The Best Small Towns on the Atlantic Coast to Chill Out In 2024
When did life get so hectic and out of control? For those who live in the hustle and bustle of city life, this is even more apropos. A vacation feels like more of the same, because when you get back, the busyness is still there waiting. What is needed is a place to decompress, calm the spirits, and chill out, even if for just the weekend.
Fortunately, there are plenty of quaint and delightful Atlantic Coast towns that specialize in issuing their guests a pass from the hectic to the serene. If you are ready to take a step away from the grind, the chaos, the clutter, and the frustration of everyday life, perhaps one of these towns will be exactly what you seek. They are fun, interesting, often historic, and will enchant your spirit while ensuring a true respite in 2024.
St. Augustine, Florida
This historic town will always be a fan favorite because it has a ton to offer without much of the typical crowds and traffic of many tourist destinations. If you find peace in a beach setting, St. Augustine has one of the loveliest beaches on the entire Florida coastline. However, with so much culture within the town, the beaches are not the major draw, so there is ample room to relax.
History buffs will appreciate touring the Spanish forts, including Fort Matanzas, Castillo de San Marcos, and Fort Mose, still standing after over 300 years, and every inch of them available for tourist exploration. The views from the top are a great way to see much of the town from a bird’s eye view, bask in the warmth of the Florida sun, and take in the beauty of the ocean.
Nature enthusiasts can’t get enough of the numerous trails and boardwalks that are not only great ways to experience the flora and fauna of Florida but will learn how America’s first settlement was also the first Freed Slave settlement, even before the Underground Railroad. Don’t forget to take a dip in the Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park.
Bethany Beach, Delaware
A not-so-hidden gem, Bethany Beach boasts a whopping population of just under 1,000 loyal citizens. Tourists find a quiet sense of calmness amongst its tranquil beach areas and quaint downtown, which promotes relaxation and the desire to explore tax-free shopping.
Many visitors take to the water to find their center on one of the many kayak tours, paddleboard tours, and even eco-tours, or if they want to tackle nature, can rent a surfboard and tame the waves. If none of this is on your to-do list, take a quick hop to Fenwick Island State Park and flee the growing crowds to a more private beach play space.
Nothing says chilling out quite like partaking of the local fare. Watch an ocean sunset with a delicious meal or tropical drink at Big Chill Beach Club or stroll down the Bethany Boardwalk where you will find numerous dining possibilities and boutique shops.
Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina
Also known as O’Sullivan’s Island, this gorgeous hamlet is full of natural wonders, oodles of history, and a three-mile beach that must be explored to be truly appreciated. See both the endless Atlantic and Charleston Harbor, as well as the Isle of Palms, all while absorbing the glory of incredible sunrises and sunsets.
As is often the case, O’Sullivan Island was a prime location to deter water invasions and one of its many historical wonders worth checking out is Fort Moultrie which was instrumental during campaigns from the Revolutionary War up until WWII. Since you are there anyway, the O’Sullivan Island Lighthouse, also known as the Charlestown Light, has a background of its own.
Rent a bike or take a stroll to view the stunning homes, historic churches, and unique island views, then find your way to iconic dining spots such as Poe’s Tavern, named for the famed author and poet, or perhaps High Thyme Cuisine where those who love shellfish can get it fresher than fresh every day.
Amelia Island, Florida
Just north of Jacksonville, Amelia Island is the getaway for those who want to experience a little more luxury while still reveling in the charm of a smaller beach town, Don’t let this dissuade you. Amelia Island is still very family friendly with lovely beaches, plenty of fishing, and lots to do.
Classic auto enthusiasts flock to the island once a year for the Amelia Auto Auction put on by Gooding & Company where some of the most impressive, incredible, and expensive vehicles are sold to collectors and hobbyists alike. To some, this is their idea of relaxing. To others, throwing in a line off the George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier is much more their speed.
Gaze at “original Florida” through your own eyes as you explore the 200 acres of protected unspoiled wilderness at the southern end of the island. Participate in horseback riding on one of the few East Coast beaches that allow it, look for shells to take home as souvenirs, or engage in water recreation.
Owl’s Head, Maine
Blink and you will miss this delightful little town, but if you do, oh, what a tragedy that would be. That is because the peninsula of Owl’s Head is so full of wonders and interesting attractions, that even the most laid-back tourist will want to experience it all. Crescent Beach, considered a local secret, is on Ginn Point. Much of the area is under the prevue of cottage owners but public access is still available in designated spaces.
Then, after embracing the beauty, make your way to the Owl’s Head Transportation Museum, a large collection of classic vehicles, many still in working order. Have you ever had a Seven Napkin Burger? It might be worth a try at the Owl’s Head General Store, and many consider it the best burger in the state. There is no need to dine inside when you are so close to Owl’s Head State Park. Take it to go and have a lovely picnic. Round out your beautiful day with lobster brought in daily at the Ship to Shore Lobster Company and Wharf.
Gloucester, Massachusetts
Chilling out doesn’t always have to mean sitting around and soaking in the sun. Sometimes, it can also mean learning new things, meeting interesting people, and embracing history. If that is your idea of chilling out, Gloucester has enough tours and events celebrating the past to fill your entire itinerary.
If you drove, self-guided tours abound, while those who came by other types of transit can endeavor on a boat tour that can be as short as a few hours to as long as an entire day. The Salem and North Shore tours are private, consume a full day, and take paying customers along the coastline to historic shopping areas, while teaching about the rich past of the area.
The self-guided tours, some of which come with audio commentary, will open your eyes to beautiful churches, cathedrals, many points of interest, and could even result in unexpected whale watching. Or take a tour with 7 Seas Whale Watch.
Beaufort, South Carolina
No matter what time of year you visit this lovely coastal town, you are in for a world of fun and plenty of festival vibes. Special events of every style, taste, and age group greet all comers and the locals love to share them all with eager tourists looking to chill, and in some cases, grill.
The grilling comes from the Bands, Brews, and BBQ party that happens every February, giving the town the delicious aroma of burning meat for Valentine's Day. Perhaps you want more than BBQ and beer. Then Jaycee’s Food Truck Festival is the place to whet your appetite, and this event has a benevolent aftermath as it is designed to raise money for Camp Hope, a safe place for children 7 and older with cognitive disabilities.
Movie enthusiasts are always enchanted as the silver screen showcases new films at Beaufort’s International Film Festival, kids and adults alike will have a blast at the Beaufort Water Festival, and around Christmas time, downtown Beaufort comes alight and alive with thousands of twinkle lights, welcoming the holiday season.
Everyone chills out in their own way. The most important thing in 2024 is you find the way that suits you best and take the opportunity to enjoy these times with those you love and make memories that will keep your spirits bright and peaceful as you head back to the grind. In addition, never take for granted that there are little towns up and down the Atlantic Coast that will always welcome you back when you need a break from ordinary life.
