Everyone needs a little rest and relaxation in the summer time to soak up the sun and hit the beach. Summer towns have just what you need to kick back and enjoy what summer is all about, whether with family or friends. Amazing food, water views, sandy beaches and cute towns make up everything you need to have a great time in the warm weather.
1. Ogunquit, Maine
While some people don't think of Maine as their first choice for a summer vacation, there are so many fantastic coastal towns to choose from. Ogunquit has amazing water views from rivers to the Atlantic, as well as plenty of seafood and shops to keep you happy. Make sure you check out the Marginal Way cliff walk and take in the beautiful view.
2. Newport, Rhode Island
As one of the oldest cities in America, Newport is the perfect summer destination. Famous beaches, called First, Second and Third by locals are minutes away from the busy town filled with waterfront dining, fun nightlife and plenty of shops. There are also tons of cliffs to climb, hike on and explore. You can also go visit the historic mansions that line the roads.
3. Chatham, Massachusetts
Set in Cape Cod, Chatham has beautiful beaches and lighthouses to visit. Just make sure to watch out for sharks! Cape Cod in general is a great place to visit for the summer, but Chatham is notable for its luxurious real estate as well as its amazing shopping in town. Visit the famous Chatham Bars Inn for dinner with a view.
4. Block Island, Rhode Island
Although you need a boat or a ferry to get there, Block Island is well worth the trip. The low-key atmosphere of the island has tons of beaches to go to in any direction as well as very cool hiking trails. You can rent mopeds to get around the island more easily.
5. Montauk/The Hamptons, New York
At the end of the South Fork of Long Island lies the coastal town of Montauk. Perfect for surfing and lined with beautiful beaches and hotels, it is very popular in the summer. Go to Gosman's for the perfect lobster and the Sloppy Tuna for a fun night out. Drive through the Hamptons before for great shopping or to visit a famous beach on Dune Road and see the celebrity mansions.
6. Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic is a charming town with lots of history. They have a world-famous aquarium and a gorgeous seaport to walk around and explore the town. Although the beaches are a little more rocky, they still offer beautiful sunsets.
7. Shelter Island, New York
A small island off the coast of Eastern Long Island, Shelter Island is so popular in the summer its population more than triples. It's only a short ferry ride. Famous hotels line the beaches and a large nature conservancy makes up the island for great kayaking and hiking. Take part in the historic barbecues on the water.
8. Bethany Beach, Delaware
A classic summer town, Bethany Beach is built around a giant boardwalk filled with restaurants and shops. Most hotels are just steps from the beach and the atmosphere is super casual and relaxing.
9. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire
Although the name may be hard to pronounce, this lake is super popular in the summer. Docks and lake houses line the shore and there is endless boating, tubing and swimming to do. There are fireworks shows, lake cruises and the world's largest arcade as well.
10. Nantucket, Massachusetts
A famous island off of Cape Cod, Nantucket that is hugely popular. There's a million things to do and plenty of beaches you can even drive your car onto. One beach, Nobadeer, is known for its crazy Fourth of July beach party. Shopping, great restaurants, museums and golf are just some of the many activities to do here.
11. Fire Island, New York
Fire Island is also a short ferry or boat ride away. With no cars allowed during the season, everyone walks or rides bikes. Huge sandy beaches cover the island and every town has wonderful waterfront dining and amazing nightlife, especially in Ocean Beach. The casual atmosphere is also perfect for a nice day trip.
Whether you have a favorite summer destination, either on this list or not, I feel that every one is worth checking out. Summer is the perfect time to relax and work on your tan and let reality take a back seat for a little.
