Discover the Best Coastal Destinations
Discover the Best Coastal Destinations
The “Luckiest Fishing Village” with emerald-green waters, white sands, and the bustling Destin Harbor Boardwalk. Famous for deep-sea fishing charters, Crab Island water parties, and a lively yet family-friendly coastal scene.
Cocoa Beach, just 5 miles south of Cape Canaveral and 20 miles from the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, is a prime spot for space enthusiasts. The city’s beaches are accessible through four parks—Alan Shepard Park, Sidney Fisher Park, Lori Wilson Park, and Robert P. Murkshe Memorial Park—each offering a mix of amenities like restrooms, showers, picnic pavilions, boardwalks, and more. Savor fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants, or charter a deep-sea fishing trip to reel in your own catch. Both visitors and residents praise the beaches’ cleanliness, with some even lucky enough to catch a distant rocket launch from Cape Canaveral while lounging on the shore.
A vibrant coastal gem with 60 miles of sandy beaches, featuring a bustling boardwalk lined with amusement rides, arcades, and seafood shacks. Perfect for families, it offers water parks, mini-golf, and lively nightlife, though summer crowds can be intense.
A surf culture hub with Swami’s Beach, the Self-Realization Fellowship gardens, and Moonlight State Beach. Known for its laid-back vibe, taco shops, and a perfect blend of beach and bohemian charm.
A lively summer destination with a bustling boardwalk, soft sandy shores, and the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom for concerts. Offers arcade fun, fireworks, and a festive atmosphere for families or groups.
A laid-back paradise with turquoise waters, Bean Point’s seclusion, and the historic City Pier. Offers biking, fresh seafood at Rod & Reel, and an untouched, old-Florida charm.
A picturesque waterfront town with tulip fields in spring, the Skagit River, and charming galleries. Perfect for boating, exploring Swinomish history, and enjoying a quiet, artsy coastal escape.
An upscale Gulf retreat with pristine beaches, the historic Naples Pier, and Fifth Avenue South’s chic dining. Offers eco-tours in the Everglades, golfing, and a sophisticated yet relaxed coastal experience.
A surf-centric town with historic Ventura Pier, the Mission San Buenaventura, and Channel Islands access. Offers downtown antique shopping, beach biking, and a relaxed, authentic coastal feel.
A jewel near San Diego with seals basking at La Jolla Cove, dramatic cliffs, and the Birch Aquarium. Perfect for kayaking, upscale shopping on Prospect Street, and enjoying postcard-worthy coastal scenery.
A celebrity-studded coast with dramatic cliffs, Zuma Beach, and the Getty Villa’s ancient art. Offers surfing at Surfrider Beach, hiking in Malibu Creek State Park, and a luxurious, scenic escape.
An idyllic summer haven with colorful gingerbread cottages, sandy beaches, and the dramatic Aquinnah Cliffs. Offers biking trails, fresh seafood at Menemsha, and a charming mix of relaxation and celebrity-spotting opportunities.
The gateway to Acadia National Park, featuring rugged coastlines, granite cliffs, and serene bays. Enjoy lobster shacks, whale-watching cruises, and hiking Cadillac Mountain for breathtaking sunrise views in a quaint New England setting.
A laid-back surfing destination with a funky, bohemian vibe, featuring a fishing pier and Morris Island Lighthouse views. Great for beachcombing, live music at local bars, and a casual escape near Charleston.
An artistic coastal town with rocky shores, the famous Motif No. 1 red fishing shack, and a vibrant gallery scene. Perfect for a quiet retreat with scenic harbor views, fresh lobster rolls, and a touch of New England charm.
If you have never been here before, you are in for a real treat. There are Key West attractions for everyone. Some of our most popular Key West tourist activities on the water include dolphin encounters, kayaking the backcountry, diving and snorkeling at Ft. Jefferson and the Dry Tortugas, or renting a boat at a Key West marina to explore on your own. On land, shopping, museums, art galleries, tours, theaters and more await you. Or you can simply relax in the sand at one of our Key West beaches, by the pool at your Key West hotel, or on Duval Street with a cocktail in hand.
Just south of our barrier island lies a pure, uninhabited nature preserve called Little Tybee Island. Often overlooked by those visiting the area, this hidden treasure is actually twice the size of Tybee Island and only accessible by boat.
A sunny beach town with a lively pier, beach volleyball courts, and upscale dining along Manhattan Beach Boulevard. Great for biking the Strand, surfing, and enjoying a chic Southern California vibe.
Famous for its quartz sand beaches, Siesta Key Village nightlife, and Point of Rocks snorkeling. Offers drum circles at sunset, kayaking, and a perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant energy.
Kiawah Island, roughly 25 miles south of Charleston, boasts 10 miles of stunning shoreline split between East Beach and West Beach. Most of the island’s beaches are private, reserved for property owners, their guests, and renters. That said, Beachwalker County Park on West Beach welcomes the public (with a parking fee) and offers a picnic area with grills, a boardwalk, and seasonal perks like beach chair and umbrella rentals, lifeguards, and outdoor showers. Golf lovers will find Kiawah Island especially appealing, thanks to its top-tier championship courses. Beyond the greens, visitors rave about sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, guided nature tours, biking, hiking, and a variety of other outdoor adventures.
An upscale beach town with a yacht-filled harbor, sandy shores like Balboa Peninsula, and the picturesque Balboa Island Ferry ride. Great for surfing, shopping at Fashion Island, and enjoying a glamorous coastal vibe.
A historic coastal gem on Amelia Island with Victorian homes, pristine beaches, and Fort Clinch State Park. Great for kayaking, golfing, and exploring a laid-back vibe with Southern flair.
A shelling paradise with the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, unspoiled beaches, and a quiet charm. Ideal for biking, kayaking through mangroves, and collecting seashells in a natural setting.
A quieter coastal haven with a mile-long boardwalk, pristine beaches, and a small-town feel. Known for tax-free shopping, excellent seafood restaurants like The Crab House, and a relaxed atmosphere ideal for couples or families seeking a break.
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Keep heading northwest from Sanibel Island, and you’ll arrive at Captiva Island, a stretch of land nearly 4.5 miles long. This island boasts three public beaches alongside several private ones managed by resorts. Captiva Beach, renowned for its stunning sunsets and romantic vibe, has limited parking, so get there early to snag a spot. Over at Turner Beach by Blind Pass, you’ll find prime fishing and shelling opportunities, but the strong currents rule out swimming. Don’t miss a meal at The Mucky Duck, a beloved English pub-style eatery perched right on Captiva Beach. For a dose of shopping, explore the charming boutiques along Andy Rosse Lane and in Chadwick’s Square.
A family-friendly haven with warm waters, The Wharf’s entertainment, and Gulf State Park’s nature trails. Offers fishing, dolphin cruises, and a welcoming coastal vibe with plenty of outdoor fun.
A Gulf Coast gem with casinos like Beau Rivage, fresh seafood shacks, and sandy beaches along the Mississippi Sound. Offers lighthouse tours, fishing charters, and a lively mix of relaxation and entertainment.
A quiet fishing village with Gulf sunsets, the Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge, and a slow-paced vibe. Ideal for clamming, art galleries, and escaping to a hidden coastal gem.
A historic Gulf Coast town with oak-lined streets, quiet beaches, and War Memorial Park. Perfect for sailing, exploring antebellum homes, and enjoying a small-town coastal retreat.
A family-friendly beach town with a bustling promenade, arcade games, and the Seaside Aquarium. Known for kite flying, clam digging, and a classic Oregon coast vibe with easy access to nearby trails.
Located a little more than 50 miles east of Orlando, Canaveral National Seashore attracts space fans and nature lovers alike thanks to its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and its 24 miles of beach habitat. The National Park Service offers free self-guided audio tours through its app. The seashore is home to more than 1,000 varieties of plants and 310 bird species. Past travelers enjoyed seeing birds, alligators and turtles on the drive to Canaveral's Playalinda Beach. Keep in mind that there's a clothing-optional section at the beach that's accessible from parking lot No. 13 in this area.
The “Fishing Capital of Texas” with Mustang Island beaches, the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center, and a funky vibe. Great for charter fishing, beach camping, and a relaxed coastal getaway.
The rugged “End of the World” with dramatic cliffs, the iconic Montauk Point Lighthouse, and expansive beaches. Ideal for surfing, deep-sea fishing, and enjoying a hip, laid-back scene at the tip of Long Island.
A charming seaside town dripping with Victorian architecture, offering pristine sandy beaches and a picturesque lighthouse. Known for birdwatching at the Cape May Migratory Bird Refuge, quaint bed-and-breakfasts, and a peaceful escape from urban bustle.
A quiet cove with a small-town feel, nearby hot springs at Sycamore Mineral Springs, and a scenic pier. Ideal for kayaking, relaxing on the beach, and enjoying a peaceful coastal retreat.
A wildlife-rich paradise with warm waters, Schlitterbahn Waterpark, and the South Padre Island Birding Center. Great for kiteboarding, sea turtle rescues, and enjoying a vibrant yet laid-back Gulf escape.
With 28 miles of coastline, Delaware is full of beautiful beaches and charming coastal towns. Mid-Atlantic families love the relaxed boardwalk in the seaside town of Bethany Beach, which is located about 130 miles east of Washington, D.C., and less than 15 miles north of Ocean City, Maryland. In Bethany, you'll find a park, mini-golf courses and plenty of relaxed restaurants for meals. Keep in mind that dogs aren't allowed on the beach or boardwalk during the busy summer season. Alcohol, smoking, fires, kites, tents and boating are always prohibited. What's more, the town hosts free live concerts, a farmers market and movie screenings during the summer months.
A luxurious coastal retreat with Gilded Age mansions like The Breakers, dramatic cliff walks along the Atlantic, and a bustling harbor. Perfect for sailing, history buffs, and those seeking scenic beauty with upscale dining options.
A surfing hotspot with golden sands, a lively pier, and stunning sunsets over the Intracoastal Waterway. Offers paddleboarding, fishing, and a friendly beach-town atmosphere just minutes from Wilmington.
A peaceful island retreat famous for its wild Chincoteague ponies, sandy beaches, and the historic Assateague Lighthouse. Perfect for kayaking through marshes, birdwatching, and enjoying fresh seafood in a tranquil, small-town atmosphere.
A serene barrier island with driftwood-strewn beaches, biking trails through maritime forests, and the historic Jekyll Island Club. Ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful coastal escape.
A surfing mecca with the lively Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, featuring roller coasters and arcade games. Offers Natural Bridges State Beach, redwood hikes, and a funky, laid-back college-town energy.
Known for dory boats launching from the beach and the towering Cape Kiwanda sand dune. Offers craft beer at Pelican Brewing, surfing, and a laid-back vibe with stunning Haystack Rock views.
Known for its vibrant nightlife, Art Deco architecture, and turquoise waters, Miami Beach offers a tropical Caribbean vibe with stunning beaches and a diverse cultural scene.
Known for sugar-white sands, the Pensacola Beach Pier, and nearby Fort Pickens history. Great for paddleboarding, Blue Angels air shows, and enjoying a laid-back beach vibe with Gulf breezes.
The gateway to the San Juan Islands with a bustling marina, whale-watching tours, and Mount Erie hikes. Great for seafood dining, kayaking, and soaking in rugged Pacific Northwest beauty.
A quaint oyster hub with a working waterfront, the Apalachicola Maritime Museum, and nearby St. George Island. Great for seafood feasts, kayaking, and soaking in authentic Gulf charm.
A quaint town with sandy beaches, the scenic Marginal Way cliff walk, and a thriving arts scene at the Ogunquit Playhouse. Offers a peaceful retreat with lobster dinners and charming seaside strolls.
A windsurfing hub with the Texas State Aquarium, Padre Island National Seashore, and bayfront beauty. Perfect for sailing, exploring the USS Lexington, and enjoying a lively Gulf Coast atmosphere.
A fishing paradise with quiet beaches, Grand Isle State Park, and Cajun culture. Ideal for surf fishing, birdwatching, and escaping to a remote, laid-back Gulf Coast retreat.
Though Massachusetts' renowned Cape Cod peninsula boasts lavish multimillion-dollar properties, budget-conscious visitors might opt for the serene, cost-effective beaches of the Outer Cape, close to Cape Cod National Seashore. Notable Cape Cod beaches worth exploring include Coast Guard Beach along the Atlantic, perfect for bird-watching and surfing, or Mayflower Beach on Cape Cod Bay, celebrated for its calm waters and stunning sunsets.
With its perfect weather, laid-back vibe, and beaches like La Jolla and Coronado, San Diego is a year-round haven for sun-seekers and surfers.
Home to the iconic Haystack Rock, this artsy town offers tide pools, rugged cliffs, and a vibrant gallery scene. Ideal for beachcombing, photography, and cozying up by a bonfire with Oregon’s dramatic coastline.
A serene barrier island with the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, Fort Gaines history, and tranquil shores. Perfect for biking, kayaking, and enjoying a quiet, nature-focused Gulf escape.
Famous for nightly sunset festivals at Pier 60, powdery sands, and frequent dolphin sightings from Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Perfect for water sports, beach volleyball, and a lively family-friendly atmosphere.
An artistic enclave with stunning coves like Victoria Beach, the Heisler Park cliff walk, and a thriving gallery scene. Great for snorkeling, plein air painting, and soaking in a bohemian beach vibe.
A historic beach town with Pleasure Pier rides, Victorian homes in the Strand District, and 32 miles of sand. Great for fishing, ghost tours, and soaking in a mix of history and coastal fun.
Known for its long, sandy shores stretching over 35 miles, this destination blends a lively oceanfront promenade with a relaxed vibe. Enjoy surfing, the iconic Neptune Statue, and nearby historic sites like Cape Henry Lighthouse, with a mix of family fun and quiet corners.
Just 20 minutes from Savannah, this rustic island offers sandy beaches, a charming lighthouse, and a laid-back vibe. Ideal for fishing off the pier, biking along the shore, and savoring Southern hospitality with a coastal twist.
A vibrant stretch with soft sands, the historic Don CeSar hotel, and beach bars like The Toasted Monkey. Great for parasailing, sunset strolls, and enjoying a mix of relaxation and nightlife.
A picturesque New England village with sandy beaches, scenic coastal walks like the Parsons Way, and historic charm. Known for its seafood, boutique shops, and a cozy vibe, especially beautiful in fall or winter.
Home to the iconic Morro Rock, a fishing village charm, and a bustling embarcadero with seafood spots. Offers kayaking in the estuary, birdwatching, and a laid-back vibe with stunning coastal views.
A whale-watching hotspot with dramatic cliffs, the world’s smallest harbor, and spouting horns along the shore. Ideal for charter boat tours, storm watching, and enjoying a rugged, untamed coastal beauty.
A fairytale village with white sand beaches, quaint cottages, and the scenic Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Known for its art galleries, wine tasting, and a romantic, dog-friendly atmosphere along the coast.
Experience one of Florida’s top beaches, where nightlife, shopping, sand, and sun meet a vibrant downtown nestled right along the shore. Stretching just 2 miles, Delray Beach stands out for its pristine cleanliness and easy access to nearby shops and eateries. Past visitors have highlighted the convenience of lifeguards and restrooms, along with the plentiful dining options scattered throughout the downtown strip.
A Victorian-era gem with Puget Sound views, historic Fort Worden, and a charming downtown of brick buildings. Perfect for sailing, exploring maritime history, and enjoying a quiet, cultured coastal retreat.
America’s oldest city blends old-world charm with beautiful beaches, featuring the Castillo de San Marcos fort, cobblestone streets, and Anastasia State Park. Great for history buffs, beachgoers, and those seeking a warm, cultural escape.
A rugged coastal spot with pumpkin patches in fall, Mavericks surf break, and peaceful beaches like Poplar Beach. Ideal for hiking coastal trails, horseback riding, and savoring fresh seafood.
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A spring break hotspot with 27 miles of white sand, Pier Park shopping, and St. Andrews State Park. Known for lively beach bars, snorkeling, and a high-energy vibe perfect for groups or adventurers.
Famous for clam digging and sandy dunes at Oceano Dunes SVRA, with a charming pier and monarch butterfly groves. Great for ATV adventures, wine tasting nearby, and a classic Central Coast experience.
Stretching across 13 miles of beaches, this barrier island is a perfect spot for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, appealing to both visitors and locals. If lounging on the sand all day isn’t your thing, Amelia Island offers a wealth of wildlife to discover while exploring its rivers, marshes, or biking trails like the Egans Creek Greenway. Be sure to soak in the island’s rich history, which dates back to the Indigenous Timucua people who first called it home. Since then, the island has switched hands repeatedly, with eight different flags officially raised over its shores. Ideal for young adults, couples, and families alike, Amelia Island also boasts golf, shopping, dining, spas, summer camps, music festivals, and more. Best of all, visitors rave about the beaches remaining blissfully uncrowded.
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Head 28 miles west from Tampa and you'll land in the barrier island community of Madeira Beach, with 2.5 miles of beaches facing out to the Gulf of Mexico. There's a variety of amenities including parking, restrooms and beach chair rentals. The southern tip of the beach is a hot spot for fishing, but there are also dozens of charter companies that can take you offshore for deep sea fishing to catch grouper, snapper and more. When it's time to eat, consider heading to John's Pass Village, a former fishing settlement that's now home to an array of shops and restaurants, covering plenty of ground from pizza to seafood. It's also possible to find relatively affordable accommodations right by the sea: casual options include the Cambria Madeira Beach Hotel and the Courtyard St. Petersburg Clearwater/Madeira Beach.
Fort Lauderdale offers a blend of beaches and boating, with 300 miles of inland waterways and 24 miles of picturesque coastline. Once you’ve soaked up the golden sands and palm trees, explore the upscale shops and fine dining along Las Olas Boulevard, enjoy a scenic gondola ride on a canal, or wander through a historic district. The Riverwalk, a favored spot, winds along the New River through downtown Fort Lauderdale, offering a charming path lined with restaurants, bars, parks, shops, and plenty of chances for outdoor activity.
A lively resort town with a famous boardwalk, casinos like Caesars, and sandy beaches. Perfect for nightlife, Steel Pier amusement rides, and a mix of relaxation and excitement, though it can feel busy and commercial.
A resort paradise with 12 miles of pristine beaches, world-class golf courses like Harbour Town, and lush nature trails. Offers dolphin-watching tours, bike paths, and a refined yet laid-back vibe perfect for relaxation or outdoor adventure.
A charming harbor town with serene beaches, the Gulfport Centennial Museum, and nearby Ship Island excursions. Offers seafood feasts, sailing, and a peaceful alternative to busier Gulf spots.
A stunning chain of barrier islands famous for wild horses roaming the beaches, historic lighthouses like Cape Hatteras, and windswept dunes. Ideal for nature lovers, with opportunities for kiteboarding, fishing, and exploring the Wright Brothers National Memorial.
Discover a charming town along the Mississippi coast, where you can explore the state's portion of Gulf Islands National Seashore, including Davis Bayou—a protected haven spanning over 400 acres. This coastal gem provides plenty of space for camping, boating, hiking, fishing, and biking. Another highlight is Front Beach, a stretch of white sand near the Ocean Springs yacht club, perfect for soaking in the shoreline. For a change of pace, visit the Charnley-Norwood House, a masterpiece crafted by famed architects Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright. When it’s time to rest, choose from cozy cottages or budget-friendly stays like Country Inn & Suites, Travelodge, or Holiday Inn Express.
A pristine Gulf escape with Tigertail Beach, mangrove kayaking, and the Ten Thousand Islands nearby. Ideal for shelling, boating, and enjoying a luxurious yet wild coastal retreat.
Nestled in the Florida Panhandle, Navarre is a relaxed, tourist-light destination boasting 12 miles of pristine beachfront, framed by Gulf Islands National Seashore and Navarre Beach Marine Park. Stroll along Navarre Beach Pier—the longest pier in Florida—at Navarre Beach, or venture to the Florida section of Gulf Islands National Seashore to swim or unwind on the white sands of Opal Beach. Within a 30-mile radius, must-see spots include the Gulf Breeze Zoo, home to over 1,000 animals from across the globe, and the historic 101-year-old Imogene Theater. For lodging, SpringHill Suites Navarre Beach features rooms with balconies offering views of the Gulf of Mexico or Santa Rosa Sound, plus complimentary breakfast, a pool, a lazy river, and a waterfront restaurant.
A quaint island with cobblestone streets, stunning shores, and iconic Brant Point Lighthouse. Known for whale-watching, boutique shopping, and a serene escape with upscale charm, ideal for a romantic or luxurious getaway.
Did you know Maine’s coastline actually surpasses California’s in length? Thanks to its jagged tidal shores, complete with coves, peninsulas, and islands, the New England state clocks in at nearly 3,500 miles. While the upscale Kennebunkport and Ogunquit beaches have their charm, consider visiting the under-the-radar Old Orchard Beach, often hailed as one of Maine’s finest. Located roughly 20 miles south of Portland, this 7-mile sandy stretch grows quieter the farther you wander from the pier. Just note—the water stays chilly all year long. Visitors of all ages can also enjoy Palace Playland, a beachfront amusement park featuring rides and a sprawling indoor arcade. For a gas-free trip, hop on Amtrak’s seasonal Downeaster train from Boston North Station or the Portland Transportation Center straight to Old Orchard Beach.
A festive beach town with soft sands, Gulf State Park’s trails, and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Offers dolphin cruises, beachfront concerts, and a warm, welcoming vibe perfect for families or spring breakers.
A classic beach getaway with a 3-mile boardwalk packed with carnival rides, saltwater taffy shops, and fried dough stands. Great for families with its arcades, mini-golf, and calm waves, though parking can be a challenge in peak season.
A breathtaking coastal haven with Cannery Row, the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium, and stunning Pacific views. Perfect for kayaking with sea otters, whale watching, and exploring the scenic 17-Mile Drive nearby.
A historic port town at the Columbia River’s mouth, with Victorian homes, the Astoria Column, and “Goonies” film sites. Great for riverfront walks, craft beer tasting, and exploring maritime heritage.
Boasting the world’s longest drivable beach at 28 miles, this spot offers kite festivals, cranberry bogs, and the Lewis and Clark trail. Perfect for horseback riding, beach driving, and a windswept coastal adventure.
A Mediterranean-inspired paradise with red-tiled roofs, Stearns Wharf, and pristine beaches like East Beach. Offers wine tasting in the Funk Zone, paddleboarding, and a sophisticated yet relaxed coastal experience.
A relaxed Gulf spot with Times Square’s beachfront shops, Lovers Key State Park, and sunset shrimp boat views. Great for fishing, paddleboarding, and unwinding with a casual coastal charm.
The “Surf City USA” with a vibrant pier, bonfire pits, and the International Surfing Museum. Perfect for catching waves, biking along the coast, and soaking in a classic beach-town atmosphere.
A quiet retreat with sandy beaches, rocky Nubble Lighthouse views, and a small-town feel. Features Short Sands and Long Sands beaches, perfect for relaxing walks, tide pooling, and enjoying classic Maine charm.