When you picture beach towns, Florida, California and Hawaii may come to your mind as some of the most scenic. But there’s more to the top favorites than beauty and sitting close to the water. Some of the favorite beach towns in America are made popular because of their affordability, economy, health, safety, weather and quality of life. If you’re planning a getaway, you may want to navigate a trip to any of the following 5 favorites.
Traverse City, Michigan
If you love the sand and water, you know spending the holidays at your favorite beach location offers amazing vacation memories. Traverse City is a coastal beach community that is both peaceful and calm. While you’ll find the area laid back most times of the year, the visitors who flock to the town during the peak seasons come for the sand, beaches, wineries and shops. If you like the outdoors, Traverse City has the ideal climate for getting back to Mother Nature. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has some of the most incredible breathtaking views where you can climb the sand dunes, paddle, kayak, bike or hike your way around the freshwater beaches. The climate is also ideal for growing cherries and grapes for their many wineries. While summer is popular among vacationers in Traverse City, fall is another favorite where guest come to witness the rolling hills in its colorful splendor. The area also boasts an amazing shopping community and downtown art walk.
Seaside, Florida
Seaside, Florida is a laid-back beach destination most popular for its white sandy beaches and unique architecture. You’ll find the many seaside vacation rentals reflective of this fascinating bygone era with its colorful structures, white picket fences, serene beauty and high-quality amenities. But there’s more to this community than relaxing on your favorite porch swing with a good book. This energetic town is also alive with adventure, shopping, dining, history and entertainment. Seaside events are also plentiful with its weekly farmer’s market, Seeing Red Wine Festival and Emeril Lagasse’s Taste of the Race, to name a few. With crystal clear waters and sugar sand, 30A seaside beaches are another favorite among Seaside tourists looking to lounge, snorkel and swim.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel is a popular beach town for its unique culture and fairytale construction. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a week’s stay, Carmel-by-the-sea rewards visitors with its historic sites, beaches, restaurants and scenic beauty. Traveling via car or on foot, you won’t lack things to see and do. The 17 mile drive scenic tour is a great way for visitors to absorb the animals, nature and ocean views. Carmel Beach is dog-friendly and a must-see attraction when you’re looking to take a romantic stroll or take in a breathtaking sunset. Other favorite attractions you won’t want to miss during your visit include the Mission Trail Park, Carmel Wine and Walk by the Sea and Cypress Inn for fine dining at its best.
York Beach, Maine
Visitors flood to York Beach, Maine during the summer season to take in its seaside charm and outdoor fishing. One of the major attractions to the area is the 4 beaches. Whether you choose Cape Neddick, York Harbor, Long Sands or Short Sands, you’re sure to enjoy kayaking, deep sea fishing, swimming and sun bathing. If you’re into picturesque beauty, Nubble Light is the most famous of lighthouses for photographers. York Beach also has some amazing history with its local museums where guests can hear daring sea tales. Restaurants are also a specialty with some of the most dynamic fare you’ll find on the coast. Whales migrate around the waters of Maine during late spring to early fall. Whether you take a charter or peek from shore, you may be lucky to spot the magnificent giants.
Isle of Palms, South Carolina
This coastal beach town promises family-friendly beach fun with breathtaking views. With annual rewards from the Clean Beaches Council recognizing the community for its environmentally-friendly beaches, Isle of Palms in South Carolina is also dedicated to safeguarding the ecology of the island. Situated a mere 12 miles from Charleston, Isle of Palms is the ideal beach getaway for visitors who enjoy jet skiing, golf, fishing trips, bicycling and parasailing. When you’re looking to relax, sun worshipers will find the 7 mile stretch of sand and water a great place to hit the surf. Bicycles are a favorite mode of transportation for sightseeing, but guests can also take in the sites via truck or car.
America’s beaches are a favorite among travelers because they are a place where families can come for outdoor adventure. But besides the sand and sun, the beach towns offer more than just a place to seek relief from the summer heat. They also offer breathtaking views, historic sites to explore and foods made famous by the region.
