9 Of The Most Captivating Small Towns On The Atlantic Coast
From mesmerizing natural landscapes to historic 19th-century lighthouses, well-preserved New England-style structures, and delectable seafood dishes, the Atlantic Coast is famous for many reasons. Whether you would like to explore Canada's Maritimes, visit Florida's sun-kissed destinations, or discover any place in between, if you are ready to make unforgettable new memories in an incredible new place, here are 9 of the most captivating small towns on the Atlantic Coast you need to add to your bucket list.
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Make your way to Eastern Canada to spend some time in Lunenburg. This historic town, set on beautiful Lunenburg Bay, boasts stunning architecture with well-preserved colonial buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. See the colorful structures as you wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, breathing in the fresh air along the Waterfront.
Uncover the town’s fishing heritage in the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic; three floors of exhibits will take you on a fascinating journey into the past. Afterwards, you can sample meticulously crafted spirits at Ironworks Distillery, located in a 1893 heritage building where tools were once produced for shipbuilding. Before you leave town, treat your taste buds one more time to some delicious ice cream flavors at Sweet Treasures Confectionery, served in a homemade waffle cone.
St. Andrews by the Sea, New Brunswick
Welcome to St. Andrews by the Sea, another one of the most captivating small towns on the Atlantic Coast. Situated on the breathtaking Bay of Fundy, home to the world’s highest tides rising up to 52.5 feet, you will be blown away by what you find in this enchanting coastal town. Travel hundreds of years back in time at St. Andrews Blockhouse National Historic Site as you explore the fortification designed for protection during the War of 1812.
Next, surround yourself with the picturesque beauty of Kingsbrae Garden. Soak in the stunning scenery as you meander through more than 50,000 perennials in themed gardens, streams, ponds, an Acadian forest, and an abundance of birds and animals. During low tide, you can take walk across the ocean floor to Ministers Island. This National Historic Site of Canada offers rich history and jaw-dropping coastal views unparalleled anywhere else.
Kennebunkport, Maine
A coastal wonder on the American Atlantic, Kennebunkport is a fascinating town boasting beautiful beaches, historic lighthouses, striking New England-style architecture, and fresh, local seafood. Uncover stunning scenery in and around St. Ann's by the Sea, an oceanfront church situated on Ocean Avenue, overlooking the gorgeous Gulf of Maine. Classical musical concerts are often held here over the summer and are open to the public.
Another site you cannot miss is the Seashore Trolley Museum. This unique electric railroad museum is a fascinating spot for the whole family to visit; both you and the kids will love riding on a vintage trolley from the early 1900s as you explore the heritage railroad. Wildlife lovers can set out to sea with a cruise via First Chance Whale Watch. Take the opportunity to spot minke and humpback whales, lobsters, seals, porpoises, dolphins, and possibly even basking sharks for the ultimate coastal experience.
Narragansett, Rhode Island
Head on over to Narragansett, a popular vacation destination renowned for its stunning beaches and architectural treasures. Get sun-kissed on the scenic Scarborough State Beach, a lovely spot for swimming, picnicking, or saltwater fishing during off-hours. Capture striking photos of the coastline and Point Judith Lighthouse, an octagonal brick building constructed in 1816. The original wooden structure had previously blown down during the Great Gale of September 1815.
Another must-see is The Towers, an iconic landmark where hundreds of cultural events are now held. This famous structure is the last remaining section of the Narragansett Pier Casino, built in the 1880s. It stands as a symbol of good luck, thanks to its incredible resilience, having withstood multiple events, from fires to various hurricanes.
Cape May, New Jersey
With an outstanding display of late-Victorian architecture, it is no surprise that Cape May’s historic district was designated a National Historic Landmark. See the well-preserved buildings dating back to the 1800s as you wander through town, noticing elements of Italianate, Queen Anne, Gothic, and Greek Revival styles blending together. The Southern Mansion, previously known as The George Allen House, is a lovely bed & breakfast dating back to 1863, where warm hospitality and rich history converge.
From there, make your way to the Emlen Physick Estate, where you can tour two floors and see a wonderful example of Victorian Stick Style architecture in an 18-room mansion constructed in 1879. Wine enthusiasts can taste local estate-grown wines paired with gourmet charcuterie boards at Willow Creek Winery & Farm. Get ready for the perfect vineyard escape in one of the most captivating small towns on the Atlantic Coast.
Folly Beach, South Carolina
Make your way further south to explore a hidden gem on the Atlantic. Between remarkable beaches, fascinating festivals, and an abundance of outdoor adventure opportunities, you will find plenty to do in Folly Beach. Experience the slower pace of life as you discover this barrier island bordered by the Folly River and Atlantic Ocean, where you can unlock endless waterfront activities.
Soak in the stunning scenery as you cast a line from The Edwin S. Taylor Fishing Pier, or set out to explore the water with boat tours, kayak rentals, fishing charters, wildlife encounters, or fossil hunting via Charleston Outdoor Adventures. Aside from offering beautiful shorelines to spend some time by the water, the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve is a wonderful spot to see the Morris Island Lighthouse, discover diverse plants and wildlife species, and visit a site of Civil War history.
Ogunquit, Maine
If you would like a taste of the Atlantic while avoiding the crowds, welcome to Ogunquit. This riveting town is filled with treasures, from gorgeous art galleries to spectacular seaside cliff walks, magnificent shopping opportunities, and miles of beaches. Begin by visiting the Ogunquit Museum of American Art. There, you can explore the captivating collections, exhibitions, and events that will take you through Ogunquit's art colonies.
Next, watch an enchanting show at the Ogunquit Playhouse, a historic venue that hosts Broadway performances and world-class live shows. Spend some time by the water, walking down Perkins Cove Road, stopping by the local shops and incredible eateries that line the street, and spotting the colorful boats docked in the harbor.
Rockport, Massachusetts
Picture-perfect scenery in Rockport, one of the finest coastal treasures Massachusetts has to offer. Between quaint shops, incredible boating opportunities, and a vibrant cultural scene, this charming town will quickly capture your heart. Prepare to see eye-catching vistas from Halibut Point State Park. On a clear day, you can spot Maine’s mesmerizing Mount Agamenticus and the stunning Isles of Shoals off the coast of New Hampshire.
Treat yourself to a lovely evening at the Rockport Music-Shalin Liu Performance Center. From classical to folk, jazz, and pop music, there is a wide range of shows to suit every taste. Front Beach is a perfect spot to stroll by the water and see the spectacular sunrise over the Atlantic, and if you are craving fresh and local seafood, stop by Roy Moore Lobster Company for some tasty lobster rolls, housemade clam chowder, and delicious stuffed clams.
Fernandina Beach, Florida
Find a slice of paradise in Fernandina Beach. Whether you are craving a “tropical escape” right in the US or would like to see well-preserved historical landmarks close to home, this is certainly one of the most captivating small towns on the Atlantic Coast. The beaches are soft and powdery, the waters are crystal-clear, and the scenery here is spectacular.
Soak in the sun as you feel the warm sand beneath your feet on the shores of Peters Point Beachfront Park. Get your steps in as you explore the gorgeous grounds of Egan's Creek Greenway Trail, a scenic hiking spot with an abundance of wildlife. Next, see the striking cannons of Fort Clinch State Park, a 19th-century fortification garrisoned during the Civil and Spanish-American Wars.
Takeaways
Between beautiful beaches, rugged cliffside landscapes, dramatic ocean waves, significant landmarks, and high-quality seafood restaurants, the Atlantic Coast offers treasures for every type of traveler. From the magnificently preserved colonial structures of Lunenburg to the riveting whale-watching opportunities of Kennebunkport and the sandy shores of Fernandina Beach, you will quickly fall in love with the East Coast. Whether you are a history buff, beach goer, outdoor explorer, or architect at heart, you will find your picture-perfect destination in these captivating small towns on the Atlantic Coast.
