The Northeast is famous for its charming beach towns from Nantucket to the Hamptons, but that fame means beachgoers flock to coastal hotspots in New York, Rhode Island, Connecticut and Maine. You can’t go into the restaurant, and the line for ice cream stretches the entire block. You’re lucky to have plenty of space to yourself on the beach, not to mention towels and umbrellas. For those looking for a more laid-back stay, try visiting some of the hidden beach towns.
For example, New York’s Shelter Island boasts all the views and style of the Hamptons coastline, but some might say it has a quieter, more sophisticated feel. Meanwhile, Madison, Connecticut is filled with trendy boutiques and pristine views of Long Island Sound. Next, Castine, Maine has great cuisine and a rich nautical history. These spots and others on this list offer the same quintessential New England charm, and fewer people to bump into while eating a lobster roll.
shelter island, new york
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Accessible only by ferry, Shelter Island is a quiet neighbor to the Hamptons and is the perfect seaside retreat. The island is located between her two forks of Long Island and is known for its pristine beaches and beautiful manor houses. This summer enclave has a population of just about 3,000 people, nearly a third of its land is protected by conservation groups, and retains its rustic charm. Spend the day hanging out on the beach or trying your hand at sailing around Peconic Bay in a sloop (a Shelter Island rite of passage).
If you’re looking for an easy place to paddleboard in the morning and sip summer cocktails in the evening, stay at Sunset Beach Hotel. This stylish boutique hotel by Andre Barras offers stylish rooms, all with private terraces and views of the beach. Or just up the road is the intimate and charming Shelter Island House. This 19th-century hotel features his 11 rooms in an elegant style that represents the perfect coastal retreat. After a long day at the beach, sip an ice-cold IPA at the on-site bar or go for an evening swim in the outdoor pool.
Long Beach, New York
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The rolling sand dunes and boardwalks here are perfect for escaping the crowds and heat of Manhattan in the summer. Long Beach evolved into a cheerful coastal retreat that still holds true to its Long Island roots (think fried clams, fresh bagels, and Italian ice cream). A one-hour train ride from Penn Station, the barrier island is full of traditional restaurants and quirky shops. Even if you don’t have a car, you can cruise the boardwalk or ride your bike around town.
Hotels in Long Beach are in short supply, making it a better choice for a day trip than a multi-day vacation. However, if a day relaxing on the beach isn’t enough, book a stay at the Alegria Hotel, located right on the boardwalk. When you get hungry, stop by Jordan Lobster Farm, just across the Long Beach Bridge. This hidden gem is a favorite of Long Island locals for fresh lobster rolls and crispy fried clams and shrimp with dynamite homemade cocktail sauce (warning: it’s spicy). The restaurant overlooks the pier and you can watch the fishermen bring in their daily catch. If you have a sweet tooth and are looking forward to an afternoon treat, try the famous Marvel Frozen Her Dairy’s Soft Her Cream topped with sprinkles.
Madison, Connecticut
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Just off Interstate 95 between New York and Boston lies the picture-perfect beach town of Madison. Residents try to keep this coastal gem a secret, but it seems they can’t completely hide its idyllic scenery, trendy shops, and great restaurants. A short drive from the center of town, Hammonasset Beach State Park offers 2 miles of pristine beach on Long Island Sound.
The Madison Beach Hotel has 32 guest rooms, many with balconies overlooking the ocean. It also features a renowned spa, perfect for some R&R. In terms of food, Bar Bouchee is one of the best restaurants in Madison. The intimate space is decorated in classic French bistro design with tiled floors and woven Riviera chairs. The menu changes seasonally, but the cuisine is always gourmet with a Gallic touch.
mystic, connecticut
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This small town is known to some as the place where Julia Roberts famously hung up her apron as a waitress at Mystic Pizza. Sure, the real Mystic Pizza that inspired the movie still exists, but Mystic has also carved out a reputation of its own as a beach-adjacent gourmet destination. The beach closest to Mystic’s lively center is Williams Beach Park, which has a playground and calm waters and is a great spot for families. However, there are many other public beaches to visit within 32 miles of the village.
If you’re looking for an overnight stay, the famous Whaler’s Inn is the place to go. It’s just a short walk from all the downtown shops and restaurants, and has great views of the Mystic River. The complex has five of his buildings, but the most popular rooms are in his Hoxie House, where each corner room features plush leather sofas and a cozy fireplace. The freshly shucked shellfish delicacy of oyster crab is never far away. Another attraction is the Captain Daniel Packer Inne, a classic that has remained intact since 1756 and serves seafood dishes perfect for a coastal setting.
Newburyport, Massachusetts
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With a rich nautical history dating back to the 17th century, Newburyport is the ultimate coastal town with classic colonial architecture and quaint family-owned shops. Once a major shipbuilding port in the Northeast, this small city is perfect for maritime enthusiasts. Be sure to check out the famous Custom House Maritime Museum. An entire gallery is dedicated to meticulously crafted model ships. At Plum Island Beach, a 10-minute drive away, search for shells along a tidal stream or relax under an umbrella by the sand dunes.
Blue – Inn on the Beach is one of the best places to stay on Plum Island, with crisp, clean rooms overlooking the ocean. After spending plenty of time on the sand, try the award-winning local favorite Brine for dinner. As well as offering market fresh oysters, we also specialize in a variety of crudo dishes and caviar. And for sugar lovers, it will be hard to resist the aroma wafting from Buttermilk Baking Company’s freshly made, handmade pies. The bakery’s legendary peach muffins draw people from near and far to line up at the door every summer.
Brewster, Massachusetts
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Brewster is a laid-back alternative to Chatham or Provincetown without sacrificing Cape Cod’s charm. There are fewer hotels and guesthouses than in nearby coastal areas, but you can enjoy quiet beaches, great seafood, and spectacular whale watching. The hotel’s highlight is Ocean Edge Resort, a historic Victorian mansion perched on a cliff overlooking scenic Cape Cod Bay. The hotel is set on over 400 acres and features a manicured golf course, pool, tennis courts, and walking trails to explore. Guests can stay in the mansion’s rooms or choose a villa. When you’re hungry, The Brewster Fish House’s menu offers a sophisticated take on classic seafood dishes. Due to popularity, reservations are not accepted. Please try to go early.
Block Island, Rhode Island
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There are few cars on this island, and many bicycles. Just a short ferry ride from New London or Newport, this her 7,000 acre island is the perfect antidote to crowded Nantucket. The northern part of the island remains unspoiled and is home to wildlife rarely seen on the mainland. The southern half includes the quaint town of New Shoreham, where most of the hotels and restaurants are located. The island’s population may be small (about 1,000 to be exact), but in the summer this little oasis comes to life with festivals and sailing regattas.
Hotel Manisses offers great access to Balazs Beach. The 19th-century building’s exterior is reminiscent of a Victorian manor house, and the 17 rooms are beautifully appointed with gilded mirrors and claw-foot bathtubs. In addition to the hotel’s on-site restaurant, which is one of the best restaurants on the island, there is also an upscale restaurant called Eli’s where you can enjoy delicious New England cocktails and ocean views. Always choose Dark ‘n Stormy here.
Ogunquit, Maine
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Named by the Abenaki people to mean “beautiful place by the sea,” Ogunquit is known for its picturesque Barrier Peninsula and historical importance as an artists’ colony and fishing village. Closer to the rest of the East Coast than other popular Maine destinations like Kennebunkport and Portland, this bustling town is perfect for a weekend getaway. Not only is it a creative enclave filled with galleries and boutiques, but it’s also home to the established Ogunquit Playhouse, which offers acclaimed theatrical productions.
Cliff House, Ogunquit’s top hotel, is perched atop the rugged Bald Head cliff with spectacular views. It includes a coffee shop offering locally brewed blends and his Nubb’s Lobster Shack, serving traditional Maine dishes such as lobster rolls. Speaking of lobster rolls, the Lobster Shack in Perkins Cove has the best lobster rolls. The lobster is brought in by local anglers and served fresh with fries and chips. This place is also known for its New England chowder.
castine, maine
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This small seaside village may lack pristine sandy beaches, but Kastin makes up for it with an abundance of water activities and a rich nautical history. Penobscot Bay’s calm waters and small islands make kayaking and sailing ideal. There are also old military forts and the beautiful Dyce Head Lighthouse.
Castine quickly became a popular destination for eateries and pubs. The Pentagoein is without a doubt one of the most charming accommodations in Castine, and you will enjoy the hearty ales and eclectic atmosphere of the Mister’s Pub. As immaculately decorated as a Victorian inn, this pub is filled with antiques and travel trinkets that make you feel like you’re in a cafe in Kashmir rather than on the coast of Maine. It makes me feel good.