The Best Coastal Towns in New England for a Summer Getaway

New England’s coastline transforms in the summer, offering a mix of charming seaside villages, scenic harbors, and lively beach destinations. From Maine’s rugged shores to Connecticut’s serene coastal retreats, the region boasts an array of picturesque spots perfect for a warm-weather escape.

Whether you're seeking a quiet stretch of sand, fresh seafood, or classic New England charm, these coastal towns promise unforgettable summer experiences.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunkport exudes coastal charm with its scenic waterfront, historic homes, and thriving culinary scene. Dock Square serves as the town’s vibrant center, lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants. Spend the day at Goose Rocks Beach, where soft sand and gentle waves create an ideal setting for relaxation. For those eager to explore, a boat tour along the Kennebunk River offers spectacular views and the chance to see the Bush family’s famous summer retreat, Walker’s Point.

The Seashore Trolley Museum adds a unique historical touch, showcasing vintage streetcars from around the world. Dining in Kennebunkport is a highlight, with spots like The Clam Shack serving some of the freshest lobster rolls in Maine. Those craving a farm-to-table experience can enjoy local seafood with a creative twist at Earth at Hidden Pond.

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport’s deep blue waters and historic mansions create a stunning backdrop for a summer getaway. The Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile coastal trail, offers breathtaking ocean views alongside the grandeur of the city’s famous Gilded Age estates. Sailing enthusiasts can take to Narragansett Bay, while beach lovers will find soft sands at Easton’s Beach and Gooseberry Beach. Thames Street and Bowen’s Wharf offer a lively atmosphere with seafood restaurants, cafes, and boutique shopping.

The town’s rich sailing history comes alive at the International Tennis Hall of Fame and the annual Newport Folk Festival, making it a dynamic destination for history and music lovers. Visitors can also tour the Breakers, Marble House, and other grand mansions that once belonged to America’s wealthiest families, offering a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyles of the past.

Rockport, Massachusetts

Rockport, a quintessential New England fishing village, enchants visitors with its scenic harbor, colorful fishing shacks, and vibrant arts community. Motif No. 1, the town’s famous red fishing shack, remains a favorite for photographers and painters. Bearskin Neck, a narrow street filled with eclectic shops and galleries, offers everything from handcrafted jewelry to homemade fudge. Halibut Point State Park provides panoramic ocean views and scenic walking trails along rocky cliffs.

A summer visit isn’t complete without a seafood feast at Roy Moore Lobster Co., where you can enjoy freshly caught lobster while overlooking the harbor. Kayakers and paddleboarders can explore the town’s calm waters, while nearby beaches like Front Beach provide a scenic place to soak up the sun.

Mystic, Connecticut

Mystic blends historic charm with a lively waterfront, making it a perfect summer escape. The Mystic Seaport Museum, a living history attraction, transports visitors back to New England’s seafaring past with its restored ships and recreated 19th-century village. Mystic Aquarium offers up-close encounters with beluga whales and sea lions. Downtown Mystic brims with restaurants and shops, with the famous Mystic Pizza serving up a slice of local pop culture.

The nearby beaches of Eastern Point and Williams Beach Park provide a tranquil setting for a summer afternoon by the water. For a unique experience, take a sunset cruise on the Mystic River or explore the area’s rich shipbuilding history by boarding the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaling ship in the world.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor’s rugged beauty and vibrant town center make it an ideal spot for travelers who love both adventure and relaxation. As the gateway to Acadia National Park, the town offers easy access to hiking trails, scenic drives, and Cadillac Mountain, where visitors can catch the first sunrise in the US.

Frenchman Bay provides opportunities for kayaking, whale watching, and scenic boat tours. Downtown Bar Harbor is lively in the summer, with local shops, seafood restaurants, and ice cream parlors lining the streets.

Indulge in a traditional Maine lobster bake at one of the waterfront restaurants, and take in the breathtaking coastal scenery. Nature lovers can also explore the scenic Carriage Roads, originally built by John D. Rockefeller Jr., which offer tranquil biking and walking paths through the park’s lush landscapes.

Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Watch Hill offers a peaceful retreat with its pristine beaches, upscale ambiance, and historic landmarks. The Ocean House, a grand Victorian-style resort, overlooks the Atlantic and provides fine dining, spa treatments, and sweeping ocean views. Napatree Point Beach is a quiet, unspoiled stretch of sand perfect for sunbathing and long walks. The town’s charming downtown features high-end boutiques, local ice cream shops, and the nation’s oldest operating carousel.

Enjoy an elegant, slower-paced escape while still experiencing the beauty of Rhode Island’s coastline. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Napatree Point Conservation Area offers birdwatching and stunning sunsets, making it a perfect spot to end a leisurely summer day.

Provincetown, Massachusetts

Provincetown, located at the tip of Cape Cod, is known for its dynamic arts scene, stunning beaches, and welcoming atmosphere. Commercial Street is the heart of the town, lined with art galleries, seafood restaurants, and lively entertainment venues. Race Point Beach and Herring Cove Beach offer stunning ocean views and soft sand, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Whale-watching excursions from Provincetown Harbor provide an unforgettable experience, with sightings of humpback and minke whales throughout the summer.

The nearby Cape Cod National Seashore offers hiking trails and dunes that showcase the area’s natural beauty. Those interested in history can visit the Pilgrim Monument, which commemorates the Mayflower’s first landing in Provincetown in 1620. As the sun sets, enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants or experience the town’s vibrant nightlife, filled with live performances and beachside bonfires.

Where the Ocean Meets Timeless Charm

Each of these coastal towns offers its own unique slice of New England’s charm, blending historic character, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant summer energy. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood, exploring scenic trails, or strolling through charming downtowns, a trip to these destinations promises unforgettable experiences by the sea.

With the Atlantic breeze in your hair and the scent of saltwater in the air, a New England summer getaway is the perfect way to soak up the season’s magic. From the rugged shores of Maine to the sandy beaches of Rhode Island, each stop along the coast provides a new adventure waiting to be discovered.