6 Best East Coast Beach Towns for an Epic Summer Trip

Good times, great waves

Summer vacation options are endless: mountains, cities, national parks. But let’s be real, when the sunshine hits, there’s only one place you really want to be: the beach! Whether you’re on the sand with a good book or catching air on a jet ski, summer is made for waterfront fun. And these East Coast beach towns deliver, you guys!

Ready for sun, surf, and small-town charm? Pick one of these coastal spots for your next beach-based getaway.

• Bar Harbor, ME

  Where casual coastlines meet outdoor adventures!

  Bar Harbor is definitely the quintessential New England town. Think fresh-caught lobster, sailboats in the harbor, and charming historic streets. Thanks to its island location, there are quite a few beaches nearby, so you can take your time exploring them all.

  The city sits at the entrance of Acadia National Park, known for its majestic cliffs and unspoiled beauty. Bar Harbor is the perfect place for spending the morning hiking and the afternoon relaxing by the water.

• Cape Cod, MA

  15 East Coast beach towns, 1 unforgettable vacation!

  Cape Cod truly is a beach lover’s dream. From beachfront bike rides to lazy afternoons by the water, there’s a little something for everyone. Our favorite town is Chatham, with its white sand beaches and walkable downtown. But you guys truly can’t go wrong anywhere on Cape Cod!

  And yes, you’ll get to fill up on all the New England classics: oysters, lobstah rolls, and fresh seafood are on just about every menu.

• Cocoa Beach, FL

  Grab a board and hit the waves!

  Sunny and super laid-back, Cocoa Beach is the go-to spot for surfers, swimmers, and anyone who loves splashing in the water. Set your alarm early, though—sunrise over the water is absolutely worth it.

  Need beach gear? Make a stop at the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop to pick up some casual fits with that surfer vibe. You can also rent boards (surf, paddle, and boogie) and even sign up for lessons. You’ll be hanging ten with the locals in no time!

• Kiawah Island, SC

  Looking for a slower, more relaxing getaway?

  With a focus on nature over nightlife, Kiawah Island is the place to go when you need to unplug. Its wide, uncrowded beaches are ideal for long walks and top-tier shell hunting, especially at low tide. And if you guys stick around for sunset, you might spot friendly dolphins just offshore!

  Kiawah is just a short drive from the ever-popular Charleston. You can pop into the city for shopping or sightseeing, then head back to your blissfully quiet retreat.

• Martha’s Vineyard, MA

  A vacation with that timeless coastal vibe!

  The island is made up of 6 very distinct towns, each with its own personality. And Martha’s Vineyard is all about balance, blending laid-back beach days with some seriously bougie shops and restaurants.

  Oak Bluffs has that old-time Boardwalk feel, with arcades, ice cream shops, and a historic carousel. On the flip side, Edgartown is known for its historic architecture, colorful hydrangeas, and pristine beaches. And don’t miss Aquinnah, home to gorgeous waterfront cliffs and a stunning red sunset.

• Outer Banks, NC

  Wild and wonderful, that’s the OBX!

  The Outer Banks, a string of barrier islands, is packed with adventures! For you sky-high thrill-seekers, there’s hang gliding over Jockey’s Ridge or parasailing over the ocean. Go at sunset for the most breathtaking views.

  If you’d rather keep your feet on the ground (or in the water), you’ve got miles of windswept beaches to play on. Try your hand at kiteboarding, surfing, jet skiing, or paddleboarding. Then hit one of the beach bars for fresh seafood and an ice-cold drink, OBX-style.

From peaceful escapes to lively waterfronts, these standout East Coast beach towns offer everything you could possibly want in a seriously awesome vacation! 

And to make sure your travels are just as relaxing as your trip, ship your stuff to your final destination with LugLess. No hauling bags through the airport or trying to cram your beach gear into an overstuffed carry-on. So you can head to your next getaway with just a smile and a boarding pass (and maybe an airport Starbucks)!