Summer is in full swing, and with fall on the horizon, there’s still time to plan your last summer weekend trip! New England (just a few hours from NYC) is an ideal location, which is home to plenty of sandy beaches, historic lighthouses, quaint boutiques, and delicious seafood. Perfect for a little escape from the hustle and bustle of NYC, we asked our friends over at Boston Uncovered to help debunk the most gorgeous small coastal towns that feel like a serene getaway.
Bookmark these New England coastal towns for your next vacation, because they are truly a breath of fresh air.
1. Newport, Rhode Island
The first stop on our New England road trip is in Newport, Rhode Island…whose Gilded Age mansions, stunning coastal views, and sailing culture makes it absolutely incredible. There’s plenty to do here, but we suggest starting with their incredible architecture, more specifically The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms mansions. These historical “cottages” that America’s wealthiest used to vacation in are jaw-dropping and feel straight out of Europe.
Next, venture water-wards and stake a stroll along the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile pathway on the Newport’s shore offering further views of the mansions and glimpses of Easton’s and Bailey’s Beaches. Other great highlights include the International Tennis Hall of Fame, Touro Synagogue (oldest synagogue in US), and Fort Adams State Park.
End your itinerary walking around Thames Street and Bowen’s Wharf, which are each lined with seafood restaurants, boutique shops, and art galleries.
2. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
You can technically spend a week in Martha’s Vineyard, since there’s so many quaint little coastal towns you can bop around. Some of them in particular include historic Edgartown, vibrant Oak Bluffs, and bustling Vineyard Haven. During the summer, you can take a ferry from Long Island out to Massachusetts, and explore the likes of South Beach, Joseph Sylvia State Beach, and Moshup Beach, which are the most popular in the area.
Other activities to cross off your Martha’s Vineyard bucket list include stopping by Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse (historic theater), seeing the Aquinnah Cliffs and Aquinnah Lighthouse, and taking the ferry to Chappaquiddick Island to see the Mytoi Japanese Garden. Not to mention all the farm-to-table restaurants, shopping boutiques, and seasonal events.
3. Kennebunkport, Maine
The first of our few hand selected spots in Maine is Kennebunkport, a charming and historic town known for its maritime heritage. Start by exploring their beautiful Goose Rocks Beach and Colony Beach before checking out popular attractions like the Seashore Trolley Museum (world’s oldest and largest electric railway museum) and Walker’s Point (summer home of the Bush family). On the way to Dock Square’s boutique shops and cafes, you’ll probably pass by St. Ann’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, one of the most beautiful buildings you’ll ever see.
Some of our local recommendations include going on a Downeast-style lobster boat tour with Rugosa Lobster Tours, strolling down Ocean Avenue, and embarking on a whale watching tour with First Chance Whale Watch.
4. Ogunquit, Maine
Venture out to Ogunquit, Maine, where its popular Ogunquit Beach is the star of the show. You can go swimming and sunbathe here to your heart’s desire, and if you’re feeling adventurous even walk over to Marginal Way, an incredible cliff walk overlooking the ocean. Once you’re done by the water, head into town to explore popular attractions like Perkins Cove, a cute fishing village with shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants, as well as cultural hot spots like the Ogunquit Museum of American Art and Ogunquit Playhouse. If you have some spare time, consider doing a boat tour (which ranges from deep-sea fishing excursions to cocktail cruises)…we prefer Finestkind Scenic Cruises.
5. Mystic, Connecticut
Just one state away in Connecticut resides Mystic, a seaside town with plenty of family-friendly attractions and charming maritime history. Popular attractions to visit (if you’re not cruising around a boat), include The Mystic Seaport Museum detailing the village’s maritime history, and the Mystic Aquarium which includes tons of marine life exhibits that are great for kids. Their Old Historic Downtown is super cute, and features all kinds of shopping, dining, and nightlife…including the famous Mystic Pizza which you must try.
6. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Situated beautifully on the Piscataqua River, Portsmouth is one of New Hampshire’s coastal gems that’s full of 17th century seafront heritage. Start by exploring the Strawbery Banke Museum, an outdoor history museum depicting life from the 17th century onward, and Prescott Park, known for its beautiful gardens and summer arts festival. Then head into the town’s Market Square which offers a glimpse of their lively arts scene (The Music Hall), maritime history (USS Albacore Submarine and Museum), and shops and restaurants.
7. Block Island, RI
Hop on the ferry from Montauk to Block Island, and you’ll be delighted to one of the more serene coastal towns on this list. It’s a little lesser known known than other getaways on this list, and it’s one of the best for a nature-focused excursion. Their beaches (Crescent Beach, Mansion Beach, Frederick J Benson Town Beach) are some of the best in Rhode Island, offering the perfect spot to swim, snorkel, parasail, and more. Adding to the charm, the jaw-dropping Mohegan Bluffs provide stunning hiking trails and ocean views, and the Block Island Southeast Light lighthouse is iconic.
8. Rockport, Massachusetts
Rockport, Massachusetts is home to all kinds of wholesome attractions, like the iconic Motif No. 1, a historic fishing shack that has become a symbol of the town. There’s plenty of idyllic maritime and natural landmarks here, including their pristine beaches, such as Front Beach and Pebble Beach, as well as Halibut Point State Park and Bearskin Neck, a notable street filled with art galleries, shops, and dining spots.
9. Narragansett, Rhode Island
We may be biased but Narragansett Town Beach might just be one of the best beaches in Rhode Island. Not only are the wide sandy shores perfect for swimming and lounging, but you can also catch a glimpse of the The Towers from the coast. Other lovely attractions to check off your list include exploring the historic Point Judith Lighthouse, walking down The Narragansett Pier, and having a meal at The Coast Guard House Restaurant. Narragansett is truly all about the beaches, so if you’re looking to capitalize on that head here!
10. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod may the most touristy coastal town on this list, but it still deserves the recognition it rightfully gets. The popular waterfront summer destination is out in the Atlantic Ocean and is therefore the perfect spot for all sorts of water activities and beach days. You can hop around quaint towns like Provincetown, Chatham, and Hyannis if you want to shop or eat, and you can do unique activities like whale watching, biking, and lighthouse visits to fully immerse yourself.
Some hotspots we recommend: Whydah Pirate Museum, Heritage Museums & Gardens, and Cape Cod National Seashore.
11. Gloucester, Massachusetts
Just northeast of Boston lies Gloucester, a spot where many tourists seem to overlook (and is our little secret). Particularly Wingaersheek Beach, which has super clear water and is really only visited by Massachusetts locals, making it serene and quiet. Alongside that, add the Cape Ann Museum, Fishermen’s Memorial, Eastern Point Lighthouse, and Good Harbor Beach to your list too. It’s our hidden gem along the Mass coast.
12. Bar Harbor, Maine
Just a stone’s throw away from Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is the “connecting piece” if you will, that provides a glistening coastline and views of Cadillac Mountain. This spot is a popular weekend destination for many hikers (both in the park and along the Shore Path along the ocean) and nature lovers alike (check out lookout spot called Thunder Hole). There’s a few museums as well worth your while, including the Abbe Museum (Native American heritage) and George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History.
13. Watch Hill, Rhode Island
This quiet little town still packs a punch, and when you’re not off snapping photos of Taylor Swift’s $17.75M vacation home called “High Watch” you can still see some nautical landmarks including historic Watch Hill Lighthouse and the Flying Horse Carousel, one of the oldest in the country. Not to mention Watch Hill’s beaches are absolutely pristine, with the most popular one being East Beach.
After a quality beach day, head to Napatree Point, their unique village center to shop, have dinner, and grab ice cream at St. Clair’s Annex…then find a spot to watch the sunset over Little Narragansett Bay.
14. Newburyport, Massachusetts
Newburyport, Massachusetts may have one of our favorite downtown areas on this list…their Market Square is filled with some of the area’s best shops and art galleries. The coastal hotspot is home to the Custom House Maritime Museum, which showcases Newburyport’s maritime heritage, as well as The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge and Maudslay State Park which encourages visitors to take in the natural beauty of the town. Our perfect day recommendation is a whale watching tour and then grabbing a drink after at Newburyport Brewing Company.
15. Camden, Maine
Closing out our list is Camden, Maine, a charming town whose waterfront Camden Harbor is nothing short of incredible. You can take boat tours from here that let you take in the village from afar. While you’re here, be sure to plan a hike at Camden Hills State Park and take in all of the cultural elements of the city like the Maine Lighthouse Museum and Camden Public Library. This is one of the best places in Maine for an outdoor activity trip…perfect for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and boating in the harbor.