Atlantic Coast

Almost 30 miles of coastline fringe America's First State. Go "downy ocean" — as the locals like to put it — at these eight favorites, ranging from quiet refuges to beach-boardwalk hotspots.

With 825 miles of picture-perfect beaches to choose from, there’s no shortage of shoreline in Florida. We’ve rounded up some of the Sunshine State’s most beautiful—and most off-the-beaten-path gems.

Beautiful blue waves lap against powdery pale sand along much of the Tar Heel State's 300 miles of shoreline. But North Carolina also boasts coves that once sheltered pirates and remote colonial-settled towns, where herds of wild mustangs still roam. Find the best beaches for every kind of play, right here.

The Pine Tree State has more coastline than California, but with just 70 miles of it being properly beachy, those miles feel all the more special. Maine's southern shores are lined with broad and sandy playgrounds, while the state's craggy coastline to the northeast hides tiny, jewel-like coves. 

Home to America's first seaside resort, this storied shoreline is also home to stunning beaches, historic enclaves, and old-fashioned fun. Meet the 10 towns that will make you a Jersey Shore convert (if you're not one already).

Perched on Bald Head Cliff, the dramatic beauty of Cliff House Maine, which astounds with craggy, almost mystical vistas from the moment you walk into the lobby, is hard to capture in photos alone. Now, the Cape Neddick resort is debuting the Weare Cottage, a private New England-style abode designed by Houston-based Paradigm Design Group, along with the Ledges wing, a collection of 40 exquisite suites. The historic property, which first welcomed guests in 1872, gave us a peek inside the stunning offerings. Scroll down to see more of this cliff-side Shangri-La.

There’s a reason we zeroed in on this gem of a Lowcountry town for our 2018 Idea House: It’s brimming with beauty and year-round activity. While you’re in town for a tour, consider adding these blissful to-dos to your itinerary.