Top East Coast Beach Destinations to Visit This Year

  • East Coast Beaches

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    From north to south, the U.S. East Coast offers a remarkable range of coastal scenery — from palm-fringed, white-sand shores in the South to dramatic, cliff-lined beaches in the North. Below are some of the best beach towns to visit this summer, each with its own character and attractions.
  • Tybee Island

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    Tybee Island, Georgia — just a half hour from historic Savannah — is a relaxed seaside getaway known for wide, white-sand beaches and frequent dolphin sightings. Visitors enjoy swimming, fishing and exploring the island’s Civil War-era forts for a touch of local history.
  • Amelia Island

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    Amelia Island, near Florida’s southern Sea Island region in Nassau County, is a longtime favorite for beach vacations. The island features 13 miles of shoreline, excellent boating and deep-sea fishing, golf courses and a charming historic district filled with shops and cafés.
  • Jamestown

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    Jamestown, Rhode Island, captures the quintessential New England beach-town vibe on the shores of Narragansett Bay. Stroll the main street to find cozy boutiques and restaurants, watch sailboats glide by, or take a refreshing swim in the bay’s calm waters.
  • Old Saybrook

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    Old Saybrook, Connecticut, sits where the Connecticut River meets Long Island Sound, making it a peaceful summer retreat. The town offers sandy beaches, calm surf ideal for water sports, and a selection of independent shops and eateries that lend a relaxed, small-town charm.
  • Montauk

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    Montauk, New York, is prized for its unhurried atmosphere and unspoiled natural areas, from preserved beaches to coastal woodlands and rolling grasslands. It’s a great destination for beachcombing, hiking and sampling locally owned restaurants and shops in the downtown area.
  • Isle of Palms

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    Isle of Palms, South Carolina — a seven-mile barrier island across the Intracoastal Waterway — blends Lowcountry charm with tropical appeal. Visitors enjoy palm-lined beaches, fresh seafood, Southern hospitality and opportunities for relaxation away from heavier crowds.