6 Undiscovered Small Towns On The Atlantic Coast

From mountainous Maine down to tropical Florida, the Atlantic Coast is filled with an abundance of gems just waiting to be discovered. A total of 14 states line the shoreline of the Atlantic Coast, and each has its own unique qualities and reasons to visit. Whether you crave an ocean adventure or a serene forest respite, you'll find it here. While there are many bustling cities along the coast, it is the small, charming towns that make a state feel like a home away from home. Find six undiscovered small towns to consider exploring during your next Atlantic Coast trip.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Situated on pretty Mount Desert Island off of Maine's Atlantic Coast, Bar Harbor is the quintessential small seaside town. Many things make it special, but its natural beauty stands out among other vacation destinations. Outdoor lovers will appreciate being in close proximity to Acadia National Park, as well as numerous coves and quiet beaches. After you've strolled through Bar Harbor's historic downtown, walk over the Bar Island Land Bridge to explore the Bar Island Nature Preserve.

During the warm spring, summer, and early fall months, rent a bike from Acadia Bike Rentals and explore the town at your own pace. If you have car enthusiasts in your travel group, check out the nearby Seal Cove Auto Museum or the Natural History Center to learn all about the region's unique geography. They also offer nature and bird tours throughout Acadia National Park.

Mystic, Connecticut

Charming Mystic, Connecticut, is the ideal beach getaway town, complete with salty air, a relaxed vibe, plenty of casual eateries and cafes, and the unique New England charm that draws visitors into the region from all over. Mystic overlooks scenic Mason's Island and is situated on the pretty Mystic River, which is the perfect place to launch a canoe or kayak during the summer. What Mystic lacks in large crowds, it makes up for in outdoor recreational opportunities.

This largely undiscovered town is also home to the Peace Nature Sanctuary, which is a green open space just waiting to be explored, as well as the Mystic Seaport Museum. The Mystic Aquarium is also worth a visit, as it features a wide variety of sea life, much of it native to the region, in spectacular displays. The sweet seaside town also offers marinas if you want to bring your own personal watercraft, or join a group tour the day.

Beaufort, North Carolina

The charming coastal community of Beaufort, North Carolina, is located on Beaufort Inlet and has the distinction of being the state's fourth-oldest town. Beaufort was founded in the early 1700s and has a rich, unique nautical history. Beaufort is a nature enthusiast's paradise, with a network of rivers, marshlands, and lush, open green spaces that beckon to be discovered. Beaufort's many parks include the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park and Fishermen's Park.

History lovers won't want to miss the expansive Beaufort National Military Cemetary, which is within walking distance of the historic downtown. Beaufort is also known for its abundance of special events all year long, including the Annual Independence Day Celebration and the waterfront Mardi Gras Festival.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

If you're craving a relaxing beachfront getaway any time of the year, you can't go wrong with the unique Jekyll Island, Georgia. The sweet island is known for being sparsely populated and quiet, as well as filled with natural beauty, from its sandy beaches to lush green spaces. Each of the island's beaches has aspects that set them apart from the others, such as Driftwood Beach's mass of entangled trees suspended over the water.

For families, you can't beat a day trip to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, which is home to a large variety of rescued species, as well as an interesting collection of giant sea turtle skeletons. If birdwatching is more your thing, check out the Old Amphitheater Area or St. Andrew Beach. A trip to the Summer Waves Water Park is a fun way to cool off on hot summer days.

Fernandina Beach, Florida

Although Florida is known for its miles of beautiful beaches, the quaint town of Fernandina Beach stands out among the rest for several reasons. Not only does Fernandina Beach have soft, sandy Atlantic Coast beaches, but it also boasts stunning Victorian-style homes, oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, and a historic downtown just waiting to be discovered.

Tucked away in the state's scenic northeast corner, Fernandina Beach is situated on Amelia Island. Its many historic landmarks include the Amelia Island Lighthouse and the Palace Saloon, which is known as Florida's oldest continuously operating bar. Spend some time at Fort Clinch State Park, where you can swim, sunbathe, surf, or go fishing from a pier. Bike rentals and eateries serving local cuisine and sweets, such as the Fantastic Fudge shop, are also available at the park.

New Smyrna Beach, Florida

Located on Florida's famous AIA state road, New Smyrna Beach offers visitors an authentic beach experience, complete with kitschy beach shops selling souvenirs like Alvin's Island and BeachSyde Siren and miles of sandy beachfront. Restaurants and bars with glowing tiki torches line the oceanfront, tempting tourists with tasty local cuisine, refreshing cocktails, and fresh seafood. Some of the most notable ones include The Breakers Ocean Front Restaurant & Bar, the Norwoods Restaurant and Treehouse Bar, and the Mermaid Cafe. When you visit this undiscovered Florida gem, you can choose to spend it relaxing on the beach or having an outdoor adventure. No matter what you do, you're guaranteed a good time.

Meander down New Smyrna Beach's palm-lined Canal Street Historic District, taking in the many art galleries, unique boutiques, eateries, and coffee shops. To really get up close to Florida's natural areas, spend some time at the breathtaking Cape Canaveral National Seashore or the coastal Dunes Park.

From top to bottom, the United States' Atlantic Coast is a hotspot for one-of-a-kind coastal wildlife and nature reserves, sandy beaches ideal for either relaxing or partaking in an adventurous water sport, and historic sites you'll find nowhere else. Whether you're traveling during the peak of summer or the chillier holiday season, one of the Atlantic Coasts' undiscovered small towns will provide the perfect base camp for all of your seaside excursions.