While New York City and Miami might steal the spotlight for East Coast tourism, the Atlantic seaboard is dotted with charming towns and lesser-known cities that make perfect weekend escapes. From quiet coastal communities to mountain hideaways, these destinations offer a chance to break free from the daily grind without venturing too far from home.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful beach retreat or a small-town adventure, here are 20 East Coast getaways that prove you don’t need to cross the country for a memorable weekend away.
Bar Harbor, Maine
At the northern edge of Maine’s Mount Desert Island sits Bar Harbor, a charming coastal town that serves as the gateway to Acadia National Park. Like other New England seaside spots, Bar Harbor has its lobster shacks, ice cream parlors, and boutique shops. But unlike its neighbors, this town feels like it belongs in a maritime storybook. Just watch the fishing boats bob in the harbor at sunrise, or follow the Shore Path past the old sea captain mansions, and you’ll see what I mean. Because of Bar Harbor’s unique position between mountains and sea, it became a summer escape for America’s wealthy families in the 1800s, and you’ll find hints of this Gilded Age history in the Victorian architecture and manicured gardens that dot the streets.
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Martha’s Vineyard is where I send friends looking for that perfect mix of beach town charm and New England character. Just seven miles off the Massachusetts coast, this island brings together colorful gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs, quiet beaches along the south shore, and old whaling captains’ homes in Edgartown. Whether you’re cycling past farmlands, hopping between seafood shacks, or watching the sunset at Menemsha Beach, the Vineyard offers a laid-back escape that feels worlds away from the mainland.
Newport, Rhode Island
Ever wandered through a seaside mansion bigger than your entire neighborhood? That’s just a typical morning in Newport, Rhode Island, where America’s wealthiest families built their summer “cottages” during the Gilded Age. This charming coastal town lets you step back in time as you stroll along the famous Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile trail that winds between the crashing Atlantic waves and those massive Newport Mansions. Beyond the architectural eye candy, you can spend your days sailing in the same waters that hosted the America’s Cup for decades, sampling fresh lobster rolls at the bustling wharfs, or cycling along Ocean Drive, where the sea views never seem to end. For the full Newport experience, book a room at one of the historic inns dotting Bellevue Avenue, where the spirit of the Vanderbilts and Astors still lingers.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
I first visited Cape Cod on a summer road trip in 2015, drawn to this arm-shaped peninsula that curves into the Atlantic Ocean off Massachusetts. This beloved New England escape sits just an hour from Boston, with 40 miles of national seashore stretching from Chatham to Provincetown. Charming beach towns and weathered lighthouses dot the coastline, while boutique B&Bs and cozy seafood shacks give the Cape its quintessential coastal character. The calm bay-side beaches offer perfect spots for families, while the wilder Atlantic-facing shores attract surfers and beachcombers searching for treasures in the sand. Bike trails wind through cranberry bogs and salt marshes, connecting the string of towns that have drawn generations of summer visitors to this timeless slice of coastal New England.
Mystic, Connecticut
With its quaint seaside charm, Mystic has drawn visitors to Connecticut’s shores since the 1600s. Sitting along the Mystic River where it meets Long Island Sound, this historic maritime town blends New England’s seafaring past with modern attractions. The Mystic Seaport Museum brings the area’s whaling history to life with tall ships and restored vessels, while the downtown district offers local shops and restaurants tucked into centuries-old buildings. At the famous Mystic Pizza (yes, that Mystic Pizza), visitors can grab a slice where Julia Roberts’ 1988 coming-of-age film was set. The town’s wooden drawbridge, raised every hour to let boats pass, provides a perfect spot to watch sailboats glide by as seagulls circle overhead. Just down the road, the Mystic Aquarium’s beluga whales and penguin colony make for an entertaining afternoon, especially for families with kids.
The Hamptons, New York
Experience the laid-back luxury of The Hamptons, where New York City’s elite escape for sun-soaked weekends by the sea. This string of coastal villages on Long Island’s South Fork offers pristine beaches, charming town centers, and plenty of opportunities for people-watching. Head to Cooper’s Beach in Southampton to lounge on white sand, or browse the boutiques and art galleries along Main Street in East Hampton. For a taste of local flavor, stop by the Wolffer Estate Vineyard for wine tasting, or grab fresh seafood at Gosman’s Dock in Montauk. Whether you’re window shopping at high-end stores or cycling past cedar-shingled mansions, The Hamptons delivers a perfect mix of relaxation and sophistication.
Ocean City, Maryland
Stroll along the famous Ocean City Boardwalk, a 3-mile stretch packed with old-school arcade games, saltwater taffy shops, and local eateries serving up fresh Maryland blue crabs. There’s plenty to keep you busy, from riding the vintage carousel at Trimper’s Rides to catching waves at the beach. When the sun sets, head to Seacrets, a sprawling Caribbean-style restaurant and bar where you can enjoy live music while sitting in chairs partially submerged in the bay. For a quieter experience, book a fishing charter to reel in some flounder, or spend a peaceful morning watching dolphins play in the surf from your oceanfront balcony.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Many travelers head to Virginia Beach for its famous 3-mile boardwalk along the Atlantic Ocean, but this coastal city offers much more than just beach activities. The destination combines laid-back oceanfront living with outdoor adventures, from kayaking through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to cycling along the Cape Henry Trail. The Virginia Aquarium draws families year-round with its 800,000-gallon displays and hands-on exhibits, while the nearby First Landing State Park provides a peaceful escape with its cypress swamps and maritime forest. Whether you’re interested in deep-sea fishing trips, checking out local craft breweries, or simply watching dolphins play in the surf, Virginia Beach delivers an easy-going coastal experience in every season.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
Ever watched wild horses gallop freely along pristine beaches? You’ll find this magical sight in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, where herds of Colonial Spanish Mustangs still roam the shoreline just as they did 500 years ago. This string of barrier islands stretches 200 miles along the Atlantic coast, offering everything from lighthouse climbs to kiteboarding in some of America’s most reliable winds. The Wright Brothers chose these windswept dunes for their first flight, and today you can visit the exact spot in Kill Devil Hills where aviation history was made. The islands are dotted with cozy beach rentals and small fishing villages, where you can feast on just-caught seafood and watch the sun sink into the sound from a waterfront deck.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston melds Southern charm with coastal living in a way few other cities can match. Like many historic places in the South, you’ll find cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and horse-drawn carriages clip-clopping through the French Quarter. But what sets Charleston apart is how seamlessly it blends old and new. Locals still gather at century-old oyster houses, while creative chefs reinvent Lowcountry classics in converted warehouses along King Street. Because of its position between the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, the city has always been shaped by maritime culture – from its busy port to the fresh seafood that defines its cooking. You’ll spot fishing boats heading out at dawn, and the salty breeze carries the scent of pluff mud from the marshes, a smell locals swear by as the true perfume of the Lowcountry.
Savannah, Georgia
Ever wandered down streets lined with Spanish moss draping from centuries-old oak trees? That’s daily life in Savannah, where historic mansions and cobblestone paths tell stories from the 1700s. This charming Georgia city mixes Southern hospitality with coastal appeal, making it perfect for history buffs and food lovers alike. Stroll through Forsyth Park, hop between the city’s famous squares, or take a ghost tour through America’s most haunted city. The local food scene serves up fresh seafood and traditional Southern cooking, while River Street’s converted cotton warehouses now house cool shops and restaurants with views of passing cargo ships.
St. Augustine, Florida
I always tell history buffs to put St. Augustine at the top of their travel list. As America’s oldest city, founded in 1565, this coastal Florida gem combines Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos fortress. You can spend your days exploring the Historic District’s boutiques and cafes, relaxing on the white sand beaches, or taking a ghost tour through the city’s many haunted sites.
The Berkshires, Massachusetts
Take a cultural escape to the rolling hills of the Berkshires, where art and nature blend seamlessly together. Music lovers flock to Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, for picnic concerts under the stars. The area’s art museums, like MASS MoCA and the Norman Rockwell Museum, offer world-class collections in a laid-back setting. For outdoor enthusiasts, the region serves up hiking trails through dense forests and peaceful lakes perfect for kayaking. When winter arrives, switch gears to skiing at family-friendly spots like Butternut Basin or Jiminy Peak.
Finger Lakes, New York
The Finger Lakes region in Upstate New York is where wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts find their happy place. Stretching across eleven glacial lakes, this area is home to more than 100 wineries, countless hiking trails, and charming small towns that dot the shoreline. You can spend your days sampling Rieslings at lakeside vineyards, kayaking through gorges at Watkins Glen State Park, or hopping between local farms and creameries on the region’s famous cheese trail.
The Poconos, Pennsylvania
Looking for a mountain escape where you can hit the slopes in winter and paddle pristine lakes in summer? Just a two-hour drive from New York City, the Poconos region spreads across 2,400 square miles of eastern Pennsylvania, offering four seasons of outdoor fun. Home to countless waterfalls, 150 lakes, and 170 miles of winding rivers, this natural playground draws both adventure seekers and couples looking for a romantic retreat. You can zip-line through forest canopies, explore historic small towns like Jim Thorpe, or unwind in one of the area’s famous heart-shaped tubs at couples-only resorts that have been honeymoon destinations since the 1960s.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Discover the raw beauty of Maine’s coastline at Acadia National Park, where granite cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean. Start your day with a sunrise hike up Cadillac Mountain – the first place in the U.S. to see the morning light from October through March. Take your pick from 158 miles of hiking trails, including the famous Ocean Path that runs along the rocky shore. Stop at Thunder Hole, where waves crash into a natural rock inlet creating a booming sound effect, or rent a bike to explore the 45 miles of historic carriage roads. For a quieter experience, head to Jordan Pond, where you can enjoy afternoon tea and popovers at the Jordan Pond House while taking in views of the Bubble Mountains.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
I first discovered Rehoboth Beach on a summer road trip in 2019, searching for a laid-back coastal escape from DC’s bustle. This charming Delaware beach town sits where the Atlantic meets the mouth of Delaware Bay, just a few hours from major East Coast cities. The mile-long boardwalk serves as the heart of the community, lined with local restaurants, ice cream shops, and arcade games that have entertained visitors for generations. Beyond the classic beach scene, Rehoboth has evolved into a food lover’s paradise, with fresh seafood spots and the famous Dogfish Head Brewery adding modern flair to the town’s old-school beach charm. Clear waters and clean sand draw families by day, while evening brings acoustic musicians and peaceful sunset strolls along the shore.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Looking for that perfect beach escape without the passport hassle? Myrtle Beach delivers with 60 miles of sandy coastline locals fondly call the “Grand Strand.” This family-favorite destination along South Carolina’s shore offers more than just sandcastles and surf – you’ll find yourself teeing off at world-class golf courses, strolling down the lively boardwalk, and watching the sunset from the SkyWheel, one of America’s tallest Ferris wheels. The area serves up fresh seafood at casual beachfront spots, while the Broadway at the Beach entertainment complex keeps the fun going after dark with shops, restaurants, and live shows. Beach lovers can spend their days swimming, surfing, or simply lounging on the warm sand, while nature enthusiasts explore nearby Huntington Beach State Park, where alligators sun themselves along quiet marsh trails.
Asheville, North Carolina
I first discovered Asheville on a fall road trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains in 2018. Nestled in western North Carolina’s rolling hills, this mountain town sits in the heart of the Appalachian region. Local breweries and farm-to-table restaurants line the historic downtown streets, while the grand Biltmore Estate stands as a testament to America’s Gilded Age on the city’s outskirts. The town’s artistic spirit flows through the River Arts District, where old warehouses have become home to over 200 working artists. From spring wildflower hikes in the nearby Pisgah National Forest to winter evenings cozied up in corner cafes, Asheville offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and small-city charm.
Block Island, Rhode Island
Many travelers head to Block Island for its laid-back beach vibes and car-free lifestyle, but this Rhode Island gem offers much more than just sandy shores. The 7-square-mile island, reached by ferry from Point Judith, features two historic lighthouses and more than 30 miles of walking trails through protected nature areas. In summer, visitors can spend their days cycling along quiet roads, exploring the island’s many small shops and cafes, or watching the sunset from Mohegan Bluffs. While the warmer months draw the biggest crowds, spring and fall visits offer peaceful moments to spot migrating birds and enjoy the uncrowded beaches.
