On the Atlantic Coast
York County, Maine Coast – US 1 skirts a number of coastal towns, most notably Kennebunkport. All the classic elements are in place: wooden houses, rocky shores, and lobster boats (not to mention ultra-fresh lobster on local menus).
Cape Cod, Massachusetts: Not far from the stunning beaches are charming New England towns full of shops and galleries to fill your days.
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts: Up-Island, country roads wind through forests and quiet farmland. In the south of the island are Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, and Edgartown, where ferry docks, shops, and century-old homes line the main streets.
Nantucket, Massachusetts: This small island is home to fine dining, sumptuous B&Bs, fine clothing boutiques and antique shops. But the true riches of the former whaling capital are sights filled with shingled huts, rolling beaches, windswept moors, and labyrinthine wild roses.
Atlantic City, New Jersey – In addition to the casinos lining the famous boardwalk, there are dazzling shows, great concerts, and nonstop nightlife.
Cape Hatteras, North Carolina – The remote, deserted shorelines are perfect for wildlife viewing or fishing.
Hilton Head, South Carolina: Luxury condominium resorts and resorts feature country club amenities along the wide beach.
Palm Beach, Florida – This community still bears the signs of its long history as a hideaway for the wealthy, in its one-of-a-kind shops and stately mansions.
on the gulf coast
Naples, Florida: Along the soft white sand beaches, Naples is full of shops and fine arts; however, it is only a short drive from the unspoiled natural wonders of the Everglades.
Mississippi Gulf Coast: Try your luck at the casinos in Biloxi and Gulfport, or get away from the noise on an excursion to the Gulf Islands National Seashore from nearby Ocean Springs.
South Padre Island, Texas: The calm waters of the gulf lap the calm, wide beaches where seabirds gather.
on the pacific coast
Monterey Peninsula, California: Breathtakingly beautiful windswept beaches, great restaurants, boutiques and galleries, and ocean-view golf courses make this area the perfect Central Coast getaway.
Huntington Beach, California – Surfers are drawn to the waves of this quintessential Californian city, and freshwater sailors enjoy the bustling pier.
Newport Beach, California: Upscale Newport has long, sandy beaches, two long piers jutting out into the ocean, and the Edwardian-era Balboa Pavilion, whose restaurant overlooks the yacht-filled harbor.
La Jolla, California: Palm trees tower over the beaches of this elegant city, whose attractions include the caves of La Jolla and the underwater reserve at La Jolla Cove.
Rosarito, Mexico – Not far south of the border, you can ride horses on the beach during the day, then enjoy the lively nightlife in nearby Tijuana.