6 Most Scenic Small Towns on the Atlantic Coast
The Atlantic Coast of the United States is lined with countless seaside communities that combine history with natural beauty. The friendly people who call these places home are an added draw. From the New England character of Mystic to the historic centers of Lewes and Beaufort, these scenic destinations invite visitors to linger awhile. Pair that with the wild ponies of Chincoteague along with the Victorian-era architecture of Cape May for endless travel opportunities. Whether the visit lasts a day or a week these six picks make a strong itinerary for an Atlantic Coast trip.
Mystic, Connecticut
Located midway between Providence and New Haven, the town of Mystic is considered one of the best places to visit for a dose of New England character. Set at the mouth of the Mystic River overlooking Mason's Island, highlights of a visit include the Mystic Seaport Museum for its collection of historic ships and boats, plus maritime history exhibits and educational programs. Another standout attraction is the Mystic Aquarium with its beluga whales, seals, and sea lions.
The downtown area is also fun to explore and is filled with unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants, some of the best set along the waterfront. Visitors who enjoy green spaces will want to include the riverside Peace Sanctuary and the historic Elm Grove Cemetery on their itineraries.
Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May in New Jersey likely needs little introduction. But for those who do not know it, this small town has Atlantic Coast character in abundance. Roughly 48 miles south of Atlantic City, the feel here leans toward elegance rather than glitz, with its Victorian architecture, its cultural heritage, and its natural beauty all making it a favorite destination. The Cape May Historic District is home to the largest concentration of Victorian-era buildings in the country, many of the best now serving as bed-and-breakfast establishments. The Emlen Physick Estate, a fully restored mansion, can be toured and provides insights into the town's past.
The beaches in Cape May are another major draw and are known for their soft sands and family-friendly atmosphere. The two-mile-long Cape May Promenade is another must-do, perfect for leisurely walks or simply soaking up Atlantic Ocean views. Animal lovers will want to include the Cape May Bird Observatory and the Cape May County Park & Zoo.
Chincoteague, Virginia
Head down the coast to Chincoteague, Virginia, and travelers can witness one of the most unique experiences on the East Coast. This scenic island town is famous for its wild ponies, residents of the 14,000-acre Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge that once a year are rounded up for a swim across the Assateague Channel, where some are auctioned off. The refuge is also home to diverse habitats including marshes, forests, and beaches, and provides opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and photography. The adjacent Assateague Island National Seashore is also fun to explore.
Want to get out on the water? A variety of reputable boat tour operators are available on Chincoteague Island that provide close encounters with dolphins, seabirds, and other marine creatures.
Beaufort, South Carolina
The scenic South Carolina town of Beaufort is another great Atlantic Coast destination to discover. Located on Port Royal Island between Charleston and Savannah, this historically rich town is home to many fine examples of antebellum architecture, much of it located within the downtown Beaufort Historic District. A National Historic Landmark, here visitors can stroll moss-draped streets to the Beaufort History Museum with its displays relating to the Native American era through the Civil War and Reconstruction.
The Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park is another must-visit spot and boasts views of the Beaufort River, a marina, and plenty of space for picnics and leisurely walks. It is also a focal point for community events like the Beaufort Water Festival and farmers' markets. Outdoor adventures and camping can be enjoyed at Hunting Island State Park with its historic lighthouse.
Lewes, Delaware
Lewes is located directly across the Delaware Bay from Cape May and offers those lucky enough to visit a blend of history, beaches, and natural beauty to explore. Delaware's oldest community, settled by Dutch whalers in 1631, the Lewes Historic District includes more than 120 fine old buildings, some of the best of which can be seen during the 90-minute guided tours put on by the Lewes Historical Society. A visit to the Zwaanendael Museum is a must-do for its displays relating to the town's founding and Dutch heritage, as is the maritime history on display at the Lewes Life-Saving Station dating from 1882.
For those who enjoy water sports, a visit to the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal provides opportunities for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding, while nature lovers will want to head to Cape Henlopen State Park. Along with its beautiful beaches and scenic walking trails, a number of World War II observation towers make for a dramatic photo backdrop here.
Kennebunkport, Maine
The coastal town of Kennebunkport in Maine is easy to get to from Boston 80 miles to the south thanks to its proximity to the I-95 highway. Highlights of a visit include wandering the town's historic Dock Square with its shops, art galleries, and restaurants, as well as the town's first-rate beaches. Considered to be among Maine's finest, family-friendly Goose Rocks Beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and kayaking.
Interested in learning more about the town's history and architecture? Head to the Seashore Trolley Museum for a look at the world's largest collection of streetcars and trolleys, as well as the Bush Compound at Walker's Point, the summer home of the Bush family. Though not open to the public, it is visible from Ocean Avenue, offering a glimpse into the lives of one of America's most prominent families.
The Final Word
The Atlantic Coast is adorned with more small towns than most people could visit in a lifetime. But that does not mean we should not try. Together, these communities offer opportunities to sample some of the country's most fascinating history, much of it set against a backdrop of tremendous natural beauty. From the historic streets of Lewes to the wild shores of Chincoteague, with stops at Cape May, Beaufort, Kennebunkport, and Mystic along the way, these six scenic small towns on the Atlantic Coast are waiting to be discovered.
