Who says you can’t have a beachside holiday vacation? While everyone will easily think of Miami, the Hamptons, or Malibu, some of the best coastal destinations are underrated. These hidden beach towns offer more than just swimming, as they’re also charming communities where you get authentic experiences. With that, we’re bringing you the 9 hidden beach towns that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
9. Folly Beach, South Carolina
North Carolina is home to the iconic Outer Banks, full of underrated beach towns that are just 10 miles from downtown Charleston. It’s a great spot for those wanting to engage in watersports, as The Washout is at the epicenter for surfers. Visitors can even relax while watching wildlife from the beach’s pier and dine at restaurants with ocean views and Lowcountry-inspired seafood.
8. Lewes, Delaware
There’s a good chance you haven’t heard of Lewes in Delaware. It’s a village just eight miles north. But if you’re interested in a bit of history, head to New Castle, the smallest town in New Hampshire, situated on an island. Tour around Fort Constitution, which was built in the 1700s, and the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse from 1877. That’s the beauty of beach towns, free from the commercialization of major beach resorts.
7. Florence, Oregon
Just three hours south of Portland via Highway 101 is Florence. The area features rising sand dunes and a long stretch of beaches that meet the Pacific Ocean. It’s a great spot for fishing for salmon and crabs. There’s a downtown along Bay Street where you get to stroll in small boutiques, coffee shops, and cafes. The Waterfront Depot is one of the best restaurants in town for savoring fresh seafood with stunning river views.
6. Northport, New York
While The Hamptons gets the glitzy reputation, there’s a hidden gem beach town on Long Island’s north shore called Northport. It’s praised for its old-world feel, like some buildings dating back to the 18th century. You can watch a show at the John W. Engeman Theater or have a picnic at the Northport Village Park. There’s also the Crab Meadow Beach with a playground, basketball court, and sandbar. The best part? It’s just 46 miles away from New York City.
5. Capitola, California
Like a seaside village from the Italian Riviera, Capitola is one of California’s first-ever beach towns. It features Crayola-colored cottages and sandy bays that give off a Mediterranean feel. You can choose to go surfing on Capitola City Beach or go paddleboarding on the Soquel River. Walk around the downtown area and grab a cone from Marianne’s, or visit The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park just nearby if you want to go on a day hike.
4. Gulf Shores, Alabama
Alabama’s Gulf Shores is one of the top budget-friendly beaches on the Gulf Coast, but less crowded than Florida’s best beaches. You can enjoy a morning swim at the Gulf Shores Public Beach or go fishing at the Gulf State Park and around the Gulf State Park Fishing Pier. For big seafood fans, have a heavy lunch at Gulf Shores. Try to time your visit between March and June or September to December for the best hotel rates.
3. Port Aransas, Texas
Yup, Texas’ Gulf beaches are underrated for travelers outside the Lone Star State. Port Aransas is one of them, as Mustang Island features 18 miles of shoreline. There are also outdoor activities to enjoy, like paragliding, fishing, and kayaking in the inlets. Temperatures are also mild year-round, which makes it a great destination even during the off-season. You can also enjoy some great Tex-Mex food around the area.
2. Bandon, Oregon
This sleepy little beach town is in massive boulders and rock formations. Bandon’s nearby Oregon OIslands National Wildlife Refuge is a spot where you can see abundant marine life, a flock of seabirds, and a long stretch of beach and tidepools. The coastline features towering sea stacks and rock formations that are worth checking out. It’s a much more laid-back town compared to your usual beach town.
1. Corolla, North Carolina
The Corolla is one hidden gem that remains as the last wild beach in America. The seaside town actually began as a fishing village in the 1800s, with a population that never exceeded 500 permanent residents. The cool part is that the beach is only accessible by boat or with a four-wheel drive vehicle since the area doesn’t have paved roads. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of wild mustangs that roam freely by the ocean and throughout the neighborhoods. Stroll along the historic Corolla village or climb the 220 stairs of the brick Currituck Lighthouse.
