Travel The Globe

Exploring, One Journey at a Time

US Beach Towns Worth Visiting Outside of Florida

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by

Karl Mergille
in

Skip the crowds, skip the chaos, and find your perfect beach escape.

Most people think of Miami as fun, vibrant, and iconic. I never really understood the hype around it and probably never will. Crowds are not my thing. I much prefer a beach or a spot where I can actually relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Many people love Miami for its nightlife, luxury hotels, and high energy. Others complain about how crowded it is, how expensive it can get, and how busy it feels year round.

For travelers who want beautiful beaches without the chaos, there are dozens of underrated coastal towns across the United States. These spots often offer better views, calmer vibes, and much better prices.

Whether you love a nightlife by the water feel like Dewey Beach, a funky surf town like Folly Beach, or a quiet nature escape like Jekyll Island, these destinations give you all the sunshine. You get it all without the Miami madness.

Here are 10 underrated beach towns to visit instead of Miami, each with its own charm, character, and crowd-free shores.

Dewey Beach, Delaware

Dewey Beach is a small, lively town that feels refreshingly simple and the complete opposite of Miami’s high-rise, nonstop energy. I’ve been to Dewey multiple times, and I love it every visit. It has that classic East Coast beach town vibe that makes you feel relaxed but still gives you plenty to do.

Some of my favorite spots include the Lighthouse Restaurant, where the seafood and views are unbeatable, and the Starboard Restaurant, a local favorite for drinks and casual bites right by the water. Of course, the beaches themselves are wide, clean, and perfect for a morning stroll or just lounging in the sun.

Dewey is also close to Rehoboth Beach, which is worth an honorable mention for its boardwalk, shops, and slightly bigger town feel. Dewey offers the perfect balance of fun nights, peaceful mornings, and great local food, all without the sky-high prices and overwhelming crowds of bigger coastal cities.

Folly Beach, South Carolina

Folly Beach gives off the same carefree vibe as Dewey Beach but with a Southern charm all its own. I have spent time here and love the mix of surf culture, quirky local spots, and genuinely friendly people. It is the kind of place where flip flops practically count as formal wear and every bar feels like a local hangout.

Some of my favorite things to do include checking out the small surf shops, grabbing fresh seafood at the pier, or just walking along the wide sandy beaches watching the waves. Plus, downtown Charleston is only about ten minutes away if you want a taste of city life, history, or more upscale dining.

Folly Beach is relaxed, real, and one of the most authentic coastal towns on the East Coast. It is easy to see why people keep coming back. It has that perfect balance of a laid back beach town with enough culture and character to explore.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Just 20 minutes from Savannah, Tybee Island is a charming, colorful escape that feels a world away from crowded tourist spots. It’s ideal for travelers who want a calm, laid-back beach experience without the chaos.

Visitors love:

  • Dolphin tours, kayaking, and other low-key water adventures
  • Long, slow-paced beach days where you can actually relax
  • Fresh local seafood at small, unassuming shacks
  • Quaint pastel cottages that make staying here feel like a mini-vacation

Tybee is perfect for couples and families looking for a quiet, picturesque getaway. The pace is slow, the vibe is friendly, and the beaches are just wide and open enough to soak up the sun without feeling packed.

Cape Charles, Virginia

Cape Charles feels like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Nestled on Virginia’s scenic Eastern Shore, this small town sits right on the Chesapeake Bay. The calm shallow waters are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or just wading along the shore.

The town itself is full of charm. Its historic district features brick streets, boutique shops, and beautifully preserved Victorian homes. Cozy inns and B and Bs make it easy to stay right in the heart of town. You are just steps away from local cafes and seafood spots serving fresh catch from the bay.

Sunsets here are truly unforgettable. They paint the water and sky in brilliant shades of orange and pink. It is the perfect backdrop for an evening stroll or a romantic dinner.

Whether you are looking for a quiet family getaway or a relaxing solo escape, Cape Charles offers a peaceful pace and charming scenery. It gives that rare feeling of being somewhere special that not everyone knows about.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Yes, Alabama has beaches and Gulf Shores proves they can rival anywhere else on the Gulf Coast. The town sits on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico, giving visitors soft powdery white sand, clear emerald green water, and plenty of space to relax without feeling crowded.

Gulf Shores is more than just beaches. You can rent a small boat or paddle-board to explore nearby bayous, watch dolphins play at sunset, or stroll along the coast while the salty breeze rolls in. The views here are classic Gulf Coast beauty with wide open skies, sparkling water, and sand stretching for miles.

Food is a highlight. Fresh Gulf shrimp, oysters, and crab are served at local seafood restaurants with waterfront views. Beach bars offer live music and cold drinks, making it easy to unwind after a day in the sun.

Whether you are visiting with family, a group of friends, or on a solo getaway, Gulf Shores offers a mix of natural beauty, casual charm, and southern hospitality. It is a budget friendly alternative to busier coastal destinations while still delivering the full beach experience.

Oak Island, North Carolina

Oak Island often stays under the radar because the Outer Banks get all the attention, but this quiet barrier island has plenty to offer. The beaches are wide and uncrowded, perfect for morning walks, building sandcastles, or just stretching out in the sun without bumping elbows with strangers.

The town itself is relaxed and family friendly with a residential feel, giving visitors a chance to stay in cozy vacation rentals or small inns right near the water. Local seafood is a highlight, with small restaurants serving fresh shrimp, crab, and oysters caught right off the coast.

For anyone looking for a low key beach week with calm waters, beautiful sunsets, and genuine southern charm, Oak Island is the perfect getaway. Its peaceful pace and natural beauty make it a hidden treasure along North Carolina’s coast.

Popham Beach, Maine

Popham Beach is one of Maine’s quiet coastal treasures, located at the mouth of the Kennebec River where it meets the Atlantic Ocean. The beach stretches for miles with soft sand, tidal pools, and rugged rock formations, offering endless opportunities for exploration.

Visitors come for:

  • Wide open beaches with plenty of space to relax
  • Scenic views of the river, ocean, and historic Fort Popham
  • Tide pooling, kayaking, and long walks along the shore
  • Fresh seafood from nearby local markets and small restaurants

Popham Beach has a peaceful, untouched vibe that makes it perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a slower pace. Unlike busier coastal towns, the area feels intimate and welcoming, with charming inns and vacation rentals tucked just behind the dunes. Sunsets over the ocean are breathtaking, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange, and low tide reveals sandbars perfect for long walks or watching shorebirds.

For travelers looking for a coastal escape that combines natural beauty, quiet beaches, and a touch of history, Popham Beach is an East Coast gem worth discovering.

Port Aransas, Texas

Located on Mustang Island along the Texas Gulf Coast, Port Aransas combines classic beach life with a quirky, artsy charm. The town is friendly and laid back, making it easy to unwind and enjoy the water without feeling crowded.

Visitors come for:

  • Warm Gulf waters, fishing trips, and dolphin watching excursions
  • Cozy coffee shops, local art galleries, and casual beach bars
  • Long stretches of soft sand for sunbathing, walking, or shelling
  • A fun atmosphere that is lively but never overwhelming

Port Aransas is perfect for travelers who want a beach destination with personality and character. The combination of coastal beauty, small town charm, and easygoing energy makes it an ideal escape for families, couples, or anyone looking to relax and soak up the sun.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

For travelers who are drawn to dramatic scenery over warm sand, Cannon Beach is a coastal gem unlike any other. The town sits along Oregon’s rugged coastline, offering wide sandy beaches framed by towering cliffs and dense evergreen forests.

Visitors come for:

  • The iconic Haystack Rock, home to seabirds and tide pools waiting to be explored
  • Majestic cliffs and windswept coastline perfect for long walks and photography
  • Charming boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes serving local coffee and fresh pastries
  • Cooler temperatures and fresh ocean air, ideal for escaping the summer heat

Cannon Beach is not a typical tropical destination. Its magic lies in the combination of wild natural beauty, quaint small town charm, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Sunsets here are especially stunning. They cast dramatic light over the rocks and waves. The views make every moment feel unforgettable. Cannon Beach is a must visit for anyone seeking a truly memorable coastal experience.

Klipsan Beach, Washington

Klipsan Beach is a hidden treasure along Washington’s Long Beach Peninsula. Offering wide open beaches, towering sand dunes, and a peaceful coastal escape. The area feels remote but welcoming, perfect for travelers looking to unwind away from crowded tourist spots.

Visitors love:

  • Endless stretches of soft sand ideal for walking, beachcombing, or flying kites
  • Stunning ocean views with dramatic sunsets over the Pacific
  • Nearby small towns with cozy cafes, local art galleries, and charming inns
  • A quiet, laid back vibe where nature takes center stage

Klipsan Beach is perfect for families, couples, or anyone seeking a serene getaway. With its unspoiled coastline and gentle waves, Klipsan Beach feels like a true escape. The peaceful surroundings make it easy to unwind and leave the world behind. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest at their own pace. It is the perfect spot for a calm, coastal retreat.

Quick Tip:

When traveling to these beaches and resorts, I’ve found that bundling packages can sometimes be the best option. For example, we went to Savannah, South Carolina, and Hilton Head for a wedding. We booked a bundle that included a car, hotel, and flight, which saved us $1,300.

Because of that, we had more funds to enjoy activities and explore. Since we arrived a day early, I was able to drive out to Folly Beach and spend a few hours there. It was a bit of a drive, but it was totally worth it.

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