Planning a vacation on the East Coast can often feel overwhelming, with so many popular destinations and crowded spots. If you’re tired of the usual tourist traps and looking for something unique, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll uncover some of the best hidden gems along the East Coast, perfect for those seeking a memorable and less crowded adventure. Whether you’re looking for charming coastal towns, scenic beaches, historic sites, or family-friendly getaways, these destinations will fulfill your travel dreams without breaking the bank.
Discover the Best Hidden Coastal Towns on the East Coast
If you’re looking for charming coastal towns that aren’t overrun with tourists, consider exploring Beaufort, North Carolina, or Rockport, Massachusetts. Beaufort, a historic town with a population of about 4,300, is known for its beautiful waterfront, historic homes dating back to the 18th century, and vibrant arts scene. Stroll along the waterfront, enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, and visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum for a glimpse into the area’s rich maritime history. Beaufort’s Front Street offers picturesque views of Taylor’s Creek, where you can often spot wild horses on Carrot Island.
Contact Information:
- North Carolina Maritime Museum: 315 Front St, Beaufort, NC 28516. Phone: (252) 504-7740. Email: beaufort@ncdcr.gov. Website
Rockport, Massachusetts, is another gem that offers picturesque views, quaint shops, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a relaxing getaway. With a population of around 7,200, Rockport is known for its scenic coastline and artistic community. The town is home to numerous galleries and studios, and the iconic Motif No. 1, a red fishing shack that is one of the most painted buildings in America. Bearskin Neck, a small peninsula in Rockport, features charming shops and eateries, providing a delightful experience for visitors.
For those seeking tranquility by the sea, Chincoteague, Virginia, and Lubec, Maine, provide beautiful, less crowded beaches and a slower pace of life, ideal for unwinding. Chincoteague, famous for its wild ponies and the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, offers a population of about 3,000 and pristine beaches. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and exploring the 14,000 acres of protected land on Assateague Island.
- Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge: 8231 Beach Rd, Chincoteague Island, VA 23336. Phone: (757) 336-6122. Email: fw5rw_cnwr@fws.gov. Website
Lubec, the easternmost town in the United States with a population of just over 1,300, offers stunning coastal views, historic lighthouses, and access to the nearby Roosevelt Campobello International Park. The park spans over 2,800 acres and offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and the summer home of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
- Roosevelt Campobello International Park: 459 Route 774, Welshpool, NB E5E 1A4, Canada. Phone: (877) 851-6663. Email: info@rooseveltcampobello.org. Website
St. Michaels, Maryland, and Cape May, New Jersey, are known for their historic architecture, friendly locals, and vibrant community events, making them perfect destinations for an immersive cultural experience. St. Michaels boasts a population of about 1,000 and features charming streets lined with boutique shops, seafood restaurants, and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Cape May, with a population of around 3,500, is a Victorian seaside resort featuring beautifully preserved homes, sandy beaches, and a lively downtown area with shops, restaurants, and theaters.
- Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum: 213 N Talbot St, St Michaels, MD 21663. Phone: (410) 745-2916. Email: havefun@cbmm.org. Website
- Greater Cape May Historical Society: 653 1/2 Washington St, Cape May, NJ 08204. Phone: (609) 884-9100. Email: info@capemayhistory.org. Website
Explore the Top East Coast Beaches to Visit
If you want to experience the best of East Coast beaches, don’t miss out on Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, or Assateague Island, Maryland. Cape Hatteras, part of the Outer Banks, spans over 70 miles and is known for its unspoiled beaches, iconic lighthouse, and excellent opportunities for water sports like kiteboarding and windsurfing. The Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers miles of pristine coastline, perfect for beachcombing, fishing, and wildlife watching. The lighthouse, standing at 210 feet tall, is the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States.
- Cape Hatteras National Seashore: 1401 National Park Dr, Manteo, NC 27954. Phone: (252) 473-2111. Email: caha_info@nps.gov. Website
Assateague Island, Maryland, is famous for its wild horses and natural beauty. The Assateague Island National Seashore spans over 37 miles and provides visitors with the chance to explore sandy beaches, salt marshes, and coastal bays. Camping, kayaking, and hiking are popular activities, and the island’s natural setting offers a peaceful retreat from everyday life. The island’s feral horse population, estimated at around 300, adds to the unique charm of this destination.
- Assateague Island National Seashore: 7206 National Seashore Ln, Berlin, MD 21811. Phone: (410) 641-1441. Email: asi_information@nps.gov. Website
Look no further than Sandbridge Beach, Virginia, or Napatree Point, Rhode Island, for secluded spots where you can enjoy the sun and surf without the crowds. Sandbridge Beach, located just south of Virginia Beach, offers a quieter alternative with wide sandy beaches, dunes, and rental homes perfect for a relaxing vacation. Napatree Point, in Westerly, Rhode Island, is a beautiful, less developed area known for its scenic beach, birdwatching, and peaceful atmosphere. The peninsula stretches for about 1.5 miles and offers a sanctuary for various bird species.
- Sandbridge Beach Civic League: 2129 Sandfiddler Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456. Phone: (757) 426-2444. Email: info@sandbridgecivicleague.org. Website
- Watch Hill Conservancy: 14 Bluff Ave, Westerly, RI 02891. Phone: (401) 315-5399. Email: info@thewatchhillconservancy.org. Website
For adventure seekers, head to Jekyll Island, Georgia, or Fire Island, New York, where you can enjoy kayaking, birdwatching, and other exciting outdoor activities. Jekyll Island, part of Georgia’s Golden Isles, features 10 miles of unspoiled beaches, historic landmarks, and an abundance of wildlife. Activities include biking along 20 miles of scenic trails, exploring the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, and enjoying water sports. Fire Island, a barrier island off the coast of Long Island, New York, stretches for 32 miles and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant communities. With no cars allowed, visitors can explore the island by foot or bike, enjoying the pristine beaches, charming villages, and outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking in the Fire Island National Seashore.
- Jekyll Island Authority: 100 James Rd, Jekyll Island, GA 31527. Phone: (912) 635-3636. Email: info@jekyllisland.com. Website
- Fire Island National Seashore: 120 Laurel St, Patchogue, NY 11772. Phone: (631) 687-4750. Email: fire_island_info@nps.gov. Website
Visit the Best Historic and Cultural Sites on the East Coast
History buffs will love visiting Williamsburg, Virginia, and Charleston, South Carolina, where the rich history and well-preserved architecture transport you back in time. Williamsburg, part of the Historic Triangle of Virginia, is home to Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum where visitors can experience life in the 18th century. The restored area spans over 301 acres and features more than 40 sites and trades, offering a deep dive into early American history.
- Colonial Williamsburg: 101 Visitor Center Dr, Williamsburg, VA 23185. Phone: (888) 965-7254. Email: info@cwf.org. Website
Charleston, South Carolina, with a population of around 137,000, is known for its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and vibrant cultural scene. Take a guided tour of the
historic district, visit the Charleston Museum, and enjoy the local cuisine at one of the city’s many acclaimed restaurants. The nearby plantations, such as Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, offer additional opportunities to explore the region’s history and natural beauty. Magnolia Plantation, established in 1676, covers over 390 acres and features America’s oldest public gardens.
- Charleston Museum: 360 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403. Phone: (843) 722-2996. Email: info@charlestonmuseum.org. Website
- Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: 3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414. Phone: (843) 571-1266. Email: info@magnoliaplantation.com. Website
To get a true taste of East Coast culture, spend time in Providence, Rhode Island, or Savannah, Georgia, where local festivals, food, and art scenes reflect the area’s unique heritage. Providence, with a population of about 179,000, is home to renowned educational institutions like Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design, which contribute to the city’s vibrant arts and cultural scene. Explore the WaterFire art installation, visit the RISD Museum, and enjoy diverse dining options.
- WaterFire Providence: 4 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903. Phone: (401) 273-1155. Email: info@waterfire.org. Website
- Rhode Island School of Design Museum: 20 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903. Phone: (401) 454-6500. Email: risdmuseum@risd.edu. Website
Savannah, Georgia, with a population of around 145,000, is famous for its historic squares, moss-draped oak trees, and Southern charm. Walk along River Street, explore the historic district, and visit landmarks such as Forsyth Park and the Savannah History Museum. The city’s lively festivals, such as the Savannah Music Festival and the Savannah Food and Wine Festival, showcase its cultural richness.
- Savannah History Museum: 303 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401. Phone: (912) 651-6825. Email: info@chsgeorgia.org. Website
Don’t miss the vibrant cultural experiences in Asheville, North Carolina, and Portland, Maine, where you can explore eclectic art galleries, local music, and farm-to-table dining. Asheville, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains with a population of about 94,000, is known for its artistic community, craft breweries, and the historic Biltmore Estate. The Biltmore Estate, built in 1895, is America’s largest privately-owned home, spanning over 178,000 square feet and surrounded by 8,000 acres of beautiful grounds. Enjoy live music at local venues, visit the River Arts District, and explore the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Biltmore Estate: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803. Phone: (800) 411-3812. Email: info@biltmore.com. Website
Portland, Maine, offers a mix of historic charm and modern creativity. With a population of around 66,000, Portland features the Old Port district, the Portland Museum of Art, and fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. The city’s thriving arts scene, local markets, and beautiful coastline make it a must-visit destination.
- Portland Museum of Art: 7 Congress Square, Portland, ME 04101. Phone: (207) 775-6148. Email: info@portlandmuseum.org. Website
Plan the Best East Coast Road Trip Routes
For a scenic drive, consider the Blue Ridge Parkway through Virginia and North Carolina or the coastal route along US 1 from Maine to Florida, both offering breathtaking views and interesting stops along the way. The Blue Ridge Parkway, known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” stretches for 469 miles, providing stunning vistas, hiking trails, and access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The parkway offers numerous overlooks and picnic areas, allowing travelers to take in the panoramic views of the Appalachian Highlands.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: 199 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, NC 28803. Phone: (828) 348-3400. Email: blri_information@nps.gov. Website
The coastal route along US 1 takes you through charming towns, historic sites, and beautiful beaches from Maine to Florida. Highlights include Acadia National Park in Maine, the historic district of St. Augustine, Florida, and the scenic Overseas Highway in the Florida Keys. Acadia National Park, covering about 47,000 acres, offers a rugged coastline, granite peaks, and diverse wildlife. St. Augustine, founded in 1565, is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States and features historic buildings, museums, and the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument.
- Acadia National Park: 20 McFarland Hill Dr, Bar Harbor, ME 04609. Phone: (207) 288-3338. Email: acadia_information@nps.gov. Website
- Castillo de San Marcos National Monument: 1 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084. Phone: (904) 829-6506. Email: casa_information@nps.gov. Website
To keep costs down, plan your route with budget-friendly accommodations in mind, such as campgrounds or affordable motels, and pack your own snacks and meals to save on dining expenses. Many national and state parks along these routes offer affordable lodging options, and planning meals ahead can help manage travel costs.
Routes like the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire and the Overseas Highway in Florida provide stunning landscapes, from mountain vistas to oceanic horizons. The Kancamagus Highway, also known as “The Kanc,” is a 34.5-mile scenic drive through the White Mountains, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and opportunities to spot wildlife. The Overseas Highway, stretching 113 miles from Key Largo to Key West, takes you across a series of bridges and islands, providing spectacular ocean views and access to attractions like the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the historic Hemingway Home in Key West.
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: 102601 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037. Phone: (305) 451-1202. Email: pennekamppark@floridastateparks.org. Website
- Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: 907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040. Phone: (305) 294-1136. Email: info@hemingwayhome.com. Website
Find the Best Family-Friendly and Romantic Getaways on the East Coast
Families will enjoy visiting places like Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Ocean City, Maryland, which offer a variety of attractions, from amusement parks to interactive museums. Myrtle Beach, with a population of about 34,000, is known for its 60 miles of sandy beaches, family-friendly entertainment, and attractions like the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Broadway at the Beach. The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, standing at 187 feet, offers stunning views of the coastline.
- Ripley’s Aquarium: 1110 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577. Phone: (843) 916-0888. Email: ripleysmyrtlebeach@ripleys.com. Website
- Broadway at the Beach: 1325 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577. Phone: (843) 444-3200. Email: info@broadwayatthebeach.com. Website
Ocean City, Maryland, features a vibrant boardwalk, numerous water sports, and family-oriented activities such as mini-golf, go-karting, and the Jolly Roger Amusement Park. Ocean City has a population of around 7,000, but it swells to over 300,000 during the summer months. The nearby Assateague Island offers opportunities for camping, hiking, and observing wild horses.
- Jolly Roger Amusement Park: 2901 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone: (410) 289-3477. Email: info@jollyrogerpark.com. Website
- Assateague Island National Seashore: 7206 National Seashore Ln, Berlin, MD 21811. Phone: (410) 641-1441. Email: asi_information@nps.gov. Website
For a romantic escape, consider Bar Harbor, Maine, or Newport, Rhode Island, where you can enjoy cozy bed-and-breakfasts, scenic walks, and intimate dining experiences. Bar Harbor, located near Acadia National Park, offers
stunning coastal views, charming inns, and activities like whale watching, hiking, and exploring the quaint downtown area. The town has a population of about 5,200 and provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm.
- Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co.: 1 West St, Bar Harbor, ME 04609. Phone: (207) 288-2386. Email: info@barharborwhales.com. Website
- Acadia National Park: 20 McFarland Hill Dr, Bar Harbor, ME 04609. Phone: (207) 288-3338. Email: acadia_information@nps.gov. Website
Newport, Rhode Island, is famous for its historic mansions, scenic Cliff Walk, and luxurious accommodations. Newport has a population of around 25,000 and features the opulent Gilded Age mansions that line Bellevue Avenue. Enjoy a sunset sail on Narragansett Bay, dine at waterfront restaurants, and explore the historic Newport Mansions, such as The Breakers and Marble House.
- The Breakers: 44 Ochre Point Ave, Newport, RI 02840. Phone: (401) 847-1000. Email: info@newportmansions.org. Website
- Marble House: 596 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI 02840. Phone: (401) 847-1000. Email: info@newportmansions.org. Website
To make the most of a weekend trip, choose destinations with a mix of activities that cater to everyone’s interests, such as hiking, sightseeing, and dining, ensuring a fun and memorable experience for all. For example, Asheville, North Carolina, offers a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Families and couples alike can enjoy hiking in the nearby mountains, exploring local art galleries, and dining at farm-to-table restaurants.
Similarly, St. Augustine, Florida, provides a rich blend of history, beach activities, and family-friendly attractions. Visit the historic Castillo de San Marcos, relax on St. Augustine Beach, and explore the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park for a well-rounded and enjoyable trip.
- St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park: 999 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080. Phone: (904) 824-3337. Email: info@alligatorfarm.com. Website
- Castillo de San Marcos National Monument: 1 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084. Phone: (904) 829-6506. Email: casa_information@nps.gov. Website
FAQs
What are some lesser-known coastal towns on the East Coast?
Beaufort, North Carolina, and Rockport, Massachusetts, are excellent choices for those looking to explore charming coastal towns away from the crowds. Beaufort offers a historic waterfront and a vibrant arts scene, while Rockport is known for its picturesque views and artistic community.
Which East Coast beaches are best for avoiding crowds?
Sandbridge Beach, Virginia, and Napatree Point, Rhode Island, are ideal for those seeking secluded and less crowded beaches. Both locations offer beautiful, quiet beaches perfect for relaxation.
What historic sites should I visit on the East Coast?
Williamsburg, Virginia, and Charleston, South Carolina, are rich in history and offer well-preserved architecture and cultural experiences. Colonial Williamsburg provides a living history museum experience, while Charleston features historic homes and plantations.
What are the best road trip routes on the East Coast?
The Blue Ridge Parkway and the coastal route along US 1 are two of the most scenic road trip routes on the East Coast. The Blue Ridge Parkway offers stunning mountain vistas, while US 1 takes you through charming towns and beautiful beaches from Maine to Florida.
What are some family-friendly destinations on the East Coast?
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Ocean City, Maryland, are great family-friendly destinations with a variety of attractions, including amusement parks, interactive museums, and vibrant boardwalks.
Where can I find romantic getaways on the East Coast?
Bar Harbor, Maine, and Newport, Rhode Island, are perfect for romantic getaways. Both locations offer cozy accommodations, scenic walks, and intimate dining experiences.
Conclusion
Exploring the East Coast offers a diverse array of travel experiences, from hidden coastal towns and scenic beaches to historic sites and family-friendly getaways. By venturing off the beaten path, you can discover unique destinations that provide memorable and enriching experiences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the East Coast’s hidden gems await your discovery. Plan your next trip with these recommendations in mind and enjoy the charm and beauty of these less-traveled destinations.
