6Coastal Towns and Cities To Visit In New England

New England’s coastline is lined with towns and cities that offer a perfect blend of seaside charm, rich history, and local flavor. From sandy beaches and scenic harbors to walkable downtowns and fresh seafood, each destination has its own unique appeal. In this post, we’ll highlight some of the top coastal spots to visit across New England for your next getaway.

Newport, Rhode Island

Ocean view with rocky shoreline, green vegetation, and a distant building. Waves gently crash against the rocks under a blue sky with scattered clouds. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Newport, Rhode Island is a coastal gem known for its historic charm, oceanfront beauty, and vibrant culture. From iconic Gilded Age mansions, like The Breakers, to the scenic Cliff Walk, it offers something for every traveler. There’s something for everyone in this beautiful town.
Discover things to do in Newport: 12 Things to do in Newport, Rhode Island

Stonington, Connecticut

Coastal view of a shoreline with rocks, vegetation, buildings, and a water tower under a cloudy sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Stonington, Connecticut is a charming seaside town packed with history, coastal views, and a welcoming small-town vibe. It has a historic lighthouse, local shops, fresh seafood, and plenty of coastal access. Stonington offers a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration.
Discover things to do in Stonington: Things To Do In Stonington Connecticut

Westerly, Rhode Island

A sandy path leads to a beach at sunset, with a few people walking near the shoreline; grasses and a wooden fence line the path. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Westerly, Rhode Island is a coastal town that’s known for its sandy beaches, charming downtown, and vibrant local culture. With a scenic coastline, boutique shopping, and great dining options, it’s an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Discover things to do in Westerly: Things to do in Westerly, Rhode Island

Niantic, Connecticut

A beach with a few people walking by the shoreline and houses on a hill in the background under a sunny sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele

Niantic is a small coastal town that offers laid-back charm, scenic waterfronts, and a laid-back vibe. This town is perfect for a weekend getaway. It’s known for its boardwalk, seafood, walkable downtown, and beaches (like Rocky Neck State Park).
Discover things to do in Niantic: 14 Things To Do In Niantic, Connecticut

Gloucester, Massachusetts

Fishing boats docked at a harbor, with lobster traps on the pier and a clock tower and brick buildings in the background under a cloudy sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Gloucester, Massachusetts is a working seaport with deep roots in fishing, art, and coastal adventure. Just an hour from Boston, it offers stunning beaches, fresh seafood, and a rich maritime history. Whether you’re looking to explore downtown, tour a historic site, or hop on a boat tour, this town has something for everyone.
Discover things to do in Gloucester: Things to do in Gloucester, Massachusetts

Boothbay Harbor, Maine

A small motorboat floats on calm water near a dock, with coastal buildings and trees lining the shore in the background under a partly cloudy sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Tucked along Maine’s rugged coastline, Boothbay Harbor is a classic New England seaside town that delivers big on charm, scenery, and coastal adventure. While it’s not as quiet as some of the other coastal towns in Maine, it has plenty to do year-round. In the winter, the Gardens Aglow at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is one of the top holiday attractions in New England.
Learn more about one of the top attractions in town: Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

South Norwalk, Connecticut

A three-story brick building with businesses on the ground floor, including Eco Evolution and Washington Prime, under a partly cloudy sky. A traffic cone is visible on the street corner. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

South Norwalk, Connecticut, also known as SoNo, is a lively waterfront district packed with dining, shopping, and entertainment. From the Maritime Aquarium to historic charm, it’s a go-to spot for a quick day trip or weekend escape. And, it’s easily accessible by train.
Discover one of the top attractions in town: Visiting Sheffield Island Lighthouse In Norwalk, CT

Old Lyme, Connecticut

Sunset over a sandy beach with calm waves and scattered clouds. Houses are visible in the distance on the right. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Old Lyme is a quiet coastal town known for its historic charm, art heritage, and scenic beauty. From local galleries and museums to relaxing beaches and nature preserves, it’s the perfect spot for a peaceful New England getaway. Be sure to visit Ferry Landing State Park and the Florence Griswold Museum during your visit.
Discover things to do in Old Lyme: Things To Do In Old Lyme, Connecticut

Guilford, Connecticut

A small, red wooden shed stands on a sandy beach with lush green trees in the background under a bright blue sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Guilford is a classic New England town with a historic green, charming shops, and scenic shoreline. It offers a mix of outdoor activities, local dining, and small-town atmosphere just a short drive from New Haven. It’s a great spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Discover things to do in Guilford: Things To Do In Guilford, CT

Jamestown, Rhode Island

People sitting on rocky shore near a lighthouse with a red roof and adjacent buildings. Ocean and blue sky in the background. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Jamestown offers stunning ocean views, historic sites, and a relaxed island vibe. Located between Newport and the mainland, it’s perfect for a peaceful getaway with access to beaches, lighthouses, and local seafood. You will also find great views of the The Claiborne Pell Bridge from here.
Discover one of the top spots in Jamestown: Beavertail State Park

Provincetown, Massachusetts

A solitary lighthouse stands amid dry grass and bushes under a clear blue sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Provincetown sits at the tip of Cape Cod and is known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful beaches, and its inclusive, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re into galleries, whale watching, or just relaxing by the ocean, Provincetown offers something for every traveler. You’ll also find two Cape Cod lighthouses here.
Discover one of the top spots to visit in town: Provincetown Causeway

Milford, Connecticut

A small tree stands on a rocky outcrop by the water, with grassy areas and another tree-covered island in the background under a clear sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Milford is one of those charming coastal towns that has a little bit of everything. It has scenic views, great food, and a relaxed vibe. I’ve spent time exploring its beaches, trails, and local gems, and there’s always something new to enjoy. It’s great for a day trip or weekend trip.
Discover things to do in Milford: Things To Do In Milford, Connecticut

Bar harbor, Maine

Rocky coastline with waves crashing on the shore, a forested hill in the background, and a clear blue sky above. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Bar Harbor is a gateway to Acadia National Park and one of New England’s most scenic coastal towns. With breathtaking ocean views, outdoor adventures, and fresh local seafood, it’s a top spot for nature lovers and relaxed travelers alike. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, consider visiting in September.
Discover things to do in Bar Harbor: Top 17 Things To Do In Bar Harbor, Maine

Rockland, Maine

A weathered white lighthouse keeper's house with green shutters stands on a stone foundation next to a red brick lighthouse tower under a cloudy sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Rockland is a vibrant coastal town known for its thriving arts scene, fresh seafood, and stunning waterfront views. With galleries, festivals, and easy access to nearby islands like Monhegan Island, it’s a must-visit for culture and nature lovers alike. It’s especially great if you’re a lighthouse lover with multiple lighthouses nearby.

Salem, Massachusetts

A white lighthouse stands on a rocky shoreline, surrounded by blue ocean water and sparse autumn vegetation under a clear sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Salem, Massachusetts is a historic coastal city best known for its 1692 witch trials, but it offers much more than just spooky stories. From museums and maritime history to a thriving downtown filled with shops and restaurants, Salem blends the past with the present. There are even two lighthouses you can see in town!

York, Maine

A white lighthouse with a red-roofed house stands on a grassy hill, surrounded by a white picket fence under a blue sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

York, Maine is a classic seaside town offering sandy beaches, historic landmarks, and family-friendly attractions. From visiting the iconic Nubble Lighthouse to strolling through York Village, it’s a perfect mix of relaxation and coastal charm. It’s a great spot to visit year-round.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

A street intersection with a large Christmas tree, several brick buildings, and people walking. A Jeep is driving through the intersection. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire is a lively coastal city known for its rich history, walkable downtown, and standout food scene. From historic sites and boutique shopping to waterfront dining and cultural events, it offers something for every kind of traveler. It’s a great spot to visit during the holiday season.

Lubec, Maine

A red and white striped lighthouse stands next to a white building with a porch, surrounded by grass and trees under a clear blue sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Lubec, Maine is the easternmost town in the U.S. It’s known for its rugged coastline, quiet charm, and stunning natural beauty. It’s a peaceful getaway with access to lighthouses, coastal hikes, and views you won’t find anywhere else. Be sure to bring your passport to cross the bridge to Campobello Island in New Brunswick, Canada.

Narragansett, Rhode Island

Stone building with towers and an archway under a blue sky, featuring a fountain with a bronze sculpture in the foreground. Cars are parked nearby. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Narragansett, Rhode Island is a beach town known for its beautiful shoreline and surf spots. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand, explore coastal trails, or enjoy fresh seafood, this destination has it all. Be sure to check out the iconic landmark The Towers and Point Judith Lighthouse during your visit!

Falmouth, Massachusetts

A white lighthouse with a black top stands next to a gray building with red roofs, surrounded by greenery and a cloudy sky in the background. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Falmouth, Massachusetts is a Cape Cod favorite known for its sandy beaches, scenic bike paths, and easy access to Martha’s Vineyard. It’s a great spot for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy classic coastal New England. Be sure to visit Nobska Point Lighthouse during your visit.

Kittery, Maine

Rocky shoreline with scattered stones and sparse seaweed, calm water, and a distant treeline under a partly cloudy sky. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Kittery, Maine is a seaside town famous for its outlet shopping, fresh seafood, and historic sites. Just minutes from the New Hampshire border, it offers a perfect mix of coastal beauty and small-town atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to check out historic forts, enjoy the coast, or shop at the Kittery Trading Post, this town has something for everyone.