Key West, Florida
Key West is colorful, quirky, and endlessly sunny. Retirees who love creativity and island living fit right in here. The waters are turquoise and unforgettable, and the locals are always friendly. It is a bit more busy and expensive than some of these other places, though.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Few seaside towns rival the beauty of Cannon Beach… it’s a photographer’s dream. It was even named one of the most beautiful places in the world by National Geographic in 2013! Visit it for yourself and be awed by the scenery. It does get a little crowded though.
Mendocino, California
Mendocino sits high on the cliffs of Northern California. It’s a place that feels peaceful but slightly wild at the same time. The little downtown is full of fabulous small shops, art studios, and ocean views in every direction. Fog drifts in most mornings, giving everything a dreamlike feel. If you love dramatic scenery, quiet walks, and small-town friendliness, Mendocino might be your kind of seaside escape.
Cape Charles, Virginia
Cape Charles feels like a hidden coastal treasure. This small Chesapeake Bay town has colorful cottages, a beautiful beach, and a relaxed, friendly vibe. There’s plenty for retirees to do, not least sitting back and watching the sun set over the water - a stunning scene photographers line up to get good pictures of. Oh, and don’t forget the local microbrewery either!
Port Townsend, Washington
This place is nicknamed “the city of dreams” and it’s easy to see why. With its Victorian architecture and waterfront views, Port Townsend is a gem that holidaymakers flock to every year. The people there are super friendly and there's endless things to do. Retirees who come from landlocked area especially enjoy getting to see whales up close in their natural habitat.
La Jolla, California
La Jolla is the archetypical California beach, the sort of place you picture when you hear the name "California". It’s sandy, sunny and full of life. Don’t just go for the sands, though, beautiful as they are. The town also offers golf, art galleries, and upscale boutiques where you can splash your cash.
Carmel-By-The-Sea, California
This charming coastal village looks like it was pulled straight from a storybook. With its white-sand beaches, art galleries, and cozy cottages, Carmel is a favorite for retirees who love beauty and enjoy walking rather than taking the car. It’s especially great for wildlife lovers, as aquariums and nature reserves are nearby.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor combines ocean views with access to Acadia National Park - ideal for retirees who love nature and adventure. The downtown is also full of cafes and art galleries for tourists to enjoy. In summer, the harbor fills with sailboats, while in fall, the foliage is breathtaking.
Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May, the oldest seaside resort in America, is packed with that Victorian charm that so many are drawn to. Retirees love strolling the town’s picturesque streets, soaking in sunsets at the beach, and grabbing fresh seafood downtown. The vibe is relaxed yet lively in summer, with plenty of fun cultural festivals.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket is classic New England, with beautiful beaches that are great for photographing. Retirees here enjoy quiet island living where they can find great dining and a tight-knit community vibe. It does have downsides, though – it’s quite expensive and it can get crowded.
Kitty Hawk, North Carolina
Kitty Hawk is famous for the Wright brothers’ first flight… the town has named lots of places after that world-changing event… but there are plenty of other reasons to visit. It’s a beautiful seaside town with many recreation opportunities and friendly locals.
Sanibel Island, Florida
If seashells, sunshine, and serenity appeal to you, Sanibel Island delivers. It’s a retiree favorite for its peaceful beaches, easy biking trails, and wildlife preserves. The wildlife preserves attract a ton of animal lovers, in fact, and they cover over half the island.
St. Michaels, Maryland
This Chesapeake Bay town blends maritime history with coastal charm. People come here from all over for its walkable streets lined with cute shops, seafood restaurants, and harbor views. It’s a sailing town at heart, so you’ll see boats gliding by on calm waters all day.
Anna Maria Island, Florida
Anna Maria Island is a place with bright sunny beaches and a rich history, and it’s hungry for tourists. Anyone who visits will be welcomed in like they’re an old friend, and they’ll also find no shortage of fun things to do, such as taking dolphin tours and exploring the museums.
Jamestown, Rhode Island
Tucked between Narragansett Bay and Newport, Jamestown is peaceful and picturesque. Those seeking adventure (but not too much adventure) love its scenic trails and the stunning lighthouses that you can’t see anywhere else. It’s less crowded than nearby Newport, too.
Morro Bay, California
Morro Bay is known for its iconic rock and peaceful harbor views. Retirees love watching sea otters play, kayaking along the estuary, and exploring its laid-back downtown. Fun fact: this is the setting for the popular Pixar animated feature Finding Dory.
Stonington, Maine
Perched on Deer Isle, Stonington offers rugged coastal beauty and a sense of timelessness. Retirees enjoy the Opera House, working harbor, and unbeatable lobster dishes. The town’s dramatic scenery and artistic spirit put it on the map.
Beaufort, South Carolina
If you want Southern hospitality, you should definitely head to Beaufort. That’s not all it has to offer, though – it’s great for watersports, boating, and fishing. The food is also considered top-notch, with shrimp being a particular favorite.
Laguna Beach, California
Laguna Beach is – like the rest of California - artsy, beachy, and endlessly beautiful. Retirees enjoy oceanfront parks, art galleries, and mild weather year-round. Don’t forget to take time out to relax and enjoy a stunning sunset.
Edgartown, Massachusetts
Come for the yachts and stay for the, well, for the everything else! People here love the harbor views, historic homes, and quiet charm of Edgartown. The beaches are just minutes away, and the small-town community is warm and welcoming.
Seabrook, Washington
Seabrook is a newer coastal community, but that doesn’t mean it’s not got charm. Seaside-loving retirees love the sense of safety and friendliness, along with its walkable layout. It’s a picture-perfect mix of modern convenience and classic seaside vibes.
Rockport, Massachusetts
Rockport is a quintessential New England harbor town - colorful boats, rocky shores, and a tight-knit community. If you like taking pictures, you should definitely bring a camera with you. But don’t forget to take time out from photography to try the lobster.
Monterey, California
Monterey is famous for its bay views and marine life – it’s home to the internationally renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. There’s always something to see here, from sea otters to sailboats, but do be aware that lots of other people come to see those things too.
Beaufort, North Carolina
Not to be confused with the other Beaufort in South Carolina. Beaufort is a lovely place to visit or even settle down, as it has everything the peace-seeking retiree could want. It’s rich in history and is even linked to the pirate Blackbeard.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Just outside Savannah, Tybee Island offers laid-back beach living with Southern charm. You can fish off the pier, bike along the coast, check out the lighthouses, or just relax with your toes in the sand. Just watch out for the famous Tybee bomb.
Bandon, Oregon
Bandon was named one of the "Coolest Small Towns in America" by BudgetTravel back in 2010, and that still holds up. It’s a hotspot for tourism in Oregon, with people dropping by for surfing, mountain biking, and even storm chasing.
Saugatuck, Michigan
Nestled on Lake Michigan’s eastern shore, Saugatuck is an artist’s haven with endless scenery to paint and draw. Folks who come here enjoy the creative energy, local galleries, and gorgeous sunsets over the dunes. The food is pretty good, as well!
Bellingham, Washington
Bellingham is one of those provides stunning scenery thanks to its volcano, Mount Baker. On clear days, Mount Baker glows pink at sunset, and kayakers drift through Bellingham Bay. It makes for a beautiful snapshot you’ll never forget.
Chatham, Massachusetts
The beaches in Chatham are pristine, and the vibe is friendly but peaceful. You can stroll the shore, enjoy a lobster roll, or just watch the tides roll in. Don’t forget to check out the Chatham Light, a famous lighthouse in the area.
Fairhope, Alabama
Sweet home, Alabama. Fairhope offers small-town charm along with stunning views. Retirees are drawn to its artsy vibe, mild winters, and tree-lined streets. The sunsets over the bay are incredible, and there’s always a festival, farmers market, or friendly face to greet you.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Rehoboth Beach is one of the East Coast’s most welcoming beach towns, offering plenty of community events year-round. The beaches are beautiful, and the tax-free shopping doesn’t hurt either. Even former US President Joe Biden has a summer home here.
Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic is so pretty that it’s almost, well, mystic. You can stroll the docks, visit the aquarium, or just sip coffee by the water. It’s a calm, picturesque place that feels like a classic New England postcard - only much better in person.
Gig Harbor, Washington
The city known as “the Maritime city” is a beautiful place with a lot to recommend it. The locals are friendly and the community is close-knit… ideal if you’re looking to move there. You can explore the many great restaurants or just watch the boats go past.
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
There’s always a festival or art walk in Bay St. Louis, yet the pace stays mellow. You can fish in the morning and listen to live jazz by evening. It’s laid-back, friendly, and those who come here never want to leave.
Southport, North Carolina
Southport is a quiet harbor town that feels like a movie set - because it often is. The iconic horror film I Know What You Did Last Summer was filmed here, but don’t worry, the town is super safe and friendly! It’s also quiet, serene and beautiful.
York, Maine
Not to be confused with the historical York in Britain, York is one of those towns that’s easy to fall into a rhythm with. Mornings might start with a walk to Nubble Lighthouse and end with a lobster roll by the shore. There’s just enough going on to keep things interesting, but it never feels busy. It’s the kind of place that quietly grows on you.
Port Aransas, Texas
Port Aransas brings small-town friendliness to the Texas coast. And there’s so much stuff to do! You can partake in water sports, visit the restaurants, or take a boat out to see if you can spot any dolphins. Nature lovers will be in paradise.
Cape Elizabeth, Maine
Cape Elizabeth is all about drama - rocky cliffs, windswept beaches, and the iconic Portland Head Light. It’s the kind of place that keeps you active but grounded, and retirees with an adventurous streak love it to pieces.
Kittery Point, Maine
Kittery Point is a fascinating, beautiful place with a rich history. You can check out the museums while you’re there, or visit the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, which is an absolute haven for birdwatchers.
Ogunquit, Maine
Ogunquit’s name means “beautiful place by the sea,” and it absolutely delivers. It’s a walkable, artsy town that delivers some of the best sunsets known to man. It’s also got a strong LGBT community, so it’s great to visit if you’re part of that.
Avalon, New Jersey
Summers in Avalon are lively but never rowdy, and the rest of the year brings calm ocean walks and friendly waves from locals. It’s seven miles of sand and serenity, ideal for people who like their beach towns without too many crowds.
Longboat Key, Florida
Maybe you’re sick of Florida? Well, don’t leave it without visiting Longboat Key first, some say it gives off entirely different vibes to your standard Florida town. The beaches are beautiful, and there’s plenty of luxurious hotels to stay at if you have money to spare.
Seaside, Oregon
A place called Seaside that boasts, of course, a seaside! There’s a vintage boardwalk, saltwater taffy shops, and the endless roar of the ocean just steps away. Locals gather for beach bonfires and kite festivals, and even stormy days feel cozy here.
Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara is very popular, so expect a lot of people here, but you should still absolutely go. It boats panish-style architecture, mountain backdrops, and a constant sea breeze that refreshes and delights. Surfers in particular love the place, and others enjoy watching them surf.
Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Like shrimp? Then you’ll love Ocean Springs, Mississippi. But it has more than just delicious seafood to offer. It’s a soulful, artistic place with endless things to do: museums, festivals, shops, restaurants. Even Hurricane Katrina, when it unleashed terror on the town back in 2005, couldn’t dampen its spirits for good.
Coronado, California
Coronado feels like a little world of its own. You can bike everywhere, stroll along perfect beaches, and still pop into San Diego for city energy when you want it. The old Hotel del Coronado gives it a storybook feel, but life here is simple and everybody’s having fun. Plenty of people visit the town just for a holiday and love it so much they decide to put down roots.
Amelia Island, Florida
Florida is popular for good reason. Another stunning seaside destination it offers is Amelia Island, which boasts sandy beaches and a delicious fresh smell in the air. If you like seafood it’s a great place to visit, and if you like biking as well than you’re set. Many people have come here for a holiday only to make plans to move in later on.
Sausalito, California
Sausalito sits right across the water from San Francisco, but it couldn’t feel more relaxed. Boats drift in the bay, people sip coffee by the docks, and the view of the city never gets old. It’s artsy without being pretentious, and on foggy mornings, it feels like you’re living inside a postcard. If you've got a moment, why not stop by one of the most famous attractions in the place, the Houseboats?
Kennebunkport, Maine
Kennebunkport has that small-town coastal vibe that never goes out of style. The harbor’s lined with boats, the seafood’s fresh, and people will always look happy to see you. Summer brings tourists, sure, but not so many as to make the place uncomfortable. Winters are slower, cozy, and somehow even prettier.
Rockport, Massachusetts
Rockport feels like stepping into a painting - literally, since artists have flocked here for decades. The little red fishing shack on the harbor (Motif No. 1) is one of the most painted buildings in America, and seeing it in person is a fantastic experience. The rest of the town is beautiful too, and the locals will welcome you in.
