12 Stress-Free Atlantic Coast Towns For A Weekend Retreat
The Atlantic Coast was built for the short vacation. Its towns grew up close together along old harbors and rail lines, and most sit within a few hours of home for millions of Americans. The sea breeze keeps summer afternoons cooler here than anywhere inland. Working harbors mean the seafood on your plate came off a boat that morning. In Chincoteague, the wild ponies swim the channel each July while the whole island watches from the marsh. Twelve towns along this shoreline turn two days off into a real vacation.
Chincoteague, Virginia
Chincoteague is an island at the northern tip of the eastern shore of Virginia that everyone should visit at least once. Ringed by the Chincoteague Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, this island is famous for the Chincoteague Pony Roundup, Swim & Auction (also referred to as Pony Penning), held at the end of July each year. If you can't make it to Chincoteague then, never fear; there is plenty more to see and do here at any time of the year.
The ultimate stress-buster is a trip to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. Here, you can see over 320 species of birds, as well as endangered and threatened wildlife, and appreciate a spotless beach and 15 miles of hiking trails. Delight in a comfortable, relaxing, coastal meal and a beverage or two at AJs on the Creek. One of the nicest stress-free accommodation choices in Chincoteague is Key West Cottages, with awesome views of the bay and amenities galore.
Mystic, Connecticut
Sitting along the Mystic River, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean, the town of Mystic is a Connecticut coastal community that is easily accessible. Olde Mystick Village is one of its highlights. This open-air shopping and dining area is family- and pet-friendly, and is reminiscent of a New England maritime village from the 1700s. Walking around the village is a great way to enjoy a stress-free day. End the day with a bite and a brew at Jealous Monk.
The Inn at Mystic sits on 14 acres and provides luxurious but affordable accommodations, ensuring your weekend remains stress-free. If you want to learn more about the town's history, visit the Mystic Seaport Museum, featuring an entirely recreated 19th-century maritime village.
Chatham, Massachusetts
Chatham is at the elbow of Cape Cod in Massachusetts and gives visitors a break from the crowds found in the busier resort area. Off the beaten path, Chatham, incorporated in 1712, combines history with peaceful coastal beauty. Its isolation and position along the coast draw thousands each year who are looking for a peaceful vacation.
The Chatham Light overlooks Lighthouse Beach and is an active US Coast Guard station. Stage Harbor Light, Chatham's other lighthouse, has stood near the end of Harding's Beach since 1880 and rewards the flat walk out to see it. Chatham Bars Inn pampers guests with the best of both worlds: stress-free accommodations with private beachfront access. Its eateries include the Beach House Grill and the Sacred Cod, both serving local seafood and farm-to-table dining options.
Lewes, Delaware
The northernmost beach in Delaware, Lewes sits on the Delaware Bay where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. Its slower pace and quiet atmosphere lure thousands of visitors yearly. One of Lewes' most beautiful and serene attractions is Cape Henlopen State Park, with more than 5,000 acres and six miles of pristine beach. The Hotel Rodney, a boutique hotel with a prime location in downtown Lewes, is in a building built in the 1920s. Rooms and suites are available.
Another stress-free activity in Lewes is a visit to the Zwaanendael Museum. This museum holds much of Lewes' storied Dutch history, and its fascinating exhibits on local shipwrecks and colonial artifacts can give you a leisurely afternoon. Check out The Station on Kings, a local cafe, bakery, and garden market offering a little bit of everything.
Little Compton, Rhode Island
Just across the Sakonnet River from the larger town of Newport, you'll find Little Compton, a historic Rhode Island town incorporated by the Plymouth Colony in 1682. Little Compton gives guests a more serene, less busy atmosphere, perfect for a stress-free getaway. One of its low-stress attractions is South Shore Beach, a secluded beach open Memorial Day through Labor Day. A relaxed lodging option, Stone House Inn sits right on the sea and dates to 1854.
Little Compton is part of Rhode Island's Farm Coast, and it doesn't disappoint. Wishing Stone Farm has been around for 40 years and has a farmer's market selling its USDA Certified Organic produce. Wine lovers should explore Sakonnet Vineyard, which was planted in 1975 and ranks as the oldest commercial winery in New England since Prohibition.
Surfside Beach, South Carolina
A stress-free family vacation is awaiting you at Surfside Beach in South Carolina. While it may be part of the Grand Strand and just nine miles from the busier Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach is a small town with a quieter, friendlier vibe. The Surfside Beach Fishing Pier is a popular spot for some of the best views of the Atlantic Ocean as well as for fishing. All Children's Park is a great example of why Surfside Beach was the first autism-friendly certified destination in the US. Its picnic area and playground are designed for children of all abilities.
Eateries like Bubba's Fish Shack and Surfside Charlies both offer gorgeous views of the ocean, but keep in mind that they don't accept reservations. Surfside Beach Oceanfront Hotel is the ultimate in relaxed lodging, with ocean views available from every room.
Stone Harbor, New Jersey
If you are looking for a quiet, upscale, small beach town in New Jersey, head to Stone Harbor. The town sits on a seven-mile-long barrier island north of Cape May, and gives visitors a real stress-free escape from everyday life. The Bird Sanctuary exemplifies the quietude of Stone Harbor. Sitting on over 20 acres, this sanctuary has trails where you can bask in serenity and view waterfowl, wildlife, and butterflies. Don't miss Stone Harbor Point, a natural conservation area that promotes serenity and communing with nature.
Taylor Swift fans might want to check out Coffee Talk, where the singer is said to have played guitar as a teen. While you aren't likely to find her there now, you will find more than 20 coffees, baked goods, and more. The island getaway is complete when you stay at The Reeds at Shelter Haven, a lavish hotel which facilitates serene stays for all guests, and activities to keep kids busy.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
New Hampshire is one of the least-stressed states in the nation, according to WalletHub, and Portsmouth may be its most relaxed town. The historic town contains architectural gems, like Moffat-Ladd House & Garden Museum, also known as the William Whipple house, once home to a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The Bow Hotel on the waterfront provides a boutique hotel accommodation right in the heart of the historic district.
Visit Prescott Park and revel in the beautiful serenity of its gardens at all times of the year. Or you might opt to go to Peirce Island, 27 acres owned by the town of Portsmouth, which features a large salt-water outdoor pool, walking paths, and rocky tidal areas. At the end of the day, dine at Row 34, where you can savor local seafood and drinks year-round.
St. Augustine, Florida
The oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the continental United States, St. Augustine was founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers. Today, the Florida town is prized by visitors for its blend of history, charm, coastal beauty, and relaxation. History surrounds you in St. Augustine, such as the Colonial Quarter, where you will find living history exhibits with interpreters in costume. There are plenty of eateries in this area as well, like Bull & Crown, which sits on the former home of a Minorcan carpenter and serves beverages and food on a deck overlooking the town.
Be sure to stop by the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, a Spanish fortress from the 17th century with wide coastal views. For a truly worry-free stay, choose Casa Monica Resort & Spa. Built in 1888, this luxurious resort is right in the middle of the historic district and has a full run of amenities.
Montauk, New York
Montauk, also referred to as "The End," sits on Long Island's eastern tip. Its remoteness can sometimes make visitors feel as if they have reached the end of the world, which is ideal for a stress-free getaway. Montauk Manor Resort is the ultimate in relaxed accommodations. Amenities at this wellness retreat include a pool, spa, sauna, and fitness center.
The Montauk Point Lighthouse, authorized by President George Washington in 1792, was the first lighthouse built in New York State and is still working today. It helps to light the way for ships against the rough surf and high winds found in the area. Don't miss Montauk Point State Park, where you can hunt, fish, hike, picnic, and take pleasure in the views of the ocean and Block Island Sound. After spending a day in the park or at the beach, grab a bite and a drink at The Surf Lodge Restaurant, where indoor and outdoor dining options are available.
Rockland, Maine
Coastal relaxation blended with arts and culture in a working harbor town perfectly describes Rockland, Maine. This town on Penobscot Bay is known as the "Lobster Capital of the World," and you can spend part of your trip relaxing at Claws, eating lobster rolls, while watching lobster traps being brought in. If arts and culture interest you, check out the Strand Theatre, established in 1923. It hosts films, live concerts, theater performances, and more.
The Farnsworth Art Museum is the highlight of a trip to Rockland for art lovers, as it houses a huge collection of art by Andrew, N.C., and Jamie Wyeth. For stress-free accommodations that won't put too much of a strain on your wallet, stay at 250 Main Hotel, a boutique hotel right on the harbor.
Southport, North Carolina
Southport, North Carolina sits where the Cape Fear River meets the Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean, inspiring a slower-paced, less crowded getaway than other waterfront towns. It is part of the Brunswick Islands of North Carolina. Southport Waterfront Park, with nine acres along the waterfront is the ideal spot from which to view fishing vessels and savor sunsets. Visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport to learn more about the area's seafaring history.
Mr. P.'s Bistro serves local Lowcountry cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to unwind after walking around town. For a waterfront bed-and-breakfast experience, stay at the Robert Ruark Inn downtown. In addition to comfortable accommodations, the inn serves guests a full breakfast as well as an afternoon wine and cheese hour.
De-Stress Along the Atlantic Coast
Scale is what these towns have in common. Each one is small enough to learn in a morning and full enough to hold an entire weekend. The harbor still works in Southport, the ponies still swim at Chincoteague, and the light at Chatham has burned since 1808. Wherever you land along this coastline, the town will set the pace and it will be a slow one.
