Jump to section Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Copy URL Email The cards we feature here are from partners who compensate us when you are approved through our site, and this may impact how or where these products appear. We don’t cover all available credit cards, but our analysis, reviews, and opinions are entirely from our editorial team. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information. The main requirement of a great beach town is, obviously, proximity to a great beach. But even though there are thousands of beautiful seaside towns across the country, not all of them make for an ideal weekend escape — whether due to inconvenience, lack of charm or some other factor.
So we've taken the guesswork out of the planning equation for you, and rounded up a list of U.S. towns that are relatively close to cities and airports, have plenty of activities and, of course, offer easy access to a beautiful beach (or two or three).
Related: 7 great family beach vacations to kick off summer
Lighthouses, lobster shacks, rocky coves, quaint houses — everything that comes to mind when you imagine Maine, you can find in Ogunquit. Main Beach and Footbridge Beach are the most convenient beach options from town, but you can also head a bit farther out to Wells Beach or Drakes Island Beach for a day in the sun. Don't leave Ogunquit without strolling scenic Marginal Way, eating dinner in Perkins Cove and checking out the Ogunquit Museum of American Art.
The town is a popular summer destination, so expect crowds or plan to visit during the calmer shoulder season. It's just over an hourlong drive from Boston , and there are plenty of train and bus options. It's also about 45 mins from Portland International Jetport (PWM), which offers flights from many destinations across the U.S.
Related: How to save thousands on a luxe weekend getaway to Maine's coastal towns using points
No U.S. beach town list would be complete without a California destination. In a state famous for its picturesque Pacific coastline, it's impossible to choose the best beach town. But for an easy weekend getaway with plenty of things to do, you can't go wrong with Encinitas. About 30 minutes from downtown San Diego and about two hours from Los Angeles (you can even take the Amtrak there), this town is home to the San Diego Botanic Garden and stellar hiking spots like San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve and Annie's Canyon Trail, as well as a smattering of art galleries, clothing stores, breweries and farmers markets.
The best beaches for lounging include Moonlight and Swami's, while the best for surfing are Grandview and Beacon's. And of course, you'll find all the taco stands, surf shops and palm tree-lined streets that you'd expect from Southern California.
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