7 Adorable Small Towns on the Atlantic Coast to Visit in 2024
From the northern coasts of Maine to the southern beaches of Florida, the Atlantic Coast of the United States is a long and varied place of geographic splendor. Here, breathtaking vistas, beautiful ocean waves, and loads of cool breezes make the towns and communities truly unique and special destinations to visit. Add in fascinating histories of America鈥檚 past, and these great towns on the US Atlantic Coast are true treasures waiting to be experienced in 2024. So come visit the American Atlantic Coast and see these adorable and inviting towns that will surely create lasting memories for all ages of travelers.
Beaufort, North Carolina
Founded in 1713, the charming and scenically beautiful town of Beaufort is one of America鈥檚 prettiest Atlantic Coast towns. Home to a modern population of just under 4,500 inhabitants, this seat of Carteret County is one of North Carolina鈥檚 oldest colonial settlements, and its historic character continues to shine. Visit the Historic District and view several preserved landmarks from the 18th and 19th centuries, many of which are also included on the National Register of Historic Places. And do not forget about the horse-drawn carriages, where a relaxing ride along the cobblestones makes for quite a romantic and time-travel-like experience.
From there, visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum or take in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Beaufort Wine and Food Festival in the summertime. As a coastal community, there is never a shortage of beautiful views to be had. In addition to the Atlantic Ocean, guests can appreciate splendid panoramas of the Newport River and Beaufort Inlet. A hot and humid climate makes Beaufort a most pleasurable locale throughout the year.
New Shoreham, Rhode Island
New Shoreham is situated on Block Island and is the State of Rhode Island鈥檚 southernmost community. Established back in the mid 17th century, this historic town boasts a modern population of nearly 1,500 residents and it remains a most popular summer tourist destination. With its stunning views of the Atlantic, lush and rolling green hills, and dramatic rock formations (including the Mohegan Bluffs) it is easy to see why New Shoreham and Block Island attract so many.
Enjoy opportunities for swimming, sailing, and sunbathing, while even just casual strolls along the coastline make any visit here a most picturesque one. Meanwhile, several historic structures continue to delight guests, like the Southeast Lighthouse (1875), while an afternoon at the Block Island Historical Society Museum offers fascinating insights into the history of Rhode Island and the New England Region. Add a cute assortment of local restaurants and shops, and this is one Atlantic Coast town that anybody in Rhode Island will surely not want to miss out on.
Fort Pierce, Florida
A part of Florida鈥檚 Treasure Coast, Fort Piece is a beautiful town where the splendor of the Atlantic and the hot sun never disappoints. The seat of St. Lucie County, with a foundational history dating to the mid-1800s, today, just over 47,000 inhabitants call Fort Pierce home. A popular tourist destination, thousands of guests arrive annually to appreciate the area鈥檚 stunning natural and artificial reefs. At the same time, warm breezes, hot temperatures, and loads of pretty beaches fill out the landscape. Enjoy opportunities for swimming, sailing, sunbathing, and even diving; there is always a fun activity to do while in Fort Pierce.
In addition, a charming historic district is a great way to discover the past, and several landmarks are even listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Boston House (1909) and the Sunrise Theatre (1923). And from there, do not forget about Old Fort Pierce Park or the Heathcote Botanical Gardens, where a truly photogenic experience awaits.
Old Saybrook, Connecticut
The town of Old Saybrook was formally established in the 1730s, and today, it remains a popular weekend getaway for all ages. Home to modern population of nearly 10,500 residents, this scenic community along the mouth of the Connecticut River (leading to the Atlantic) is a place of great charm. Spend a day at Harveys Beach where sailing, swimming, and sunbathing are always popular, while local vendors and musicians can often be found nearby.
Meanwhile as a historic colonial settlement, guests can also appreciate plenty of landmarks and historic intrigue across town. Visit the Fenwick Historic District, which has a number of properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Including the Black Horse Tavern (1712) and the James Pharmacy (1820) amongst many others, the character of Old Saybrook is never hard to find. And do not forget about the 48 foot tall Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse (1886), where astounding river and ocean views await!
St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine was founded by Spanish colonists way back in 1565, thus making it the oldest European settlement in North America. A veritable place of living history, this Atlantic Coast town is a most fascinating destination where alluring stories of the past meet splendid natural settings. Home to just over 14,000 residents, the seat of St. Johns County truly delights with historic character.
Explore a number of Spanish-style landmarks from the 16th to 19th centuries, each with its own unique story about the region鈥檚 growth. These include the Castillo de San Marcos (1672), the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park, and the Fort Matanzas (1740), among many more that are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Bristol, Rhode Island
Founded in the 1680s, Bristol serves as the seat of the same named county where, today, just over 22,000 inhabitants reside. A beautiful and charming historic center, Bristol offers a wonderful blend of historic intrigue with stunning natural surroundings, creating an awesome atmosphere for a weekend trip. Admire picturesque Atlantic Ocean views and spend time at inviting parks like the Blithewold Gardens and Arboretum, where additional panoramas create the perfect picture-taking opportunities.
And with a comfortable summertime climate of temperatures typically in the low 80 degrees F, enjoying opportunities for swimming, sailing, kayaking, and even cycling never go out of style. Meanwhile, as a historic colonial community, visitors can also experience several historic landmarks that form a part of the National Register of Historic Places. Including the Waterfront Historic District, the Mount Hope Farm (1745), and the Bristol Ferry Lighthouse (1855), amongst many others, the special New England charm of Bristol is on full display for all ages to enjoy.
McClellanville, South Carolina
Surrounded by the Francis Marion National Forest, the adorable fishing village of McClellanville is one of South Carolina鈥檚 best Atlantic Coast treasures. Awesome activities like cycling, hiking, camping, and picnicking make this one destination that both the ardent and casual outdoors person can relish. With a modern history dating to the 1860s, today just over 600 permanent residents call this most special community home. Enjoy fishing, shrimping, and oystering for a special experience, while swimming and sailing remain ever popular.
McClellanville鈥檚 historic district is also a charming place to spend an afternoon. Several local landmarks, such as the Hampton Plantation State Historic Site and Harrietta Plantation, are even included on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Atlantic Coast of the United States spans several States, from the northern shores of Maine and Rhode Island to the southern splendors of South Carolina and Florida. While each may have its own history and regional cultures, what unites the splendid towns along the coastline are awesome ocean breezes, breathtaking panoramas, and a charming community spirit that makes these adorable centers great places to spend a holiday. And so, when planning one鈥檚 holiday, make sure to include America鈥檚 Atlantic Coast, where a multitude of choices exist, ready to create a vacation experience that will surely delight the young, old, and everyone in between!
