5 Best Beach Towns In The U.S. + 5 Underrated Spots Worth The Trip

There’s something timeless about a great beach town—the kind of place where flip-flops count as formal wear and the biggest decision of the day is sunrise walk or sunset drinks. From well-loved coastal classics to underrated gems that locals try to keep secret, the U.S. is packed with shoreline towns worth the trip.

This list includes five favorites that truly live up to the hype, plus five lesser-known spots where you can skip the crowds and soak up the real charm.

1. Santa Barbara, California

Nestled between mountains and ocean, this coastal paradise captivates visitors with its Mediterranean charm. Santa Barbara’s palm-lined beaches and Spanish colonial architecture create a distinctly California experience without the overwhelming crowds of bigger cities.

Stroll along State Street for shopping and dining, then head to Butterfly Beach for spectacular sunsets that locals treasure.

2. Charleston, South Carolina

Southern hospitality meets coastal elegance in this historic gem. Charleston blends cobblestone streets with nearby beach access, creating a unique destination where history and ocean views coexist perfectly.

Explore the colorful Rainbow Row before heading to nearby Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island for relaxing afternoons by the Atlantic. The seafood here is as authentic as the architecture.

3. Key West, Florida

Laid-back vibes and crystal waters make this southernmost paradise unforgettable. Key West combines quirky charm with serious natural beauty, attracting everyone from literary buffs to snorkeling enthusiasts.

Catch the famous sunset celebration at Mallory Square, then wander down Duval Street where the party continues well into the evening. The coral reefs surrounding the island offer world-class diving opportunities.

4. Cape May, New Jersey

Victorian splendor meets pristine shoreline in this architectural wonderland. Cape May stands as America’s oldest seaside resort, where gingerbread-trimmed houses create a fairytale backdrop to excellent beaches.

Take a horse-drawn carriage tour through the historic district before hitting the sand. The town’s preservation efforts have maintained its 19th-century character while offering modern beach amenities.

5. Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii

Paradise found on this historic whaling port turned beach haven. Lahaina offers the perfect balance of Hawaiian culture, spectacular beaches, and small-town charm despite being a major tourist destination.

Walk under the massive banyan tree downtown before catching a traditional luau. From Lahaina, you’re just minutes from some of Maui’s most stunning beaches and prime whale-watching spots during migration season.

6. Port Townsend, Washington

Victorian architecture meets rugged Pacific Northwest beauty in this artistic haven. The maritime history and thriving arts scene create an atmosphere unlike typical beach towns, with misty mornings and dramatic coastal views.

Browse local galleries before exploring Fort Worden State Park’s beaches and bunkers. Port Townsend sits at the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula, offering access to both Puget Sound and wilderness adventures.

7. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Sugar-white sands stretch for miles along this affordable Gulf Coast gem. Families flock here for the combination of clean beaches, reasonably priced accommodations, and natural beauty without the crowds of Florida’s more famous destinations.

Spend mornings collecting seashells before exploring Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Gulf Shores offers the perfect balance of beachfront relaxation and outdoor adventure without breaking the bank.

8. Rockport, Texas

Artistic spirit flows through this coastal fishing village with surprising charm. The combination of working harbor and creative community gives visitors an authentic Texas coastal experience without pretension.

Watch fishermen bring in the day’s catch before exploring the galleries along Austin Street. Rockport’s recovery from Hurricane Harvey showcases the resilience of this tight-knit community that welcomes visitors like old friends.

9. Cape Charles, Virginia

Step back in time on this Chesapeake Bay peninsula where golf carts outnumber cars. The calm, shallow waters and uncrowded public beach create the perfect environment for families seeking a low-key escape.

Grab an ice cream cone before browsing the boutiques on Mason Avenue. Cape Charles offers a glimpse of coastal Americana with its restored Victorian homes and fishing pier extending into the sunset-painted bay.

10. Traverse City, Michigan

Fresh water meets wine country in this Great Lakes surprise. The Caribbean-blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay provide all the beach experience without salt, sharks, or humidity, while nearby vineyards offer sophisticated tastings.

Climb the massive Sleeping Bear Dunes before cooling off in the crystal-clear lake. Traverse City combines beach town relaxation with foodie culture, thanks to its renowned cherry orchards and emerging culinary scene.