7 Best Small Towns on the Atlantic Coast to Visit in 2024
The Atlantic Coast, also commonly known as the Atlantic Seaboard or the East Coast, boasts a stream of charming and picturesque destinations. These towns range from northern New England to southern states like Florida. The following small Atlantic coastal towns boast attractive waterfronts and charming downtowns filled with cafés, art galleries, and boutique stores. They often encompass wonderfully scenic beaches along the Atlantic with stunning sunrises and sunsets in the summertime. Many beaches and harbors are ideal for enjoying relaxing days at sea. For the watersport enthusiasts, enjoy a great kayak or sail on the azure waters. If you want to escape from your daily routine to embrace the Atlantic shoreline, consider one of these seven quaint small towns for your next trip.
Bethany Beach, Delaware
If you’re looking for a small-town destination that is both affordable and pristine, look no further than Bethany Beach in Delaware. This small town, along with Fenwick Island and South Bethany, is also known as the “Quiet Resorts.” It has few locals but attracts large crowds every summer thanks to its superb state parks, charming historical landmarks, and striking beaches.
Most visitors adore Fenwick Island State Park for a dip into the area's most pleasant scenery. Here, one can enjoy many water activities like sailing, surfing, and swimming. The famous Joseph Olsen Boardwalk also offers tremendous views of the Atlantic Ocean and the area's historic landscape. For history fans, visiting the Indian River Life-Saving Service Station Museum will allow you to learn about Bethany Beach’s marine heritage.
Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City is a small town in Maryland known for its energetic boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and opulent maritime heritage. Ten miles of rich, golden sandy beaches along the Atlantic coast offer many coastal activities, such as parasailing and jet skiing. For a more relaxing time, visitors can set up along Ocean City Beach to sunbathe, drink, and build sandcastles. Or, walk over to the bustling three-mile-long boardwalk, showcasing treats for people of any age. Here, one can enjoy food and drinks at local hotspots like Fisher’s Popcorn, Dolle’s Candyland, and Thrasher’s French Fries.
Those interested in Ocean City's history can visit the iconic Atlantic Hotel, the first major hotel in this small town. It originally opened in 1875 but was destroyed in a fire and rebuilt in 1926. Today, it is one of the oldest hotels in the city. Meanwhile, for a mix of everything, one should drive to Assateague Island, known for its stunning beaches, lighthouse, and majestic herds of feral horses.
Rockport, Massachusetts
Rockport, Massachusetts, is known as one of the best small beach towns on the northern Atlantic coastline. Most people are drawn to the town’s historic colonial architecture, which visitors often admire during scenic strolls along the Rockport harbor. One historic landmark that stands out is Motif Number 1, a replica of an 1884 fishing shack known for its bright red paint. Along with tourists, artists have been herding to Rockport to gain inspiration from its enchanting coastal villages and striking ocean views since the 1800s and the town remains a hub for art. Today, you can take in the town’s artistic flair through the many art galleries along the harbor, including William Greendaum Fine Prints and Caleb Stone.
If you’re into hiking, visit Halibut Point State Park for an immense view of the Atlantic coastline. This 67-acre park may not be the largest in the region, but it is chock full of outdoor opportunities, from scenic hiking trails to ledges for waterside picnics. On the other hand, those wanting to tee off can hit the green at Rockport Golf Club, a great place to hang out with friends.
Camden, Maine
Camden, Maine, is another small town to add to your Atlantic Coast town bucket list. It is burrowed in Knox County and offers breathtaking mountainous and coastal views. Visit the famous Camden waterfront and head out to the Curtis Island Lighthouse for stunning views against a bright blue sky. Another must-visit is the 5,710-acre Camden Hills State Park, which is home to the towering Mount Battie. Adventurous souls can access the mountain summit by car or foot for the most idyllic views of Camden and surrounding islands. The park is also ideal for horseback riding, snowmobiling, rock climbing, and camping for all kinds of outdoor fun.
Back on Camden’s paved streets, the town’s artistic flair shines as it was a filming location for movies in the 1900s, such as Carousel, Peyton Place, and Casper. Moreover, Camden is home to a Shakespeare festival every summer, an event boasting dozens of wonderful plays showcasing the genius work of William Shakespeare. If you’re a reader or lover of architecture, be sure to visit the Camden Public Library and the Camden Opera House for the most fine-looking architecture.
Newport, Rhode Island
Also known as a New England summer resort, Newport, Rhode Island, is famous for its rich sailing history and historic summer mansions. During the Gilded Age, Newport was often called the playground for America’s most elite, hence the magnificent mansions along the Cliff Walk. Some of the most iconic are The 1895 Breakers, the 1892 Marble House, and the 1851 Chateau-sur-Mer. Each boasts a unique style of architecture that transports one to an era of old. Many also boasts views of the town's serene rocky shores and golden sandy beaches. Tourists will surely be hungry after taking in all of Newport’s charm. Thankful, there are plenty of delectable restaurant options, from a sandwich at the White Horse Tavern to waterfront drinks at The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar.
Cape May, New Jersey
Known for its eloquent Victorian architecture, Cape May radiates coastal charm and gloriously preserves historical architecture. Situated at the edge of the Cape May Peninsula, visitors are encouraged to walk the Washington Street Mall, which is filled with lively eateries, shops, and other attractions for the family. Some of the top spots are The Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar for a meal, Cape May Rotary Park for some outdoor relaxation, and the Congress Hall Hotel for a comfortable stay.
If you are a fan of art, Cape May will not disappoint with its stream of art galleries and theaters around town. Check for festivals before planning your quaint visit to Cape May, as the town hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Cape May Food & Wine Festival, the Cape May Jazz Festival, and the Cape May New Jersey Film Festival.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
If you’re looking for a small town on the southern Atlantic coast, Myrtle Beach might be the answer. In the early 20th century, Myrtle Beach started as a little resort town, and as the years went by, it became an increasingly popular summer destination for tourists due to its vast and bright blue beaches. Today, the town is centered along a 60-mile-long span of beach, more commonly known as the “Grand Strand.” Here, visitors can find 80 golf courses, 1,500 restaurants, and endless waterside views, offering an Atlantic Coast experience like no other.
Families in town will enjoy a ride on the famous SkyWheel, a giant Ferris wheel boasting immaculate viewpoints of the coast. For more family-friendly activities, one can check out Ripley’s Aquarium, a lovely world of water full of jellyfish, crabs, fish, and marine mammals. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at several local courses with splendid natural landscapes, such as Myrtle Beach National and Myrtlewood Golf Club. While static attractions are plentiful, 2024 visitors should also check out one of the many local events, such as the Beach ‘N Chilli Fest in September and the Grand Strand Holiday during Christmas.
Wrapping Up A Coastal Trip in 2024
There comes a time when we all look for an escape from daily life to a small, quaint town that is local and beautiful. The most important thing to do is to find the right small Atlantic coastal town in 2024 and enjoy every second of your vacation there with friends or family. Take some time to enjoy the pristine scenery and breathe in that fresh oceanic air while you enjoy your break away from the routine of everyday life.
