10 Prettiest Towns to Visit on the Atlantic Coast
The Atlantic Coast of the United States stretches from the quaint town of Eastport, Maine, to the more popular Key West, Florida. Best known for its beautiful lighthouses and national and state parks that dot its jagged shores, the region is home to a variety of picturesque small towns. From the Acadia National Park to Mel Fisher’s Treasure Museum, these natural and historical attributes are the "cream of the crop" along the eastern seaboard of the United States. Starting in Bar Harbor, Maine, to Sebastian Island, Florida, uncover ten of the prettiest towns to visit along the Atlantic Coast.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Situated on Mount Desert Island, between Acadia National Park and the Atlantic Ocean, Bar Harbor is a welcoming haven for those who consider themselves avid photographers. Whether it is taking pictures of wild animals along the banks of Eagle Lake in Acadia National Park, enjoying a boat tour out on Frenchman Bay, or hiking the Bar Island Trails, there is something for everyone in this little corner of New England. Downtown Bar Harbor is also home to a variety of dining experiences. The Lompoc Cafe offers great outdoor seating, while CherrySTONES presents more of a laid-back atmosphere. Both serve up a tasty, toasted lobster roll with crispy French fries, a signature dish in the state of Maine.
Rye, New Hampshire
The picturesque town of Rye, located in Rockingham County along the jagged coast of New Hampshire, is home to a plethora of naturalistic qualities. From Rye Harbor State Park to Wallis Sands State Beach to Odiorne Point State Park, there are a multitude of vistas available to capture with the camera lens.
This charming town, with a population of just over 5,000 residents, is rich in history and charm. It proudly features attractions like the Seacoast Science Center, which offers an exciting focus on marine science, and the White Island State Historic Site, home to White Island’s very first lighthouse. Built in 1865, this lighthouse holds a special place as the only offshore lighthouse along New Hampshire’s coast today.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Along with Nantucket County and Nantucket Island, home to three lighthouses, Great Point, the Sankaty Head, and Brant Point, and several beaches, including Siasconset on the eastern side of the island and Surfside to the south, the town of Nantucket, Massachusetts has a lot to offer in the range of photographic opportunities. Two museums, one of them showcasing the history of whaling and the other catering to shipwrecks and heroic rescues, are located in the town of Nantucket.
Nantucket also has a variety of cultural attributes. Laines Observatory allows for a more intimate viewing of the nighttime stars. At the same time, the Wauwinet, an oceanfront resort located between Nantucket National and the Coskata-Coatue wildlife refuges, provides its own sense of comfort.
Cape May, New Jersey
Located in Cape May County and home to the Jersey Shore Alpacas and Cape May Beach, the town of Cape May, New Jersey, has a variety of excellent qualities that make it “picture-perfect,” at least in the range of a small coastal town with just under 3,000 permanent residents.
One of the best assets complementing this oasis of natural beauty is the Cape May Lighthouse, which was first constructed in 1859 and currently provides visitors with stunning views of the panoramic Atlantic Ocean in its almost infinite wonder. There is also Washington Street Mall, located in downtown Cape May, and home to several shops and eateries like Sea Weeds by the Sea and Iccara Italian Bistro.
St. Michaels, Maryland
The quaint town of St. Michaels, situated along the eastern bank of Chesapeake Bay, is home to a great deal more than what would be thought, considering that this town has a population of around 1,000 people. From checking out the majestic view on the widow’s walk of the 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse to visiting one of several museums in town, like St. Michaels Museum, the Classic Motor Museum, or the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, there is a historical thread running through the town of St. Michaels.
Even while viewing a stunning sunset from the shores of Tilghman Island with a loved one, people can see why St. Michaels is one of the prettiest towns along the Atlantic Ocean's coast.
Chincoteague, Virginia
Situated on its own charming island, also called Chincoteague, the coastal town of Chincoteague, Virginia, offers a wonderful array of activities that are perfect for capturing with your camera. Whether it's enjoying a private boat tour around Chincoteague and Assateague islands, watching the playful antics of the wild horses on Assateague Island, or kayaking with friends along the scenic Assateague Canal, there's always something exciting to experience here.
The town itself also has many charming spots worth photographing, such as the historic Timothy Hill House from the early 1800s and the beautiful Robert N. Reed Downtown Waterfront Park.
Nags Head, North Carolina
Often considered one of the most beautiful towns in North Carolina and along the Atlantic coast, Nags Head is renowned for its breathtaking views. Whether you're exploring Jockey’s Ridge State Park, enjoying the thrill at First Flight Adventure Park, strolling along Jennette’s Pier, or visiting the Bodie Island Lighthouse, there's no shortage of scenic spots in and around Nags Head that outdoor lovers will truly appreciate.
For those who enjoy indoor activities, the town also boasts a charming array of shops, museums, and restaurants. Some local favorites include Tortugas Lie, known for its delicious skewered shrimp Barbados, and Mahi Mahi’s Island Grill, which offers a delightful steamed mussel plate.
Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort, South Carolina, offers its own charming attractions, distinct from Beaufort, North Carolina, which is much farther north and homes the Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge. You might enjoy exploring spots like Huntington Island State Park and the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Don’t miss a stroll through downtown Beaufort, where you’ll find the Pat Conroy Literary Center, the Point, and Bay Street. Bay Street, just like many lively downtown areas across the U.S., is filled with cozy mom-and-pop shops, art galleries, and delicious eateries. One favorite is the Saltus River Grill, famous for its seafood dishes like the sea island shrimp paired with savory stone-ground grits.
Tybee Island, Georgia
One of the most delightful weekend escapes along the scenic Atlantic Ocean coast, Tybee Island offers a charming mix of attractions that truly capture the essence of a coastal town. From the historic Tybee Island Lighthouse, dating back to the late 18th century, to Fort Pulaski, honoring those who served in the Civil War, and the charming Cockspur Lighthouse built in the 1830s, this small town of just 3,000 residents is packed with beautiful sights and memorable experiences.
Downtown Tybee Island, centered around Butler Street, is filled with cozy eateries and inviting restaurants like Pier 16 and The Deck Beach Bar and Kitchen. Visitors can enjoy a variety of tours that showcase the town’s natural beauty, whether exploring on your own or capturing stunning moments through your camera lens.
Sebastian, Florida
Located where the Indian River and the St. Sebastian River come together, just under two miles from the Atlantic Ocean's coast, Sebastian, Florida, offers a delightful mix of shops, events, and attractions that make anyone want to grab a camera. You might enjoy visiting Riverview Park for the lively Sound Waves and Sunshine Fest in June, a wonderful celebration of musical talent.
Downtown Sebastian also has plenty to offer. You can take your family to explore Mel Fisher’s Treasure Museum or cool off at the North County Aquatic Center. If you're interested in local history, don't miss the Sebastian Area Historical Museum for a charming glimpse into the past.
From the First Adventure Flight Park and the Wright Brothers in Nags Head, North Carolina, to Fort Pulaski and the remembrance of the Civil War in Tybee Island, Georgia, these ten picturesque towns are only “a drop in the ocean” when it comes to pretty towns to visit along the Atlantic Coast. From Eastport, Maine, the northernmost town along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean to Key West, Florida, the southernmost town along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, there is a natural beauty that begs for a camera.
