:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-hilton-head-sc-ECBEACHTOWNS0424-e86de01ca47c427aa07b8cd41ae498c9.jpg?w=1500&resize=1500,1000&ssl=1 "12 Greatest Seashore Cities on the East Coast")
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/TAL-hilton-head-sc-ECBEACHTOWNS0424-e86de01ca47c427aa07b8cd41ae498c9.jpg)
From the rocky shoreline of New England all the way down to the flat seashores of the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida, the Jap Seaboard is a area that shines its brightest within the hotter months. As temperatures improve, many vacationers make the journey to their favourite East Coast seaside cities to take in the restorative, nostalgic nature that comes with salt water, sand, and good old style summer season enjoyable.
“East Coast seaside cities have a sure distinct attraction that it’s a must to expertise your self to completely embrace,” says Katie Cosgrove, the director of gross sales and advertising at Ashore Resort & Seashore Membership in Ocean Metropolis, Maryland. “These cities are usually extra laid again, with an attraction for each kind of traveler — whether or not it is households, seaside week teams in search of nightlife, {couples} in search of a getaway, and everybody in between.” Plus, she provides, most of those locations are comparatively near bigger cities — like Savannah, Richmond, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and New York Metropolis — which “makes for a fast and simple getaway for city dwellers.”
With summer season proper across the nook, we had a number of native specialists, together with Cosgrove, share their picks for the perfect seaside cities on the East Coast. See which of them made the minimize under.
Kennebunkport, Maine
DenisTangneyJr/Getty Photos
Based on Natalie Kurtzman, a journey advisor at Fora, you’ll need to head to Maine for “extensive sandy seashores, wonderful meals (selfmade blueberry pie and recent lobster are a New England ceremony of passage), and charming cities.” Whereas there are a number of seaside cities to select from, Kennebunkport is her prime decide. She recommends beginning your trip by checking into Hidden Pond, the place you possibly can keep in cottages and bungalows, after which spending a day at Goose Rocks Seashore. “A go to to the realm requires a cease at Mabel’s Lobster Claw for — you guessed it — lobster and their award-winning blueberry pie,” she provides.
Newport, Rhode Island
shunyufan/Getty Photos
“Newport is crammed with wonderful historical past and unimaginable meals,” says Caroline Broome, founder and designer of Tillie, a Palm Seashore-based vogue model. Whereas some seaside cities veer towards cute and kitschy, Newport is all concerning the glamor; for those who’ve watched The Gilded Age on HBO, it’s possible you’ll keep in mind the mansions, the cocktail events, and the entire social drama between Manhattan’s elite as they loved summers in Newport. Trendy-day Newport nonetheless holds onto that degree of glitz, with a number of luxurious resorts welcoming vacationers to the seaside vacation spot. Broome recommends staying on the historic Citadel Hill Inn, however there’s additionally The Chanler at Cliff Stroll, The Brenton Lodge, and The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Assortment. Throughout your keep, make sure you verify off the entire traditional Newport actions: Go crusing, discover the three.5-mile scenic Cliff Stroll, and go to the Worldwide Tennis Corridor of Fame.
Montauk, New York
MikeRega/Getty Photos
As New Yorkers know, the prepare trip out to the very finish of Lengthy Island may be nerve-racking (notably for those who’re becoming a member of the throngs of individuals leaving Manhattan on a Friday). Montauk, nonetheless, is well worth the four-hour trip and ensuing problem — and there are even pockets of quiet, if you already know the place to look. It’s a bit extra rugged than a number of the different cities within the Hamptons, and I discover that to be a big a part of its attraction. There’s a rustic-meets-luxury attraction to the city, which you’ll expertise at Crow’s Nest, a bohemian lodge with each rooms and cottages. Or, if you wish to take it up a notch, spend a protracted weekend at Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, the place 158 rooms and suites overlook the ocean. If it’s your first day out East, I additionally suggest visiting the Montauk Level Lighthouse, indulging in a lobster roll at Duryea’s, and getting some dinner necessities at Gosman’s Fish Market.
Chatham, Massachusetts
benedek/Getty Photos
“Chatham feels so nostalgic, with the night bandstand concert events and the attraction of Outdated Cape Cod,” says Kurtzman. “I hung out in Chatham as a baby and have a number of the fondest recollections at Oyster Pond Seashore and strolling Important Avenue.” If you happen to’re touring with a household or a bigger group, it’s possible you’ll need to go for a quintessential Cape Cod seaside cottage in your keep. However for these hoping for a extra romantic or luxurious keep, she recommends Chatham Bars Inn: “The inn has the most effective spas in New England for those who’re trying to sneak away for some quiet time. Plus, you possibly can stroll into city, which is such a spotlight.” Between seaside journeys, bike rides, and popping into the t-shirt shops, galleries, and boutiques on Important Avenue, try two of Kurtzman’s can’t-miss Chatham staples: native watering gap The Chatham Squire and Chatham Sweet Manor.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Tetra Photos/Getty Photos
Nantucket has its personal model of island magic — one created by foggy climate, blooming hydrangeas, cobblestone streets, lobster rolls, and gorgeous oceanside properties. “There may be a lot to like [on the island], however a number of of my favorites embrace eating at Cru, Lola 41, and The Nautilus. For a particular meal with attractive sundown views, go to Galley Seashore. A go to to Cisco Brewers is a should — and that is effectively paired with grabbing picnic gadgets for the seaside at Bartlett’s Farm,” says Kurtzman. The seaside scene can be notable (her favorites are Surfside Seashore and Jetties Seashore), and there are a number of top-tier resorts to guide for an extra-luxe getaway. “To remain, I really like the White Elephant for its location, nice lodging (particularly nice for households), and wonderful service. I additionally love The Nantucket Lodge for the situation and wonderful children packages,” she says.
Ocean Metropolis, Maryland
aimintang/Getty Photos
“Ocean Metropolis, Maryland is by far my favourite East Coast seaside city. I grew up going to Ocean Metropolis with my household, and I could not be happier to now name this seaside retreat house,” says Cosgrove. “I really like which you could get a little bit little bit of every part… straightforward seaside entry, household actions, nice seafood, and vibrant nightlife.” Some seaside cities could also be sleepy, however Ocean Metropolis is the other; there are amusement parks (Trimper Rides and Jolly Roger Amusement Park), mini golf programs, playgrounds, piers, and loads of eating choices to maintain you full and energized. “Except for our new signature restaurant [at Ashore Resort & Beach Club], Tide Room, I would suggest guests additionally try The Hobbit and Liquid Property, which has a fantastic wine choice. Plus the downtown boardwalk and Thrasher’s well-known french fries are to not be missed,” she says.
Duck, North Carolina
Go to NC
For households who “love a mixture of journey and rest,” Cosgrove recommends Duck, a seaside city within the Outer Banks. With one of many greatest seashores in North Carolina, that is the kind of city the place you possibly can actually relax and take it straightforward. If you happen to favor to spend your trip days on the transfer, take a spin across the seaside city on a motorcycle (you possibly can lease one from Duck Cycle), head out on the water with Nor’ Banks Crusing & Watersports, or get your steps in whereas exploring the Duck City Park and Boardwalk. And if you find yourself craving one thing candy? Duck delivers. “Certainly one of my absolute favourite locations to go is Duck Donuts,” says Cosgrove, “They make unimaginable scorching donuts made to order.”
Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina
Ray Tan/Getty Photos
Broome calls Sullivan’s Island “probably the most lovable, laid-back seaside cities within the South,” and it’s not onerous to see why. Only a quick drive from downtown Charleston, the two.5-mile-long island is an area favourite, because of its proximity, straightforward seaside entry, and variety of unimaginable eating places — together with The Obstinate Daughter, Sullivan’s Fish Camp, and Poe’s Tavern. “The properties listed below are swoon-worthy, and the seaside is additional extensive, making for unimaginable views and countless seaside walks,” she provides. Professional tip: Lease a motorcycle from Sealand Journey Sports activities to discover each Sullivan’s Island and neighboring Isle of Palms.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
William Reagan/Getty Photos
If you happen to’ve traveled to Hilton Head Island even simply as soon as, you already know it’s the type of vacation spot that appears like house the second you arrive; it’s simply that particular. “Vacationers will love Hilton Head’s nice lengthy stretches of seashores and historic touches — it is also a extremely nice seaside city for many who love strolling and biking,” says Cosgrove. A simple weekend journey from Savannah, this a part of the Lowcountry boasts greater than 12 miles of sandy seashores, 30 golf programs, and countless methods to spend a protracted, leisurely day. Watch the boats arrive at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, be taught concerning the island’s historical past from a Gullah Heritage Path Excursions information, get hold of dolphins with Dolphin Discoveries Nature Excursions, or decide up recent seafood at Hilton Head Farmers Market.
St. Simons Island, Georgia
DorothyBlahnik/Getty Photos
Broome, who acquired married on close by Sea Island, names St. Simons Island the most effective East Coast seaside cities — a title given as a consequence of its perennial attraction. “[I] love that this vacation spot is an excellent place to go to year-round. There may be all the time one thing festive happening with actions for the entire household,” she says. In the summertime, East Seashore beckons; within the low season, guests can nonetheless benefit from the surroundings on a motorcycle trip alongside the St. Simons Island Path System, pop by the St. Simons Gentle Home Museum, or replenish on the well-known pancakes at Palmer’s Village Cafe. Throughout the holidays, a go to to The Cloister is paramount (though you’ll have to be a visitor — or have a eating reservation — to get on Sea Island).
Tybee Island, Georgia
aimintang/Getty Photos
When the summer season warmth descends upon Savannah, locals flock to Tybee Island, the place the extensive seashores supply a reprieve from the humidity. It’s a particularly family-friendly vacation spot that gives one thing for everybody. For the historical past buffs, there’s Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse; the journey seekers can paddle out on the open water with Sea Kayak Georgia; and nature lovers will admire the unparalleled entry to wildlife with Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventures. Come mealtime, there’s no must dress up. In true seaside city kind, Tybee Island is extraordinarily informal — whether or not you’re eating at Breakfast Membership (my private favourite), The Crab Shack, or Salt Island Fish and Beer.
Palm Seashore, Florida
Sean Pavone/Getty Photos
East Coast seaside cities are available all sizes and styles, and Palm Seashore, Florida is definitely probably the most glittery — and photogenic. “Stuffed with countless model and ample sunshine, Palm Seashore is an oasis that feels a bit like stepping right into a postcard,” says Broome. “With breezy palm bushes, blooming flowers, and delightful colours round each nook, the inspiration is countless.” The 18-mile-long barrier island is thought for its high-end procuring alongside Price Avenue, historic landmarks (the Flagler Museum), and a formidable roster of resorts; each The Breakers and The Brazilian Court docket Lodge are centrally positioned on the town. Following a pool day or a trip on a seaside cruiser, cease by Buccan Sandwich Store for a fast lunch, adopted by drinks at HMF or Florie’s on the 4 Seasons Resort Palm Seashore.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-hilton-head-sc-ECBEACHTOWNS0424-e86de01ca47c427aa07b8cd41ae498c9.jpg?w=1200&resize=1200,0&ssl=1&description=12+Greatest+Seashore+Cities+on+the+East+Coast){kind=link}