this tropical beach town will have you forgetting what day and time it is as you immerse yourself in the laidback lifestyle that permeates this special place. Stay at one of the many vintage bed and breakfasts or go for one of the more luxurious hotels like the Sunset Key Cottages or the Ocean Key Resort & Spa. While there are a couple of really nice beaches, Key West is more known for its incredible snorkeling and scuba diving since most of the beaches are very rocky and rough. They also have some fun nightlife that is somewhat reminiscent of what you might find in New Orleans. 8. Santa Monica
Santa Monica, CA is the perfect beach town for those looking to be out and about during their trip. This beachside LA town is far from sleepy, and you’ll find that you have no shortage of activities and things to do. From posting up on the large stretches of sand to checking out all of the nostalgic rides and games on the iconic Santa Monica Pier, your days in Santa Monica will be filled to the brim. After catching the legendary sunsets at Palisades Park, head back to your hotel and freshen up. Though there are lots of options for accommodation in Santa Monica, some of our favorites are the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows and The Huntley. The Huntley boasts the stunning Penthouse restaurant that has nearly 360-degree views of the ocean and the city, while the Fairmont Miramar is connected to the famous nightlife hotspot, The Bungalow. Spend the rest of your evening at The Bungalow or one of Santa Monica’s other amazing bars like Lanea, ONYX Bar, or The Craftsman. 9. Nantucket
Nantucket is a tiny and pretty isolated island that resides right off the coast of Massachusetts. Since it is located on the northeast coast, it can get rather frigid in the winter, making it a popular summer destination for most visitors. The dune-backed beaches look like something straight out of a rom-com that your girlfriend is obsessed with, making this quaint island perfect for a romantic getaway. Though you could easily have a great time with the boys on this island, it isn’t the first place that you would probably think to go for that kind of experience. The cobblestone streets are wonderful to explore, almost making you feel as though you are outside of the United States in some ways. Check out one of their famous coastal restaurants like Cru or Sayle’s Seafood for some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever enjoy. 10. Malibu
Located just a bit north of Santa Monica right on PCH is the iconic and celebrity-studded beach town of Malibu. Though it may not seem like it is that far from the rest of Los Angeles, Malibu truly has a scene and energy that is completely of its own. Whether you’re looking to take up surfing or spend your days hiking Malibu’s various trails, this quiet beach town is a great getaway for those looking to relax and restore in one of the west coast’s most iconic spots. Also, Malibu is known for being notoriously dog-friendly when compared to the rest of Los Angeles, so don’t be afraid to bring your furry family members along! After spending your days focusing on your body and mind, settle in for a nice dinner at Geoffrey’s or Nobu for delicious seafood and a view for the books. While the nightlife isn’t necessarily abundant in Malibu, enjoy a nightcap in your hotel. If you manage to snag a room with an ocean view (which isn’t too difficult to find in Malibu) post up in your hotel robe as you sip on a nice Scotch while listening to the waves crashing against the shore.
See more about - The 8 Most Superior Luxury Hotels To Stay When In Los Angeles
While the United States is known for many different things, its various and diverse beach towns always manage to make headlines. From the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean in south Florida to the deep blue Pacific on the west coast, the States has so many different options and scenes for every beach lover.
Whether you’re looking to take it slow and catch some waves in Los Angeles or prefer to stay out of the water and enjoy the breeze in Nantucket, the US should be at the top of your list when planning your next beachside vacation. In order to help you prepare, we’ve put together a list of our favorite spots so that you can have the best time possible! That being said, here are our picks for the 10 best beach towns in America.
1. Santa Barbara
Located only about 80 miles north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, CA comes in as our number one pick for the best beach towns in America for an abundance of reasons. This coastal town has incredible dining, renowned wine tasting, and sandy beaches that are great for soaking up the sun and watching the waves roll in. Though Santa Barbara has parts that are relatively quiet and slow, the popular Funk Zone is great for meeting up with friends for a drink or hitting the town for a late night. When it comes to food, don’t miss out on Milk and Honey, Finney’s Crafthouse, or Bettina for dinner. If you’re looking for something a bit fancier, Sushi Bar in Montecito just earned a Michelin Star, meaning you’re sure to be in for a treat. Also, while the pier might be a bit touristy, check out Deep Sea Winery for some incredible vino with an even more incredible view!
2. Cannon Beach
From foggy mornings admiring the massive Haystack Rock to walking trails and exploring old lighthouses, Cannon Beach, OR is a different kind of beach town than you may be used to. For one, Coastal Oregon is generally known to be rather cloudy and dreary most of the year, however, this atmosphere provides a unique experience that is unlike any other. Plus, if you visit in the summer or fall, you are sure to see at least one sunny day or afternoon, giving you the best of both worlds so you soak up all that this magical and mysterious place has to offer.
Though it is small, Cannon Beach has recently become quite the popular spot for visitors and tourists given its breathtaking beauty and abundant sea life. Make sure to keep an eye on the tide charts so that you can experience exploring the mind-blowing tide pools on Arcadia Beach.
3. St. Augustine
Said to be the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is one of Florida’s most unique beach towns. The beaches are very soft and sandy, and the Atlantic Ocean is great for swimming. Some of the more popular beaches include St. Augustine Beach and Crescent Beach, while the historic Castillo de San Marcos Spanish stone fortress boasts some breathtaking views of the St. Augustine Inlet.
4. Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a special California beach town located in the Monterey Peninsula that is just as charming as its name makes it sound. If you’re into museums and leaning more into the historical side of travel, Carmel has lots of options including the famous Carmel Mission. The town’s main center is literally something out of a storybook, featuring fairytale-like cottages and village-like storefronts and streets. While you can enjoy soaking up some sun on the beach in the summertime, Carmel tends to be on the chillier side. However, they have some of the most incredible golf courses on the coast for those who are interested in playing a solid game.
5. Block Island
Block Island lies just south of mainland Rhode Island, making it isolated enough without being inaccessible. This little beach town is perhaps most famous for its Southeast Lighthouse, which is an 1800s red-brick lighthouse that sits on top of the stunning Mohegan Bluffs. The rocky beach below these clay bluffs is quite a sight to see, and it is worth adding this experience to your bucket list. Another popular and more sandy beach on Block Island is Crescent Beach which sits on the east coast of the island. In addition, there are other lighthouses to explore, as well as the Sachem Pond which is known for its abundant array of birds.
See more about - The 10 Best North American Log Cabin Rentals To Experience In 2021
6. Ogunquit
See more about - The 10 Best North American Log Cabin Rentals To Experience In 2021
With a local population that is under 1,000, Ogunquit is one of the smallest yet most spectacular beach towns on our list. Sitting on the southern coast of Maine, Ogunquit has dreamy beaches with grassy dunes that are beyond peaceful and relaxing. Many travel bloggers have actually dubbed Ogunquit as one of the prettiest towns in Maine, meaning it is definitely worth checking out despite its very small and quaint atmosphere.
Between the dramatic, rocky cliffs and the colonial-style architecture, Ogunquit truly feels out of this world, let alone out of the United States. Despite its small population, Ogunquit has also made a name for itself as a great foodie destination. Some of their more popular restaurants include The Crooked Pine and That Place in Ogunquit.
7. Key West
Known for having some of the most beautiful sunsets in the country, Key West has great food, beautiful coral reefs, and a rich history. From spotting Ernest Hemingway’s six-toed cats to finding the best key lime pie on the island, this tropical beach town will have you forgetting what day and time it is as you immerse yourself in the laidback lifestyle that permeates this special place.
Stay at one of the many vintage bed and breakfasts or go for one of the more luxurious hotels like the Sunset Key Cottages or the Ocean Key Resort & Spa. While there are a couple of really nice beaches, Key West is more known for its incredible snorkeling and scuba diving since most of the beaches are very rocky and rough. They also have some fun nightlife that is somewhat reminiscent of what you might find in New Orleans.
8. Santa Monica
Santa Monica, CA is the perfect beach town for those looking to be out and about during their trip. This beachside LA town is far from sleepy, and you’ll find that you have no shortage of activities and things to do. From posting up on the large stretches of sand to checking out all of the nostalgic rides and games on the iconic Santa Monica Pier, your days in Santa Monica will be filled to the brim.
After catching the legendary sunsets at Palisades Park, head back to your hotel and freshen up. Though there are lots of options for accommodation in Santa Monica, some of our favorites are the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows and The Huntley. The Huntley boasts the stunning Penthouse restaurant that has nearly 360-degree views of the ocean and the city, while the Fairmont Miramar is connected to the famous nightlife hotspot, The Bungalow. Spend the rest of your evening at The Bungalow or one of Santa Monica’s other amazing bars like Lanea, ONYX Bar, or The Craftsman.
9. Nantucket
Nantucket is a tiny and pretty isolated island that resides right off the coast of Massachusetts. Since it is located on the northeast coast, it can get rather frigid in the winter, making it a popular summer destination for most visitors. The dune-backed beaches look like something straight out of a rom-com that your girlfriend is obsessed with, making this quaint island perfect for a romantic getaway.
Though you could easily have a great time with the boys on this island, it isn’t the first place that you would probably think to go for that kind of experience. The cobblestone streets are wonderful to explore, almost making you feel as though you are outside of the United States in some ways. Check out one of their famous coastal restaurants like Cru or Sayle’s Seafood for some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever enjoy.
10. Malibu
Located just a bit north of Santa Monica right on PCH is the iconic and celebrity-studded beach town of Malibu. Though it may not seem like it is that far from the rest of Los Angeles, Malibu truly has a scene and energy that is completely of its own. Whether you’re looking to take up surfing or spend your days hiking Malibu’s various trails, this quiet beach town is a great getaway for those looking to relax and restore in one of the west coast’s most iconic spots. Also, Malibu is known for being notoriously dog-friendly when compared to the rest of Los Angeles, so don’t be afraid to bring your furry family members along!
After spending your days focusing on your body and mind, settle in for a nice dinner at Geoffrey’s or Nobu for delicious seafood and a view for the books. While the nightlife isn’t necessarily abundant in Malibu, enjoy a nightcap in your hotel. If you manage to snag a room with an ocean view (which isn’t too difficult to find in Malibu) post up in your hotel robe as you sip on a nice Scotch while listening to the waves crashing against the shore.
See more about - The 8 Most Superior Luxury Hotels To Stay When In Los Angeles
See more about - The 8 Most Superior Luxury Hotels To Stay When In Los Angeles
