8 Best Lakeside Towns on the Atlantic Coast
Imagine this: You have just arrived at a lakeside town on the Atlantic Coast, ready for a relaxing vacation. You settle in by the water, set your phone to “Do Not Disturb,” and reach for your book. Welcome to a lakeside vacation where "unplugging" is a luxury and the calm of the water is the best kind of therapy. Each of the eight best lakeside towns on the Atlantic Coast is packed with charm, natural beauty, and plenty of outdoor activities — from paddling through historic waters, hiking through ancient forests, or just enjoying the view of your children making the most of their summer vacations. If you're looking for the perfect lakeside escape, these eight towns provide a peaceful getaway with East Coast comforts and plenty of outdoor fun. So go ahead and get your feet wet. Because here, you're not just on vacation, you're exploring history, too.
Lakeville, Massachusetts
The first stop is Lakeville, Massachusetts, a town that doesn't just sit next to Assawompset and Long ponds; it practically thrives on them. With boating, fishing, and swimming as staples for both locals and visitors, these lakes are far more than just a scenic backdrop. Historically, Lakeville was a cranberry farming center, a part of its identity that has evolved into tourism. Today, the town serves as a peaceful retreat from the hustle of Boston. If you take a walk through the Lakeville Historic District, you'll find 19th-century homes and Old Town Hall, the latter of which stands as a quiet reminder of the region's past. If hiking and wildlife watching are your things, Massasoit State Park and the Fall Brook-Washburn Conservation area are both within 20 minutes of town and are perfect for a peaceful afternoon outdoors. When it comes to fishing, anglers are drawn to Long Pond’s consistently stocked waters. Visitors also enjoy the Lakeville Arts & Music Festival, a fall community event with arts, crafts, and, of course, live music.
Bridgeton, New Jersey
In Bridgeton, New Jersey, the calm waters of Sunset and Mary Elmer lakes provide a playground for anyone looking to kayak, canoe, or sail through the still waters. Plus, the Cohansey River flows right through the center of town. It is hard to imagine this spot as anything but serene. Bridgeton can trace its origins all the way back to 1686, making it one of the oldest settlements in New Jersey. Stepping into this town is like walking through a history book, with colonial-era buildings that whisper stories of the birth of the New World. Berry farming has long been part of the town’s economy, and local farms are still a go-to stop for fresh produce. The Cohansey RiverFest and Bridgeton Crabfest celebrate the town's heritage. For wildlife watchers, the Cohansey River serves up some of the best views of migratory birds, particularly in the fall. Lastly, no trip to Bridgeton would be complete without stopping in the Cohanzick Zoo, the state's first zoo, where you and your family can experience some of the world's most exotic animals up close and personal — for free!
Saranac Lake, New York
If you are looking for the ultimate summer vacation in the Adirondacks, Saranac Lake, New York, is a hotspot for adventure. Located near a number of lakes, including the Upper, Middle and Lower Saranac, this small town is perfect for kayaking, boating, and other watersports. Saranac’s long history as a destination for relaxation and recreation continues to draw people as it has for decades, pulling in celebrities and even famous past writers like F. Scott Fitzgerald. Plus, the town’s small size creates a quiet atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts, with the nearby wilderness offering additional year-round adventure. But Saranac Lake is not only about the fun outdoors. It is a town that is also steeped with history. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, it was a retreat for tuberculosis patients, which led to the establishment of the Saranac Laboratory Museum. The museum tells the story of the medical treatments that once brought people from around the world to the area. For modern-day visitors, the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival is an absolute must-see, featuring ice sculptures, snowshoe races, and a lively parade.
Creedmoor, North Carolina
Creedmoor might be small, but it is big on outdoor adventures. With Lake Rogers to the north and Beaver Dam Lake and Falls Lake to the south, this town serves up a menu of water-based fun that is perfect for you and your loved ones who enjoy spending their days on or by the water. It doesn't matter if you are casting a line for a fresh catch, enjoying a peaceful paddle across the lakes, or taking a stroll along the shoreline, Creedmoor offers all the tranquility you need to relax and refresh. For those who prefer land over water, the town’s parks have miles of trails for hiking and biking, so you can explore the area’s natural beauty at your own pace. With picnic spots, playgrounds, and ample green space, it is easy to see why Creedmoor is the perfect spot for a full day of outdoor fun. While in town be sure to stop in at the Cedar Creek Gallery and get a look at the fine crafts that are the pride of town.
Okeechobee, Florida
Okeechobee is just the town you have been looking for to get away from it all. It is a natural playground for those who enjoy the great outdoors, with Lake Okeechobee — the largest freshwater lake in the Sunshine State — taking center stage. Whether you are an angler on the hunt for the big catch, a birdwatcher tracking migrating species, or just a man with his boat ready to set sail, this lakeside town has it all. The lake’s vast waters are perfect for fishing, especially if you are chasing those legendary bass that call the lake home. Meanwhile, the Okeechobee Battlefield Historic State Park is where you can experience both hiking and a dose of local history. Okeechobee is also a prime spot for wildlife lovers to catch glimpses of everything from alligators to bald eagles. In town, you can also go on the hunt for the six murals that are a part of the statewide street mural art trend. At the same time, the Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival keeps the town's appreciation for the arts pumping, making for a great experience for families.
Boylston, Massachusetts
This is the type of town that makes you want to lace up your sneakers and hit the trails. Sat right on the edge of the Wachusett Reservoir, it is a popular destination for anyone who craves fresh air and outdoor adventure. Kayaking or canoeing on the lake offers a serene way to explore. At the same time, the surrounding conservation areas are perfect for hikers looking to stretch their legs and soak in the natural beauty. If you are looking to cast a line into the lake or enjoy a picnic by the water, there is no shortage of ways to bask in the great outdoors of this town. The town also boasts a healthy dose of nearby history, with Redemption Rock, just 30 minutes from town, being the site where Mary Rowlandson was released from captivity in 1676, making your visit not just scenic, but a bit educational, too. For a quick getaway where you can unplug and enjoy some outdoor R&R, Boylston is where nature — and a bit of New England charm — awaits.
North Brunswick Township, New Jersey
North Brunswick township is the most populous town on our list, with about 44,000 people. It might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of "lakeside retreat," but with Farrington Lake right in its backyard, it is a hidden gem for outdoor lovers. If you are in the mood for kayaking, fishing, or just tossing a flying disc on the shores, the lake offers a peaceful escape from the urban grind. The nearby North Brunswick Community Park is a go-to for hiking, biking, and playing, with trails that wind through wooded areas and scenic spots perfect for a picnic, or just taking the family dog for a run. If you are into wildlife, keep an eye out for migrating birds or the occasional deer during a quiet walk. Thanks to the peace and quiet of the town the area is teeming with them. The food scene in this town is another added bonus. Labebe Prime is everything you could hope for in a steak house and the prices do not break the bank the way they would in larger cities. North Brunswick might not boast towering mountains or vast wilderness, but its lakeside charm and outdoor activities offer a refreshing break, with the added bonus of being just a short trip from New York City and Philadelphia, both of which are less than a two-hour drive from town.
Timonium, Maryland
Timonium is not by any means a household name, but it is certainly worth a stop for anyone craving outdoor adventure with a side of relaxation. Just outside Baltimore, Timonium is home to Loch Raven Reservoir, a serene spot perfect for kayaking or a quiet afternoon of fishing. It will truly give your family the lakeside experience you need for a relaxing vacation. However, if you prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, Meadowood Regional Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including walking trails and sports fields, and it's a dog-friendly space, too. This town is best known for hosting the Maryland State Fair, featuring horse races and exhibitions, combined with live music, food, and games the entire family can enjoy. Timonium’s mix of accessible outdoor spaces means you can enjoy everything from a peaceful paddle on the lake to a brisk hike through woodlands, all within minutes of town. With Baltimore just a stone’s throw away, Timonium is an underrated destination for outdoor lovers looking to escape the city hustle without straying too far from home.
Conclusion
The eight best lakeside towns along the Atlantic Coast have a knack for blending outdoor adventure with quiet charm. These towns offer more than just postcard views; they are the kind of places where you can canoe across a calm lake in the morning, hike through wooded trails in the afternoon, and still have time to enjoy a local meal by sunset. You can be fishing, kayaking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty. These lakeside retreats let you recharge without the crowds. Plus, with so many tucked away just off the beaten path, they give you a chance to experience the kind of laid-back, local vibe that is hard to find in their big city counterparts.
