10 Best Towns on the Atlantic Coast For A Two-Day Recharge
The U.S. Atlantic Coast spans a vast expanse of the country. The coast extends from Maine in the north to Florida in the south, and it also encompasses many other states, including Delaware and South Carolina. Considering its vast size, it should come as no surprise that many perfect destinations in the area make for the perfect vacation. If you are looking to recharge for the weekend, consider any of these towns for your next getaway.
Key West, Florida
The island city of Key West is known for its incredible coastal destinations and serves as a popular vacation spot. For a recharge, stay at Southermost Beach Resort, where you can enjoy luxurious suites near the beach. Guests enjoy Caribbean cuisine and drinks from the café along with numerous amenities, like the on-site spa and poolside cabanas. The nearby Fort Zachary Taylor Historic Site is a fantastic place to learn about a fort that has stood since before the Civil War. Afterward, you can hit the park beach for a day of snorkeling or enjoying oceanside beach hut rentals. Nature lovers will also want to visit the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, which features interactive exhibits that explore the surrounding coral barrier reef, the animals that inhabit it, and ongoing research in the area.
St. Augustine, Florida
The town of St. Augustine is perfect for a recharge thanks to its many waterside activities. The Conch House Motel is particularly popular, offering a lounge and restaurant for guests to enjoy. However, its biggest feature is the marina, a 200 wet slip that reaches out onto Salt Run and is perfect for boat owners docking nearby. Those chartering time on the water can book with Eco Tours, which sets out by boat, sailboat, and kayak for days of dolphin spotting or excursions into the surrounding salt marshes. Visitors can also enjoy relaxing days at Crescent Beach. Guests will often find surfers and boogie boarders to admire from the shores while enjoying a day walking the sands or taking a dip in the water.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket is an island town located off Cape Cod and adjacent to Nantucket Sound. A popular summertime destination, visitors to the area will particularly appreciate Cliffside Beach Club. Guests to the club can rent rooms and suites with clear views of the ocean while remaining just a mile from the center of town. Sightseers will want to head out to Brant Point Lighthouse, a 1901 lighthouse tower that is perfect for picture takers. The historic site is actually the ninth station to stand on the spot, with previous lighthouses dating back to colonial times. Nearby, you can head out onto the water with Nantucket By Water. This company offers visitors tours of the surrounding Cape Cod and neighboring islands, with some cruises featuring shanty singers who entertain as the sun sets.
St. Simons Island, Georgia
St. Simons Island sits alongside the Mackay River and the Saint Simons Sound. The Ocean Inn and Suites is popular among those seeking to recharge, offering boutique luxury suites with stunning ocean views of the nearby waters. Guests can easily walk down to Neptune Park for a day along the shore or play golf on the 18-hole miniature golf course. Around the corner, the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum welcomes guests to learn more about the lighthouse, which has stood since 1868. Afterward, you can end your day at Iguanas Seafood Restaurant for an evening enjoying fresh seafood from the patio while taking in the ocean air.
Edgartown, Massachusetts
Edgartown is situated on the renowned Martha’s Vineyard and is now a popular summer vacation destination. Those hoping to recharge will enjoy the Harbor View Hotel, which offers stunning ocean views from its luxurious suites. Nearby, the Carnegie Heritage Center offers hour-long guided walking tours of the town. These tours explore some of the historic sites in town, like the Old Whaling Church and the 1766 Cooke House and Gardens. Not far away, the Mytoi Japanese Gardens are another relaxing destination in the area, offering a 14-acre Japanese-inspired garden for visitors to enjoy. Duckboard paths cross sand and stone trails through pine trees and shrubs, creating a serene environment in which to relax.
Newburyport, Massachusetts
Newburyport is located where the Merrimack River empties into the Atlantic Ocean. Among the coziest stays in town is The Compass Rose Inn, located in the heart of historic downtown. The inn offers a homemade breakfast in the morning and luxuriously appointed suites within an impressively designed Federal-style structure. Nearby, visitors can enjoy a day along the river at Waterfront Park. The boardwalk runs along the river, and guests to the park might be lucky enough to attend one of the annual festivals. The Riverfront Music Festival is particularly popular among those who enjoy live music and want to experience the stunning views of the riverside. Those enjoying the water will want to drop in at the Tuscan Sea Grill and Bar for locally sourced seafood and gelato desserts served alongside glasses of wine and incredible views of the Merrimack River.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Several bodies of water, such as Broad Creek, Baynard Cove, and southern Calibogue Sound, surround Hilton Head Island. Marriott's Grande Ocean is the ideal destination for those seeking to unwind. This hotel boasts oceanfront villas with premium views, as well as an on-site restaurant, spa, fitness center, and more. Nearby, guests can walk Coligny Beach Park, enjoying landscaped walking trails and unique public art installations along the beach. From the park, it is not far to Let’s Book It, where you can book a sunset dinner cruise or a cruise that takes you out for a day of dolphin spotting.
Bar Harbor, Maine
The town of Bar Harbor is a cozy destination located on Mount Desert Island, adjacent to Mt. Desert Narrows and Frenchman Bay. The Pathmaker Hotel is one of the most convenient places to stay. Directly in the center of town, this boutique hotel puts guests just minutes away from the water. Not far away is Agamont Park, a lively park with trails that run alongside the ocean. However, if you are in the mood for music, the Bar Harbor Village Green hosts live performances as part of its Summer Concert Series. Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company is also a popular stop. Visitors can head out by boat for a day of bird spotting that includes puffins and seabirds. Guests can also enjoy a day of whale watching in the Gulf of Maine while admiring nearby landmarks, like the lighthouses that line the area.
Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City is a popular resort town located between the Isle of Wight Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors will find relaxing days ahead at the Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort. The resort is situated directly on the beach, and rooms offer unobstructed views of the water. Not far away, you can enjoy unparalleled views of the waters at OC Parasail. In operation for 75 years, OC Parasail takes guests up to heights of 400 to 800 feet in the air. Those who want to stay closer to the ocean level can enjoy Seacrets Cruises. A floating tiki cruise that features a full-service bar throughout the day, the most popular choice is the sunset cruise, during which guests can enjoy gorgeous views of the sun as it sets for the day.
Ogunquit, Maine
The tiny town of Ogunquit, situated along the Atlantic Ocean, is the perfect place for a coastal retreat. The Beachmere Inn places visitors directly on the water, offering access to amenities such as an on-site spa, massage rooms, and a casual bistro. Ogunquit Beach is located just minutes away and invites visitors to walk its sandy shores, take a dip in the ocean waters, or enjoy a day of picnicking. The beach has actually been voted one of America’s best and is a must-see destination for those hoping to enjoy relaxing times under the sun. You can also relax in town at the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, where more than 3,000 works of art are on display. Guests can enjoy pinatings inside or walk the seaside sculpture garden for a relaxing afternoon of contemplation.
Recharging Along The Atlantic Coast
The Atlantic Coast is a vast stretch of the United States, and it should come as no surprise that it is incredibly diverse. From the tropical environments of Florida in the south to the cooler weather of Maine in the north, there is a destination for everyone who wants to vacation along the Atlantic. If you are looking for a place to recharge for two days, pick one of these ten towns for your next stop.
