Ever dreamed of escaping to a quaint coastal town where the air smells like salt and adventure? New England’s got a whole string of them, each more charming than the last.
From Maine’s rocky shores to Connecticut’s sandy beaches, these seaside gems are serving up history, natural beauty, and enough New England charm to fill a lobster boat.
Let’s dive into 25 must-visit coastal towns that’ll have anyone dreaming of lighthouse views and seafood feasts.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Imagine waking up to the rugged beauty of Acadia National Park right on the doorstep.
Bar Harbor’s the kind of place where a morning hike and an afternoon lobster roll are just par for the course.
Newport, Rhode Island
Fancy rubbing elbows with the ghosts of the Gilded Age? Newport’s mansions are so swanky, they make Downton Abbey look like a starter home.
The Cliff Walk’s the cherry on top, serving up ocean views that’ll make anyone’s jaw drop.
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Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic’s got that perfect blend of maritime history and modern-day fun. Where else can someone geek out over 19th-century ships in the morning and then stuff their face with movie-famous pizza in the afternoon?
Rockport, Massachusetts
This artist’s haven on Cape Ann is known for its picturesque Motif No. 1, often called “the most painted building in America.” Wandering through galleries and enjoying fresh seafood with a view is the perfect way to spend an afternoon
Kennebunkport, Maine
Kennebunkport’s that perfectly preppy friend who also knows how to let loose. One minute it’s all about admiring grand captain’s homes, the next it’s slurping oysters at a dockside bar.
Talk about range!
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Watch Hill, Rhode Island
Watch Hill’s the quiet achiever of Rhode Island’s coastal towns. It’s got gorgeous beaches, a carousel older than sliced bread, and a laid-back vibe that’ll make anyone want to cancel their return ticket.
Provincetown, Massachusetts
Provincetown is where free spirits come to play. It’s a colorful cocktail of art galleries, sandy dunes, and LGBTQ+-friendly vibes, shaken (not stirred) with a dash of whimsy.
Camden, Maine
Often called the “Jewel of the Maine Coast,” Camden offers a perfect blend of mountain and sea. Sailing on a windjammer or hiking in Camden Hills State Park provides unforgettable views of this picture-perfect town.
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Block Island, Rhode Island
This island paradise, accessible by ferry, boasts 17 miles of pristine beaches and dramatic bluffs. Renting a bike to explore the island’s laid-back charm and natural beauty is a must-do for visitors.
Ogunquit, Maine
The name means ‘beautiful place by the sea,’ and boy, does it deliver. Between the gorgeous beach and the scenic Marginal Way path, it’s like Mother Nature’s showing off.
Marblehead, Massachusetts
History buffs, get ready to geek out! Marblehead’s got more pre-Revolutionary War buildings than a colonial reenactment society. Plus, a harbor that’s prettier than a postcard.
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Stonington, Connecticut
Stonington’s Connecticut’s quiet achiever, serving up fishing village vibes with a side of 18th-century charm. It’s the kind of place where watching fishermen haul in the day’s catch counts as entertainment.
Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Known for its colorful gingerbread cottages and lively atmosphere, Oak Bluffs is a must-visit on Martha’s Vineyard. The historic Flying Horses carousel adds a touch of nostalgia to this vibrant town.
Boothbay Harbor, Maine
Boothbay Harbor is Maine’s happy place, where boat trips and lobster rolls are always on the menu. And if flowers are your thing, the nearby Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are like nature on steroids.
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Westerly, Rhode Island
Westerly’s got a beach that’s longer than some small countries, and a downtown that’s cuter than a puppy in a bowtie. It’s the perfect spot for those who like their beach towns with a side of small-town charm.
Rockland, Maine
They call Rockland the ‘Lobster Capital of the World,’ which is basically like being crowned the king of deliciousness. Between lobster fests and world-class art at the Farnsworth, it’s a feast for all the senses.
Newburyport, Massachusetts
Newburyport’s like that cool history teacher who also knows all the best restaurants. With its brick downtown and waterfront boardwalk, it’s serving up yesteryear vibes with modern-day flavor.
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Essex, Connecticut
Essex is so cute it hurts – in a good way. From its quaint marina to its historic steam train, it’s like someone bottled up the essence of New England and turned it into a town.
Chatham, Massachusetts
Perched on the ‘elbow’ of Cape Cod, Chatham’s got more charm than should be legally allowed. Between the lighthouse, the beaches, and the buzzing Main Street, it’s Cape Cod perfection.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Portsmouth is like a greatest hits album of New England coastal towns. It’s got history, it’s got culture, and boy oh boy, does it have good eats.
Strawbery Banke Museum? More like Strawbery Cake, because it’s a treat!
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Vineyard Haven, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Vineyard Haven is like Oak Bluffs’ more relaxed cousin. It’s got all the Martha’s Vineyard charm, just with the chill factor turned up to 11.
Perfect for those who like their island getaways on the quieter side.
Milford, Connecticut
Milford’s got more coastline than you can imagine and a downtown that’s prettier than a Norman Rockwell painting. It’s the perfect escape from big city hustle, with a side of small-town hustle.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket is basically a time machine disguised as an island. With its cobblestone streets and historic whaling vibes, it’s like stepping back in time – but with better restaurants and cocktail bars.
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York, Maine
York’s got a lighthouse so photogenic it should have its own Instagram account. Throw in some killer beaches and more lobster shacks than you can count, and you’ve got yourself a perfect Maine getaway.
Guilford, Connectivity
Guilford’s town green is bigger than some folks’ entire hometowns, and it’s got a beach nearby that goes on for days. It’s like someone took all the best bits of New England and smooshed them into one adorable town.
Tour New England’s Coastal Towns
So there it is, folks – a tour of New England’s coastal hotspots! Whether it’s a lobster roll, a history lesson, or just a good old-fashioned beach day, these towns have got it all.
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