We all need a break from reality to just get away and enjoy a nice beach. There is something almost therapeutic about planting your feet in the sand, soaking up some rays and going for a refreshing dip in the ocean. But well known, common tourist destination beaches can get pretty crowded, making it hard to truly stretch out and enjoy a day at the beach. This is where lesser known beaches come in handy, offering a quieter, more secluded experience for a beach getaway. If you’re looking for the beach less traveled for your next escape, check out these 8 best small beach towns and cities in America.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
A gorgeous strip of sandy shores, Cannon Beach is the perfect place to visit if you are looking for space to relax and stake your claim and comfort for a full day at the beach.
Chatham, Massachusetts
While everyone else is living large in Cape Cod, visitors looking for a more relaxed respite can find it in Chatham. This beautiful gem is sophisticated without the grandiose.
Cape May, New Jersey
After an explosion of reality television fame, Jersey Shore is very well known and has frequent crowds loaded onto its shores. But luckily, there are still towns like Cape May, where travelers can enjoy a more secluded nostalgic experience of beach life in this area.
Carmel by the Sea, California
Sprinkled with adorable cottages and village-like charm, Carmel by the Sea is a must-see for anyone looking for a quiet, relaxing beach day. There are also water sports available like surfing and scuba diving.
Corolla, North Carolina
A small beach village on the Outer Banks in North Carolina, has all the small town appeal with great local attractions to boot. Visitors can enjoy a 19-century lighthouse and a restored 1920’s hunting retreat.
Block Island, Rhode Island
One of the most remote, but visitable islands on the East Coast, Block island is truly a best-kept secret amongst small beaches. This island off the coast of Rhode Island can only be reached by water or air, and is a secluded beach lover’s dream. There is 17 miles of uninterrupted beachy seashores, and is home to quaint and cute boutiques and shops.
Currituck Beach, North Carolina
What other beach town can beat sandy shores with free roaming wild horses? Currituck Beach is located on the Outer Banks, and the best areas – where the horses are most easily found – are typically reached by ATV or four-wheel drive vehicles.
Clearwater Beach, Florida
There are so many well-known and oversaturated beaches in Florida that its surprising there are still lesser known beaches on its sandy coasts, like Clearwater Beach. This beach’s beauty lies in its white sand, gorgeous views from the Gulf, and spacious shore to offer plenty of room to relax. There are many restaurants and live music in bars for entertainment. Clearwater Beach even boasts what they call sunset festivals, nightly gatherings at the pier where vendors and street performers sell merchandise and entertain crowds.
