The Getaway
Perfect Vacationing on the U.S. East Coast

The East Coast of the United States has plenty to offer vacationers searching for picturesque scenery and must-see attractions. There is something for everyone in these locations, making them ideal for a couple's getaway or a family vacation.

One particularly appealing feature of the East Coast is the coastal communities and beaches. It's a unique opportunity to see how seaside towns provide the ideal backdrop for a relaxing vacation or exciting adventure you won't find elsewhere.

Advertisement

01 Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a beach town paradise

Two beach chairs in the sand near the ocean. Photo by Hannah Busing on Unsplash

If you've never been to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, you're in for a real treat! This area is considered one of the top destinations in America for a reason. It's home to pristine beaches along the Atlantic Coast that create a scenic backdrop for your next vacation. Some highlights of the area include multiple amusement parks, many located beachside, and live entertainment during the warm weather months. Of course, one of the biggest attractions is the fresh seafood. It's a must-taste wealth of culinary delights you won't soon forget.

Advertisement

02 Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, for beach activities

Father playing with child on a beach Photo by Amber Faust on Unsplash

Hilton Head Island is the place to be if you want to experience quaint architecture and charming atmosphere. There are fun activities for everyone, including challenging rounds of golf and some of the best fishing in the state of South Carolina. You can explore this 12-mile island on foot or by bicycle. It's the perfect way to spend some downtime and take in the Atlantic Coast. Don't forget to visit Cologne Beach Park and experience its top-rated facilities for vacationers.

Advertisement

03 Old Orchard Beach, Maine, for family fun

A lighthouse in Maine. Photo by Keith Luke on Unsplash

One of the classic Maine getaway destinations is Old Orchard Beach. It's a quaint vacationer's paradise filled with families seeking fun in the sun during the spring and summer months. This area includes an entertainment pier extending into the Atlantic waters and teeming with performers and attractions. During the day, you can enjoy lounging on the beach or shopping in the local stores—many with unique ocean-inspired apparel and trinkets. Don't forget to sign up for one of the many fishing trip excursions perfect for any fishing enthusiast.

Advertisement

04 Newport, Rhode Island, has amazing architecture

Kayaks for rent in various colors placed on the wooden holders somewhere on the beach. Sailing boat is visible in the background. Predrag Vuckovic / Getty Images

If you want to see remnants of the fabulous Gilded Age in person, make Newport your next vacation destination. There are also top cafes and plenty of ocean scenery. Although it's not a typical sunbathing beach, it offers unique opportunities to see the natural beauty of this area and explore the impressive estates of some of history's most affluent and eccentric millionaires, such as the Astor mansion of infamous Ms. Astor. Don't forget to sample some of the East Coast's most amazing cuisine found in the area's seaside restaurants.

Advertisement

05 Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, offers relaxation

House on the Delaware coastline. Photo by Gökhan Kara on Unsplash

Delaware is one of the most underrated travel destination states in the United States. In particular, Rehoboth Beach has plenty to offer vacationers looking for a relaxing spot to unwind. This area has 30 miles of coastline to explore if you want to sightsee. If you prefer to experience the area by sampling the food, you're going to love the assortment of top restaurants and cafes in the area. It a great place to find fresh seafood, or you can catch it yourself. While you're hunting for food, don't forget to take a trip to the beach to swim in the Atlantic Ocean.

Advertisement

06 Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is a picturesque, fun vacation

Nantucket Island, Cape Cod Greg Pease / Getty Images

Cape Cod is the ultimate East Coast vacation destination for several reasons. It offers some of the best food on the eastern seaboard, and it is full of activities for the entire family. There are plenty of must-see sights such as Cape Cod National Seashore and many swimming beaches that offer fun in the sun in a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere. There are also plenty of beachside activities in the area, such as mini-golf and drive-in movies.

Advertisement

07 Virginia Beach, Virginia, for quaint Shops and exploration

Virginia Beach, crowd of people, elevated view Andy Ryan / Getty Images

Virginia Beach offers the picturesque beach getaway you always wanted. There are tons of lovely beaches and boardwalks to walk or bike with your travel companions. You can also visit the Virginia Beach Aquarium, and there are plenty of shops to explore and restaurants to sample. This destination has a friendly hometown feel where visitors feel welcome each time. If you want to unwind and slow down, this is the place to do it.

Advertisement

08 Boston, Massachusetts, for culture and excitement

The historic architecture of the Boston Harbor and Financial District at night. Marcio Silva / Getty Images

If you're looking for fun and excitement and want to explore a large metropolis, you'll want to check out Boston. It's one of the country's largest cities and is home to the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Science, and Faneuil Hall Marketplace. If that's not enough to lure you, consider the bustling nightlife and one of the most beautiful skylines in the world. Whether you like culture or exciting adventures, this city has everything you want.

Advertisement

09 New York City offers everything you can imagine

Times Square street crossing. Photo by Luca Bravo on Unsplash

If you're looking for some excitement on your next vacation to the East Coast, you need to check out New York City. It's called the city that never sleeps for a reason. There are endless things to do and see. Check out the iconic Statue of Liberty or the 9/11 Memorial. There's also the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Empire State Building. Don't forget about the endless options for incredible food from around the world on every street corner and avenue.

Advertisement

10 Washington, D.C., for history buffs

Washington DC city view at a orange sunset, including Washington Monument from Capitol building f11photo / Getty Images

If you love history and museums, this is the place to travel on the East Coast. Everywhere you go in Washington D.C. offers lessons in United States history. There is striking architecture and scenery throughout the city. Enjoy walking through the cherry blossom orchard at the National Mall in the spring and stop to see the Vietnam Memorial along the way. The Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial should also be at the top of your sightseeing list.

Share

Scroll Down

for the Next Article

The Getaway Badge
Sign up to receive insider info and deals that will help you travel smarter.
Advertisement
Advertisement