The US is home to over 5050 beaches and a diverse array of charming beach towns, each offering its unique blend of culture and coastal lifestyle. Based on our experience, here are ten of the best beach towns across the country with the unique food scenes they offer:
1. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its fairy-tale cottages, narrow lanes, and whimsical architecture. Its charm stems from a strong artistic legacy, with 1920s-era homes by Hugh Comstock, including the “Hansel” and “Gretel” cottages and the pink “Storybook Cottage.” The town is famously walkable, has no fast-food chains, and quirky rules like a high-heeled permit law. Visitors from larger cities often enjoy the peaceful streets and proximity to Big Sur.
Food
Carmel’s food scene is entirely local, with more than 60 independently owned restaurants. Restaurants that serve Mediterranean, French, Italian, and Californian fare prepared with local, fresh ingredients include Dametra Cafe, La Bicyclette, Mission Bistro, Casanova, Anton & Michel, and Village Corner. Most spots are pet-friendly and designed for relaxed, quality dining.
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2. Santa Barbara, California
Known as the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara blends Mediterranean style with California ease. The city is surrounded by the Pacific and the Santa Ynez Mountains, and charms itself with its white stucco houses, red tiled roofs, and windy views of the coast.
While the neighboring Funk Zone has a contemporary edge with tasting rooms, street art, and repurposed warehouses, State Street serves as the downtown’s main thoroughfare with its stores, cafes, and galleries. Landmarks like the Old Mission and Paseo Nuevo’s tiled staircases give the city its historic elegance.
Food
Santa Barbara’s food culture leans fresh and coastal. Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach serves seafood with ocean views, while The Lark and Bouchon highlight Central Coast produce and wine in refined settings. The Public Market offers casual bites, from duck bao to vegan tacos, and showcases local wines and small-batch goods. Dining is best enjoyed early, as many restaurants close by nine.
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3. Provincetown, Massachusetts
Provincetown, or “P-Town,” sits at Cape Cod’s tip, and it is known for its strong arts community and welcoming spirit. The town hosts galleries and theaters, reflecting a creative past, with Drag shows and festivals bringing energy to its streets.
At the same time, nature lovers find peace in places like Herring Cove Beach and the Dune Shacks Trail, where sunsets stretch over untouched dunes. Historically, it marks the Pilgrims’ first landing and the signing of the Mayflower Compact.
Food
Sal’s Place is a favorite for oceanfront Italian fare in a cozy setting. The Crown & Anchor pairs classic seafood and cocktails with lively drag shows, while Governor Bradford is known for casual eats and late-night drag karaoke. Morning options abound with local cafés, bakeries, and strong coffee. Fudge shops and seafood shacks round out a playful, satisfying food culture.
4. Cannon Beach, Oregon
Haystack Rock, a 235-foot sea stack that rises from the shoreline and is encircled by tide pools full of anemones and starfish, is what defines Cannon Beach. Tufted puffins nest here in spring and summer, making it a rare wildlife spot. The town blends natural beauty with an arts community thriving on galleries, boutiques, and events like the sandcastle competition, giving it character. Downtown is walkable and chain-free, while nearby Ecola State Park offers hiking with panoramic views of the rugged coast.
Food
Cannon Beach features fresh seafood and casual dining. Ecola Seafoods is famous for crab melts and clam chowder. Driftwood serves classic American dishes by a fire pit patio. The Wayfarer offers Northwest cuisine with Haystack Rock views. Mo’s is known for clam chowder in sourdough bowls. Public Coast Brewing and Lazy Susan Café round out the scene, with smoked meats at Cannon Beach Smokehouse. Coffee fans enjoy Sleepy Monk and Sea Level Bakery.
5. Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort is often called one of the South’s most charming small towns, known for its rich history and Lowcountry atmosphere. The Historic District stands out with grand antebellum homes and oak-lined streets draped in Spanish moss. The Old Point area, where secret parks and historic houses create a storybook setting, is perfect for walking or biking. Moreover, the waterfront adds to the town’s appeal.
Food
Beaufort’s seaside environment and Southern heritage are reflected in its cuisine. Fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and tomato pie are local favorites. Urban Fix Market is praised for breakfast burritos and vegetarian biscuits and gravy. Bay Street offers waterfront dining with richly spiced dishes. Hearth Wood-Fired Pizza provides a lively spot for pizza and craft beer. A lot of cafés emphasize Southern hospitality and locally sourced, fresh ingredients.
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6. Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor, Maine, is a classic New England coastal town that blends natural beauty with outdoor fun and small-town charm. Nestled beside Acadia National Park on Frenchman Bay, it draws visitors with rugged scenery, whale watching, and a lively downtown full of local character. The town’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, while nearby trails, boat tours, and the Bar Island Land Bridge offer plenty for outdoor lovers.
Food
The Travelin Lobster is a local favorite, known for fresh lobster rolls and a casual vibe. The Reading Room Restaurant offers upscale dining with picturesque harbor views and local seafood. Rose Eden Lobster offers generous portions in a relaxed picnic-table setting, perfect for lobster fans.
7. Anna Maria Island, Florida
Anna Maria Island stretches just seven miles along Florida’s Gulf Coast, yet its quiet charm leaves a lasting impression. Life here moves slowly. Bean Point, at the island’s tip, offers a secluded patch of beach where the sunsets seem to stop time.
Pine Avenue, which is close by, encourages exploring and fitting in with the pastel-colored buildings. It’s lined with family-owned boutiques, art galleries, and food spots. The island thrives on outdoor living. Dolphin tours, jet ski rentals, and evening cruises are easy to find, and it’s not uncommon to spot manatees drifting just offshore.
Food
In terms of dining, The Ugly Grouper stands out for its upbeat setting and signature grouper sandwich. With live music and breezy seating, it’s a favorite for both locals and weekenders.
For those chasing a view with their meal, the Beach House serves coconut shrimp and fish tacos. The Waterfront Restaurant offers fresh tuna sashimi and creative seafood dishes in a laid-back setting with water views. Classic Gulf cuisines are served at the Sandbar, which also offers a front-row ticket to the sunset. The Anna Maria Oyster Bar On The Pier leans into comfort food in the domain of fish and chips and seafood dips.
8. Fernandina Beach, Florida
Fernandina Beach sits on the northern tip of Amelia Island and is known for its well-preserved historic district and walkable downtown. The area features over 400 historic buildings, including the Palace Saloon and the Florida House Inn.
Centre Street is lined with small shops, galleries, and cafés. The village provides access to peaceful beaches, walking trails, and a marina, and also holds the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival every year. Activities like horseback riding on the beach and electric carriage tours are popular with visitors.
Food
Dining here leans local and casual, with a focus on seafood and Southern comfort. Wicked Bao serves pork ramen and kimchi rice in a modern space. España offers paella and classic tapas. Salty Pelican is the place to go for oysters and views of the marina. Down Under pairs seafood dishes with a peaceful riverfront setting. Arte Pizza delivers wood-fired pies and Italian plates. For breakfast or coffee, Amelia Island Coffee is a staple, while Tasty’s is known for burgers and shakes.
9. Delray Beach, Florida
Delray Beach blends coastal charm with a lively arts and culture scene. Shops, galleries, and restaurants may be found along Atlantic Avenue, a pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare that runs from the Intracoastal to the beach. Historic architecture ranges from Art Deco to Key West-style cottages, reflecting the town’s creative roots. Old School Square anchors the arts district, hosting galleries, performances, and festivals. Just outside town, the Morikami Museum offers Japanese gardens and cultural events.
Food
Delray Beach has an eclectic, chef-driven food scene with over 70 restaurants downtown. Deck 84 offers waterfront dining and a casual vibe. Dada serves inventive New American dishes. A stylish steakhouse with a robust drink program is Cut 432. Lionfish specializes in sustainable seafood, while Papa’s Tapas delivers Spanish-Caribbean small plates.
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10. Block Island, Rhode Island
Just a short ferry ride from the mainland, Block Island offers a low-key escape defined by coastal cliffs and Victorian charm. Mohegan Bluffs is a signature spot with its panoramic views and steep staircase down to a secluded beach. The Southeast Lighthouse stands nearby. It has an exceptional Fresnel Lens and is open for tours. The North Lighthouse anchors the quiet northern tip of this mostly protected land. Trails at Rodman’s Hollow and Clayhead offer peaceful hikes and birdwatching. Don’t forget to visit 1661’s farm while you’re at it.
Food
For classic waterfront dining, Dead Eye Dick’s overlooks the Great Salt Pond and is well-known for its lobster rolls and fresh catch. On the east side, The Beachhead Restaurant offers traditional New England fare with ocean views, while the 1661 Inn Restaurant serves American and seafood dishes in a historic, elegant setting. In town, Kimberly’s draws high marks for contemporary seafood and American dishes.
The Bottom Line
These beach towns offer more than beautiful shores from coast to coast—they each bring unique charm, culture, and local flavors that make them unforgettable coastal getaways.
