Best Beach Towns for Retirees Who Want to Wake Up by the Ocean

Picture waking up to the soothing sound of ocean waves, feeling the gentle caress of salty sea breeze on your skin. Retiring to a beach town offers the perfect blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and vibrant community. Here, we'll explore some of the best beach towns that cater to retirees seeking an idyllic coastal lifestyle.

From the charming shores of Myrtle Beach to the sun-kissed paradise of Naples, these coastal gems provide a haven where retirees can bask in the warmth of year-round sunshine, indulge in beachfront activities, and embrace a more relaxed pace of life. We'll uncover the unique features and attractions that make each town a desirable destination for retirees looking to settle down by the ocean.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach on the Atlantic Coast is a favorite among retirees for its affordability and scenic charm. It boasts 60 miles of sandy beaches and a picturesque boardwalk along the oceanfront. The area is famous for its vibrant community and year-round sunshine, making it a welcoming destination for seniors.

The cost of living in Myrtle Beach is quite reasonable, and you can find single-story homes or comfortable condos starting at around $220,000. Healthcare options are abundant here, including the Grand Strand Medical Center, which is highly regarded for senior care. The town’s low crime rate makes it especially appealing for retirees seeking peace of mind.

Myrtle Beach offers endless recreational opportunities. You can enjoy fishing right off the pier, walking along the boardwalk, or playing golf at one of the area’s many golf courses, like Pebble Beach Golf Links. There are also local markets, such as Pike Place Market, and quaint restaurants serving fresh seafood, like The Lobster Shack, for a delightful culinary experience.

Naples, Florida

Naples is located on Florida’s Gulf Coast and is synonymous with elegance and coastal beauty. Its pristine white-sand beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, and the sunsets over the Gulf are nothing short of breathtaking.

Naples has a higher cost of living than some other towns on this list, but it remains a popular destination for retirees thanks to its exceptional amenities. Housing typically starts around $500,000 for well-maintained homes near the beach. Seniors benefit from highly regarded healthcare facilities, including the award-winning NCH Healthcare System.

The town is also celebrated for its outdoor activities and cultural scene. Retirees can take nature walks in the nearby Everglades, spend their days sailing, or enjoy performances at the Naples Philharmonic. With its mild winters and sun-soaked days, Naples offers the perfect environment for an active, fulfilling retirement.

Santa Barbara, California

Known as the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara on California’s Pacific Coast is the definition of coastal sophistication. Its rugged cliffs, dazzling sandy beaches, and iconic red-tile roofs create an enchanting atmosphere.

While the cost of living here is relatively high, averaging $1 million for homes with ocean views, Santa Barbara stands out for its unparalleled quality of life. Seniors have access to world-class healthcare through Cottage Health’s specialized senior programs. The town also boasts low crime rates, providing a safe and secure environment.

Retirees can enjoy everything from wine tasting in the nearby Santa Ynez Valley to paddleboarding in the calm waters of the Pacific. Santa Barbara’s charming downtown features a mix of art galleries like Sullivan Goss and Waterhouse Gallery, farmers’ markets such as the Santa Barbara Certified Farmers' Market, and boutique shops like Lovebird and Plum Goods, ensuring endless opportunities to explore.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores is a hidden gem on the Gulf Coast, offering miles of soft, white-sand beaches and a friendly, small-town atmosphere. It’s a budget-friendly option for retirees who want to enjoy the beach without breaking the bank.

The cost of living in Gulf Shores is very affordable, with home prices starting around $250,000. Healthcare is well within reach, with South Baldwin Regional Medical Center providing excellent care for seniors. The town is also known to be one of the Gulf's safest communities.

Recreational activities include kayaking, fishing, and bird-watching at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Gulf Shores also hosts regular community events like the Annual Shrimp Festival, farmers’ markets such as the Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen's Market, and casual eateries like The Hangout and Lulu's, which offer delicious Southern cuisine.

Cape May, New Jersey

Famous for its Victorian charm and relaxed pace of life, Cape May is a delightful coastal town located at the southern tip of New Jersey. Its beaches are calm and clean, and the historic town makes for a perfect morning stroll. Cape May combines affordability with quality living. Homes here start at around $300,000, and healthcare is easily accessible at Cape Regional Medical Center. The town’s welcoming and safe environment makes it appealing as a retirement destination.

For activities, retirees can enjoy whale-watching tours, join birding clubs, or Savor fresh seafood at one of the town’s elegant waterfront restaurants, such as The Seaside Grill, Ocean View Bistro, or Harbor's Edge Dining. Its four-season climate provides variety throughout the year, including quiet winters and vibrant, activity-filled summers.

Galveston, Texas

The Texas coast has its gem in Galveston, a lively town known for its beaches and Victorian-era architecture. The town’s vibrant community and affordable living make it a popular choice for retirees. Home prices in Galveston are attractively low, starting in the $200,000s. Healthcare services include the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) hospital, which offers senior-focused programs. The town also boasts a community vibe with low crime rates.

Recreational options abound in Galveston, from exploring the historic Strand District to enjoying leisurely beach days. Retirees can also join senior activities at Moody Gardens or take in local theater performances at The Grand 1894 Opera House.

St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, the oldest city in the US, offers a mix of history and beachfront living. It is on Florida’s northeast coast and features sandy beaches, historic landmarks, and a warm, welcoming community. Retirees are drawn to St. Augustine for its affordable cost of living, with modest homes available starting around $250,000. The town provides excellent healthcare services, including Flagler Hospital, which is highly rated for senior care.

Activity-wise, retirees can tour monuments like the Castillo de San Marcos, enjoy golf at the World Golf Village, or simply unwind on Crescent Beach. St. Augustine also has a growing community of seniors, making it easy to connect with like-minded individuals.

Make the Ocean Your Backyard

There’s something undeniably soothing about life by the ocean, where the rhythm of the waves sets the pace for your days. The best beach towns for retirees aren’t just about sun and sand—they’re havens of tranquility, community, and opportunities to embrace a lifestyle that feels like a perpetual vacation.

Whether it’s morning strolls along the shore, evenings with breathtaking sunsets, or the charm of coastal living, these towns offer a unique blend of relaxation and activity tailored for your golden years. Beyond their natural beauty, they provide welcoming neighborhoods, accessible amenities, and the chance to cultivate an enriching and serene life.