Dreaming of a summer where salty air, crashing waves, and fresh seafood take center stage? These 10 coastal towns—like Cannon Beach, Oregon, and Bar Harbor, Maine—are your passport to a getaway you’ll never shake. Picture golden beaches, windswept hikes, charming streets lined with history, and lobster rolls so good they’ll linger in your memory. Whether you’re after lazy shore days or outdoor thrills, this list delivers. Pin now, pack later, and soak in the coastal magic your summer bucket list craves—links to my fave finds inside!
Why Coastal Towns for Summer?
Summer and the coast go together like sand and seashells—warm sun kissing your skin, cool water lapping at your feet, and that unbeatable laid-back vibe you can’t find inland. These towns mix postcard-worthy beaches with small-town soul, offering trails to wander, seafood to savor, and vibes that feel like a deep breath of freedom. They’re less hectic than the big tourist traps, giving you space to unwind and make memories. From rugged cliffs to quaint harbors, these escapes are calling—let’s dive into the details!
1. Cannon Beach, Oregon
- Why It’s Epic: Famous for Haystack Rock—a 235-foot basalt monolith rising from the surf—and miles of wild Pacific coastline that scream untamed beauty.
- Beach Vibes: Cannon Beach stretches wide and sandy—perfect for kite-flying (a local fave), tide-pooling around starfish and anemones, or sunset walks with crashing waves as your soundtrack. Dogs romp free here, and the misty air keeps it cool even in July.
- Best Hike: Tillamook Head Trail in Ecola State Park (6 miles round-trip)—a moderate trek through towering Sitka spruce and fern-covered forest, ending with clifftop views of the ocean and Haystack Rock. Lookout for whale spouts in summer!
- Seafood Stop: Driftwood Restaurant & Lounge—a local haunt since 1944, dishing up creamy clam chowder, Dungeness crab cakes, and fish ‘n’ chips on a patio with salt-air breezes. Pair it with an Oregon microbrew.
- Summer Bonus: July’s Cannon Beach Sandcastle Contest—teams sculpt jaw-dropping art from sand, turning the shore into a gallery. Bring a picnic and watch the magic unfold.
- Extra Fun: Rent a surrey bike downtown to pedal along the beachfront—quirky and charming. Nearby, the Cannon Beach History Center spills tales of shipwrecks and pioneers.
- Local Tip: Hit the beach at low tide—tide pools pop, and Haystack’s base is walkable.
- Gear Up: Slather on SPF 50 for those deceivingly sunny days (the mist hides the burn!).
- Stay Here: 2 bedroom VRBO, only 3 min walk to the beach! —perfect for soaking in Cannon Beach’s coastal charm.
2. Bar Harbor, Maine
- Why It’s Epic: A bustling harbor town at the edge of Acadia National Park, blending rocky shores with lobster-fishing heritage and Gilded Age charm.
- Beach Vibes: Sand Beach in Acadia—small but stunning, with golden sand tucked between granite cliffs. The water’s chilly (50-60°F in summer), but brave souls dip in, and the scenery’s worth it—pine forests meet the Atlantic.
- Best Hike: Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail (7 miles round-trip)—a moderate climb through blueberry bushes and granite slabs to Acadia’s highest peak (1,530 feet). The payoff? Sweeping views of Bar Harbor, Frenchman Bay, and lobster boats dotting the water.
- Seafood Stop: The Travelin’ Lobster—fresh-from-the-boat lobster rolls served on toasted buns with a side of Maine blueberry pie. It’s a family-run gem off Route 3—bring cash and grab a picnic table.
- Summer Bonus: August whale-watching tours—board a boat for a 3-hour trip to spot humpbacks, finbacks, and seals. The foggy mornings add a mystical vibe.
- Extra Fun: Stroll the Shore Path—a 1-mile loop from downtown with Victorian mansions and bay views. Hit the Abbe Museum for Native Wabanaki history—small but fascinating.
- Local Tip: Catch sunrise from Cadillac Mountain—first light in the U.S., unbeatable in summer.
- Pack It: A cute swimsuit for a quick (bracing!) dip.
- Stay Here: The inn on Mount Desert—ideal for exploring Bar Harbor and Acadia.
3. Ogunquit, Maine
- Why It’s Epic: A postcard-perfect village—“Ogunquit” means “beautiful place by the sea” in Abenaki—with a 3-mile beach and an artsy soul.
- Beach Vibes: Ogunquit Beach—silky sand, gentle waves, and a tidal river (the Ogunquit River) flowing into the sea, ideal for kayaking or wading. Lifeguards keep it safe, and the vibe’s family-friendly yet chill.
- Best Hike: Marginal Way (1.25 miles one-way)—a paved, easy cliffside path with crashing surf, wild roses, and benches to soak in the Atlantic. It’s a locals’ fave—wheelchair-accessible too!
- Seafood Stop: Barnacle Billy’s—dockside dining with oysters on the half-shell, lobster stew, and a killer rum punch. The harbor view’s a bonus—watch boats bob while you eat.
- Summer Bonus: June kicks off with shows at the Ogunquit Playhouse—Broadway-quality theater in a historic barn. Book tickets early; they sell out!
- Extra Fun: Rent a kayak at Perkins Cove to paddle the river, or browse the cove’s galleries—think seascape paintings and quirky souvenirs.
- Local Tip: Walk Marginal Way at sunrise—fewer people, golden light, and pure peace.
- Stay Here: Anchorage by the Sea—steps from Ogunquit’s seaside charm.
4. Capitola, California
- Why It’s Epic: A pastel-hued gem with Venetian-style cottages lining Capitola Beach—a slice of Mediterranean charm on the Central Coast.
- Beach Vibes: Capitola Beach—calm, shallow waters perfect for paddleboarding, swimming, or lounging by the wharf. The colorful cottages and Soquel Creek backdrop make it Instagram catnip.
- Best Hike: New Brighton State Beach Trail (2 miles round-trip)—just east of town, this easy path winds along coastal bluffs with redwood groves and Pacific peekaboo views.
- Seafood Stop: Shadowbrook—a hillside spot reachable by a quirky cable car, serving crab-stuffed prawns and clam chowder in a romantic, garden-lined setting. Reservations recommended!
- Summer Bonus: July’s Wharf to Wharf Race—a 6-mile fun run from Santa Cruz to Capitola. Join in or cheer with a coffee in hand—pure summer energy.
- Extra Fun: Rent a stand-up paddleboard at Capitola Beach Co.—glide past the wharf. Hit the Capitola Village shops for local art and fudge.
- Local Tip: Visit midweek—weekends get busy with Bay Area day-trippers.
- Gear Up: Sunscreen for that Cali sun—https://amzn.to/41fr9nn—is a must.
- Stay Here: Capitola Venetian Hotel—perfect for Capitola’s coastal glow.
5. St. Augustine, Florida
- Why It’s Epic: America’s oldest city (founded 1565) pairs Spanish colonial history with pristine Atlantic beaches—culture meets coast.
- Beach Vibes: Anastasia State Park—4 miles of powdery white sand, rolling dunes, and warm waves (80°F in summer). Kayak the salt marsh or surf gentle swells—it’s a beach lover’s haven.
- Best Hike: GTM Reserve Trail (3 miles round-trip)—north of town, this easy loop offers marsh views, birdwatching (egrets, herons), and a peek at coastal ecosystems.
- Seafood Stop: Saltwater Cowboys—shrimp and grits or fried oysters on a riverfront deck with live oaks dripping Spanish moss. Casual, tasty, and oh-so-Florida.
- Summer Bonus: August’s free beach concerts at St. Augustine Beach Pier—bring a blanket and dance to local bands under the stars.
- Extra Fun: Tour the Castillo de San Marcos—a 17th-century fort with cannon demos. Rent a bike to explore historic downtown—cobblestone charm!
- Local Tip: Hit the beach early—afternoon storms can roll in fast.
- Pack It: A stylish swimsuit for those warm waves.
- Stay Here: Best Western Historic Bayfront—ideal for St. Augustine’s historic coast.
6. Port Townsend, Washington
- Why It’s Epic: A Victorian seaport on Puget Sound—think ornate buildings, historic ships, and Olympic Mountain views across the water.
- Beach Vibes: Fort Worden State Park—pebbly shores with old military bunkers, driftwood, and calm waters for kayaking. The views stretch to Canada on clear days!
- Best Hike: Chetzemoka Park Trail (1 mile)—an easy waterfront loop with wildflower bluffs, picnic spots, and a peek at the Point Wilson Lighthouse.
- Seafood Stop: Sirens Pub—fish tacos with local cod, clam chowder, and craft brews overlooking the marina. The nautical vibe’s spot-on.
- Summer Bonus: July’s Wooden Boat Festival—hundreds of classic boats dock for tours, races, and maritime lore. A sailor’s dream!
- Extra Fun: Climb the bunkers at Fort Worden for panoramic pics. Browse Water Street’s antique shops—vintage finds galore.
- Local Tip: Catch the ferry to Whidbey Island for a day trip—30 minutes of scenic bliss.
- Stay Here: Tides Inn & Suites—cozy vibes right on the beach.
7. Tybee Island, Georgia
- Why It’s Epic: A laid-back barrier island 18 miles from Savannah, with dolphin-filled waters and Southern charm.
- Beach Vibes: South Beach—soft, wide sand, warm waves (80°F+), and a pier for fishing or sunset selfies. It’s chill yet lively—perfect balance.
- Best Hike: McQueen’s Island Trail (6 miles one-way)—an old rail path turned scenic route, with marsh views, birdlife (ospreys!), and ocean breezes. Bike it if you’re feeling zippy!
- Seafood Stop: The Crab Shack—peel-and-eat shrimp, Lowcountry boil, and hushpuppies under live oaks with twinkle lights. Alligators roam the lagoon—photo op!
- Summer Bonus: June’s Tybee Turtle Tour—guided walks to spot nesting loggerheads. Book early—it’s a rare treat.
- Extra Fun: Climb the Tybee Lighthouse (178 steps) for 360° island views. Paddleboard the backwaters—dolphins might join!
- Local Tip: Arrive midweek—Savannah weekenders pack it out.
- Gear Up: SPF 50 for that steamy Southern sun.
- Stay Here: Tybee Island Inn—perfect for Tybee’s island charm.
8. Saugatuck, Michigan
- Why It’s Epic: A Lake Michigan gem with artsy flair, dune-backed beaches, and a chill Midwest vibe—think “Cape Cod of the Great Lakes.”
- Beach Vibes: Oval Beach—golden sand, gentle waves, and towering dunes perfect for sunbathing or sandboarding. Freshwater feels like an ocean!
- Best Hike: Saugatuck Dunes State Park (North Trail, 5.5 miles)—rolling dunes, shady woods, and lake vistas—moderate but rewarding.
- Seafood Stop: The Southerner—fried perch and shrimp po’boys with a Southern twist, served on a patio with dune views.
- Summer Bonus: July’s Venetian Festival—boat parades and fireworks light up the Kalamazoo River.
- Extra Fun: Rent a dune buggy for Oval Beach thrills. Hit the Saugatuck Chain Ferry—a hand-cranked relic—for a quick river ride.
- Local Tip: Visit in June—July/August get busy with Chicago escapees.
- Pack It: A cute swimsuit for freshwater fun.
- Stay Here: Old Pike Cottages—ideal for Saugatuck’s artsy coast.
9. Newport, Rhode Island
- Why It’s Epic: A historic sailing hub with Gilded Age mansions, rocky cliffs, and a yacht-filled harbor—New England elegance meets coast.
- Beach Vibes: Easton’s Beach (First Beach)—soft sand, moderate surf, and a vintage carousel nearby—classic summer feels.
- Best Hike: Cliff Walk (3.5 miles one-way)—an easy path along the shore with crashing waves and mansion backdrops like The Breakers.
- Seafood Stop: The Lobster Shack—lobster rolls and clam cakes right on the wharf—grab a picnic table and watch the boats.
- Summer Bonus: July’s Newport Folk Festival—legendary music on the harborfront. Tickets sell fast!
- Extra Fun: Tour Rosecliff mansion—think Great Gatsby vibes. Sail on a sunset cruise—book ahead.
- Local Tip: Park early—summer traffic clogs downtown.
- Stay Here: The Brenton Hotel—perfect for Newport’s harbor elegance.
10. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
- Why It’s Epic: A fairytale village on the Monterey Peninsula—white-sand beaches, cypress groves, and artsy charm.
- Beach Vibes: Carmel Beach—pristine sand, turquoise waves, and bonfire pits at dusk—dogs run free here!
- Best Hike: Point Lobos State Natural Reserve (Cypress Grove Trail, 0.8 miles)—short but stunning, with sea otters, seals, and cliffside views.
- Seafood Stop: The Grill on Ocean Avenue—seared scallops and crab bisque in a cozy, upscale spot.
- Summer Bonus: August’s Concours on the Avenue—vintage cars line the streets, free to ogle!
- Extra Fun: Browse Ocean Avenue’s galleries—think local watercolors. Kayak Carmel Bay—spot marine life up close.
- Local Tip: Hit Point Lobos midweek—weekends fill fast.
- Gear Up: Sunscreen for those perfect beach days.
- Stay Here: Hyatt Vacation Club At Highlands Inn—ideal for Carmel’s fairytale coast.
Pin This Coastal Escape Guide Now!
Dreamy coastal getaways for your summer bucket list—pin now, pack later! From Cannon Beach’s rugged shores to Bar Harbor’s lobster-filled charm, these 10 towns promise beaches, hikes, and seafood you’ll never forget. Save this guide, shop my summer must-haves, and plan your escape—links inside!
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