Go Coastal in 2018: Top seaside getaways for the coming year
Feb 19, 2018 10:38AM ● By Camille Autin
For those looking for a dynamic vacation encompassing rich cultural experiences, unique local dining and a bit of sun, sand and adventure, set your sites on these superior seaside hotspots for a memorable maritime escape.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Known as one of New England’s finest retreats, Bar Harbor exemplifies the best of Maine's remarkable woodlands, coastal charm and casual seafood-shack ambiance. Bed and breakfasts, cafes and old world taverns line the streets of the downtown area, while nearby Acadia National Park draws millions of travelers each year to hike and bike the abundant trails and stone bridges. Whale watching and lighthouse touring are among popular activities, and visitors should enjoy a sunrise cup of coffee as the seagulls stir and the lobstermen head out to sea. It is typically after Memorial Day when travelers begin flocking to this old-fashioned harbor town, and after a few months of dreamy summer weather, the turn into fall magnifies the natural beauty of Bar Harbor with the incredible foliage.
Yachats, Oregon (Pronounced YAH-hots)
Get out to this named ‘gem of the Oregon coast’ where raging pacific waters thunder against rocky shores and lush forest coastline. Enjoy Yachats’ natural wonders like the ever-changing tide pools and basalt beaches, and explore the hiking trails that lead out directly from town.
Just a few miles south of town is Cape Perpetua, home to the Devil’s Churn and many beautiful tide pools to explore at low tide. They’re serious about their seafood, and there’s no shortage of mom-and-pop shops to enjoy the daily catch. Sit down with a hot order of fish and chips and a local craft brew while you watch the sunset on the Pacific Ocean.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
Step back in time to visit Nags Head in North Carolina’s Outer Banks. As travelers enjoy the sprawling beaches and laid-back vibe, it’s the charming small town feel, renowned restaurants and unique adventure activities that set Nags Head apart. There is something for every traveler here; the beach bum, the surfer dude, the beachcomber and the thrill-seeker all have a place in Nags Head. This vacation to-do list begins beneath the lapping waves and reaches high into the starlit sky. Dive the shipwrecks, indulge in the hunt for town’s best she-crab soup, go surfing, visit the Wright Brothers memorial, or visit Jockey’s Ridge, the largest natural sand dune system on the east coast, and get your toes sandy with a hang-gliding lesson. Drive to nearby Corolla to watch the wild horses roaming free on the dunes.
Carmel by the Sea, California
The Monterey Peninsula is home to the stunning beach town of Carmel. You won’t see any chain restaurants or Starbucks here, and you can walk to every eatery, wine shop and bakery nearby. Watch the waves of Carmel Bay lap into shore while you enjoy a morning stroll, or a memorable drive down the iconic Hwy 1 to Big Sur.
With many attractions such as Point Lobos State Park, and Pebble Beach nearby, you won’t run out of reasons to get outside and enjoy the fresh sea air and impeccable weather.
