Did your beach vacation get canceled this year? Are you already experiencing the doldrums of dreary December days? Our team is hopeful that 2021 will provide more opportunities to enjoy the world around us than this past year, and we want to provide you some assistance as you prepare for 2021. While our readers did not physically travel to the same extent that they are used to, they did spend a great deal of time virtually soaking up the proverbial sun, and we wanted to share with you the most popular beach towns that our readers got excited about in 2020. We hope that just reading through these articles will provide you a much-needed lift after a strenuous year.
Sausalito, California
Just across the bay from San Francisco, you will find the relaxed seaside town of Sausalito. Great views abound as you make your way around while dining and shopping. Read more to learn our recommendations for how to spend a restful day in Sausalito.
Pass-A-Grille, Florida
If you are looking for a retreat from corporate consumerism, you will want to consider Pass-A-Grille. The small beach town does not boast any corporate fast-food or shopping chains, just good-ole-fashioned small-town America with a beach! Here are our tips for the 9 best things to see and do while passing through Pass-A-Grille Florida.
Newport, Rhode Island
A town oozing with New England charm, Newport boasts outstanding views of the water and is steeped in history surrounding sailing and the boating industry. Read Sandi Barrett’s suggestions on how to spend the perfect weekend in beautiful Newport.
Islamorada, Florida
If you are en route between Miami and Key West, then the six-key community of Islamorada is a natural stopping off point during your journey. Enjoy the mouthwatering food, stunning wildlife, and thrilling water sport options that abound in this little section of paradise. Here are our recommendations for how to spend one amazing day in Islamorada.
Narragansett, Rhode Island
A town with a history steeped in summer-long retreats for those seeking to party on the coast, Narragansett provides a more laid-back atmosphere these days with beachgoers more often opting for day and weekend trips. Try out these 9 exciting things to do in the charming beach town of Narragansett during your next trip.
Cape May, New Jersey
Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of NYC? Just drive to the southern tip of New Jersey and you will arrive in one of the oldest resort towns in the country, offering up a little something for everybody. Read more to learn why Cape May is New Jersey’s best-kept secret.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach offers up picturesque views of the rugged coastline of northwest Oregon, perfect for the sunbather and hiker alike. Natural beauty abounds, providing an abundance of opportunities to experience unspoiled nature. Erika Ebsworth-Goold shares her favorite ways to make the most of a perfect weekend in Cannon Beach.
Kona, Hawaii
No visit to the Big Island would be complete without enjoying all that the western shore district of Kona has to offer. Take in the views, enjoy some world-class coffee, and take a dip in the crystal blue waters of the Pacific. Enjoy all of this and more as you experience the best of beautiful Kona.
Stinson Beach, California
Drive just north of the Bay Area and you will arrive at the white sands of Stinson Beach. With no hotels and limited parking, this day trip destination may require some extra planning on your part, but you will be rewarded for your time once you experience the fun and sun of this quaint town. Read more about how to spend a perfect day in Stinson Beach.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Once a sleepy seaside town, Rehoboth Beach is not quite a secret anymore but is still a great beach town you may not have heard about before. Come join the scores of fellow sand and sun lovers that make this town their retreat during the warm summer months, or come out during the off-season when the area is less crowded to enjoy the small town charm. Let us help you plan a lovely weekend getaway to Rehoboth Beach.
Jekyll Island, Georgia
Just off the coast of Georgia between Savannah and Jacksonville, you will find the enchanting Jekyll Island. The island became a haven of the wealthy elite in the late 1800s. If you are interested in relaxing in the same space that once housed a Rockefeller or a Pulitzer, Jekyll Island is just the place for you. Come any time of the year, but here are a few notable experiences to enjoy during the holidays on Jekyll Island.
Gulfport, Mississippi
If outdoor activities excite you, Gulfport will keep you entertained for days. From sandy beaches to kayaking to wildlife viewing, here are the best things to see and do in Gulfport.
Provincetown, Massachusetts
Drive to Cape Cod and then drive a little further, and eventually you will arrive at the very tip of Massachusetts. The road to Provincetown can become quite crowded in the summer, but the wait will be well worth it once you arrive as P-Town is a summer-lover’s paradise. See our picks for the best things to do in Provincetown.
If you need more inspiration to transport you out of these cold dreary winter days, enjoy the rest of our great beach content as you make plans for fun and sun in 2021.