If you listen to all of this surfer dudes and California girls, they’ll try to tell you that the West Coast is the best coast… Sure enough, the West Coast of the United States is an amazing place to live in and to visit. However, we’re not ready to declare the West Coast the best coast just quite yet! In fact, there’s a strong case to be made for the East Coast of the United States to be the better of the two…
What makes us feel this way? Well, let’s just say that we’ve had the opportunity to spend some time at some lovely beach destinations along the eastern seaboard. And, we can tell you from personal experience that some of these places rival and even exceed anything you’d find in Southern California or elsewhere.
Not sure you believe us? Want to find out for yourself why the East Coast might be the best coast? Well, read on! Below we’re going to share our picks for the 20 places you should go if you’re looking to have a wonderful East Coast beach vacation. Once you see what these places look like – and maybe even visit a few yourself – we think you’ll be convinced.
1. Cape May, New Jersey
Don’t believe the hype about New Jersey, when you see Cape May for yourself, you’ll fall in love.
2. Lubec, Maine
Wonderful and remote, this is a place where you can experience the resplendent beauty of Maine as well as its delicious lobsters!
3. Bethany Beach, Delaware
This gorgeous spot is really cool, and you might not ever think of it given how little most people even think of the state of Delaware.
4. Beaufort, North Carolina
When you get tired of the beach here, you’ll enjoy the ample waterfront shopping and dining options.
5. Kennebunkport, Maine
There’s a reason that the Bush family chose this spot as their preferred vacation destination, you know…
6. Boca Grande, Florida
This is a place in Florida you’ll want to hit up if you’re looking for some truly excellent fishing.
7. Westerly, Rhode Island
Home to the fun-time beaches of Misquamicutt and the old-money luxuriousness of Watch Hill, there’s much and more that this Rhode Island town has to offer.
8. Duxbury, Massachusetts
Come for the beach and stay for the delicious oysters for which this small town is known.
9. Rockport, Massachusetts
This charming coastal Massachusetts town has all you’d want, including delicious seafood and plenty of outdoor activities.
10. Newport, Rhode Island
Spend your days enjoying the beautiful beaches here, and be sure to check out the shopping and the famous mansions.
11. Chestertown, Maryland
Forget about Ocean Beach, and instead get into the swing of things in this gorgeous coastal small town.
12. Folly Beach, South Carolina
Just a short trip away from the fun and vivacious Charleston, you’ll find much and more to enjoy here.
13. York Beach, Maine
When you’re looking for a beach vacation that’s done in the Maine style, look no further than this New England treasure.
14. Rye, New Hampshire
New Hampshire has precious little coastline, and this is by far the best place to experience it.
15. Jekyll Island, Georgia
Somewhere between Jacksonville, Florida, and Savannah, you’ll find this wonderful place which locals wish would stay a secret.
16. Apalachicola, Florida
When you think oysters, you’re thinking of New England… But, this wonderful beach community has something to say about that!
17. Matlacha, Florida
Vibrant and artistic, this is the perfect Florida destination for someone who wants an uncommon Florida vacation.
18. Duck, North Carolina
Here you can enjoy some truly beautiful coastal living, as well as some incredibly delicious donuts.
19. Dunedin, Florida
Situated along the Gulf Coast of Florida, here’s another place you’ll want to hit up if you’re interested in fishing your vacation away.
20. St. Mary’s, Georgia
You may think you know what Georgia is like, but you really don’t until you’ve experienced this charming coastal town.
