The Best East Coast Beach Towns for a Classic Summer Getaway

There are so many amazing beach towns on the East Coast, but don’t go thinking that all beach towns on the East Coast are the same. If you’re new to vacationing in this part of the country, understand that there’s a big, big difference between the vacation you’ll have at the tippy-top of Maine and the vacation you’ll have when you get way down into the Florida Keys—and every little beach town in the middle comes with its own unique identity as well.

So how do you pick, with so many options? 

I’d say, start with the classics, then start exploring the hidden gems around them. Soon enough, you’ll come across your own personal favorites.

Here are some of the best beach towns on the East Coast for a summer getaway.

I’m probably not doing myself a favor by talking about York, Maine, as much as I do. It’s a destination that even I wasn’t all that familiar with, originally, and now it’s one of those towns that makes its way into many of my recommendations lists. I should probably keep this little hidden gem to myself but—alas. I don’t know how to keep a good thing quiet.

York is a great pick for a summer getaway for a few reasons. For starters, it’s not as widely known as nearby Kennebunkport, which means slightly smaller crowds and a more laid-back atmosphere. That said, it’s still a popular destination, so don’t expect miles of empty sand during peak season.

Compared to some Maine destinations, like Bar Harbor, it has more of that beach destination feel. In Bar Harbor, things really feel “Maine.” Yes, you can find spits of sand here and there, but the focus isn’t on the beach itself. It’s on the whale watching, the rugged and rocky coasts of Acadia, and the town itself.

That’s not the case in York. The beach really is the highlight here, and you’re not going to find a ton much else to do. That’s great for travelers like me who really just want to sit on the sand, read a book, and then go get a drink when the day is done.

So, while I’ll endlessly praise those other Maine destinations, for a truly relaxing beach getaway, choose York.

I love Cape Cod and all its charm, and there’s no denying that this East Coast beach destination has become famous for good reason. It deserves it.

Sometimes, people (including me, before my first trip there) underestimate just how big Cape Cod is. It may be referred to as a singular destination, but this is one big peninsula. As such, you’re going to have to choose where exactly to set up base camp. Entire articles could be written on just that alone, comparing and contrasting all of Cape Cod’s little towns and villages.

However, I’d say, while Provincetown may be the most well-known destination on the Cape, try something a little less built up and more centrally located: like Chatham. This is a very quaint, classic New England fishing town, with all the tourist amenities you could need. It really embodies what Cape Cod is. Plus, it’s located right in the heart of Cape Cod, making it easy to explore the rest of the region, from the Cape Cod National Seashore to charming historic landmarks.

Okay, okay—so Charleston isn’t so much a town as it is a city, but it still has a beach and it still has a lot of the elements that many look for in a good beach destination: great food, plenty of options and fun things to do when you’re not laying out on the sand.

Along those lines, Charleston has so many points in its favor. It has tons of beautiful old hotels. It’s haunted aplenty (if that’s something you’re into). The food scene is spectacular. Then, the beaches are just a quick little drive away from the city center. Favorites include Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms.

If you want to explore Charleston but not necessarily stay there, you can even find a good handful of beach resorts on the nearby shoreline. Then drive into Charleston to enjoy everything the city offers for an afternoon or two, while actually keeping your main trip focused on the beach.

Tybee Island is somewhat similar and not all that far away. You can spend your days soaking up the city’s historic charm, acclaimed food scene, and famous Southern hospitality (not to mention its haunted reputation), then retreat to the beach whenever you’re ready for some sun and sand.

Plus, Tybee Island is far enough south that you really can visit for the majority of the year. Sure, will you be able to lie out all day during the middle of January? Maybe not. But you’re not going to be huddled up in your winter coat either.

There are a lot of East Coast beach destinations that have become associated with a certain level of prestige. Think Taylor Swift and all her celeb besties hanging out in her shoreside mansion, and the Kennedys and Bushes in their oceanside compounds.

Newport, Rhode Island, was a see-and-be-seen summer destination long before the phrase ever existed. Once a Gilded Age playground for America’s wealthiest families and widely considered the country’s first resort town, today it remains a favorite among history buffs, boaters, foodies, and shoppers alike.

As you plan your trip, try to catch one of Newport’s many fan-favorite fests, like the Newport Jazz Festival or the Newport Folk Festival.

I often recommend the Outer Banks to folks looking for a great East Coast vacation. You really can’t go wrong with any spot throughout the Outer Banks (your destination of choice will ultimately just depend on what it is you’re looking for in a beach town). When it comes to Nags Head specifically, though, it’s a perfect pick for families, including those families whose members include a furry friend or two. 

You’ll find lots of beach access and dog-friendly options. Make sure to visit the historic Jennette’s Pier, as well as Jockey’s Ridge State Park, where you’ll discover the tallest natural living sand dune system on the East Coast. It’s pretty cool, to say the least.

The destination is also rich with pirate lore and legends, which make for a great spooky story (or two!) to tell the kiddos over s’mores.

How could you write an article about the best beach towns on the East Coast and not mention Key West? Sure, it might not be for everyone, but it’s absolutely got a lot to offer and it’s one of those places you have to visit once—truly.

Whether you’re into history, literature, food, outdoor adventure, partying or just the beach, Key West delivers. Plus, you have the option of taking a truly stellar road trip from Miami (or elsewhere in Florida) to Key West via the Overseas Highway. 

Montauk is technically part of the Hamptons…but the vibe is very different. The Hamptons (which can be regarded as mostly Southampton and East Hampton) are pricey and where you expect to see celebs. Montauk, though adjacent, doesn’t have the same feel. You have to drive through both Southampton and East Hampton to reach Montauk, which sits out on the very point of the Long Island peninsula.

Once you’re there, you’ll find it’s more laid back. It’s great for surfing. There’s a fun food scene. There’s so much to explore beyond the beaches, including the Montauk Point Lighthouse (the oldest in New York State), Shadmoor State Park, and Camp Hero State Park.

Montauk may be overshadowed by the Hamptons, but it deserves its time in the limelight.