Picture walking on warm sandy beaches. Nothing but the sound of the waves breaks the air. You yearn for serenity, relaxation, and settings that appear fresh. In hidden US beach towns, you find tranquil streets. The neighbors are welcoming. The landscape is beautiful. Such towns allow you to avoid large crowds. You have a chance to discover, unwind, and experience real life along the shore. Let curiosity take you to your own secret heaven.
Hidden US Beach Towns
What Makes Them Different
You might wonder why you should visit hidden US beach towns instead of well-known places. The hidden towns have something different to offer. You enjoy peace and calmness. You get a chance to stroll on the beach without anyone. The locals greet you with a smile. The air is fresh, and the scenery is untainted. A majority of these towns have unique aspects. Some have horses that roam free. Some have peculiar sand dunes or polychromatic houses. You experience the real local culture. Locals fish, cook, and party. You can have local food and learn the history of the town.
Tip: In secret US beach towns, you typically find nature trails, boutique stores, and cozy cafes. These towns help you chill and loosen your vacation.
How to Find Them
You don’t need to look far to find hidden US beach communities. Start by looking at a map. Search for small coastal towns you have never visited. Avoid spots with big hotels or lots of advertising. Ask friends or family members if they know of any secluded beaches. You can also visit travel blogs or internet forums. Many people list their favorite remote beaches. When you plan your trip, consider the optimal time to visit. Some towns look even more peaceful in spring or fall.
You can make your upcoming vacation special by choosing a destination that looks like your own secret retreat. These towns are waiting for you to discover them and visit them in 2025.
Port Townsend, WA
Victorian Charm
You walk into Port Townsend and you feel like you traveled back in time. This is a town on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington. The structures here are largely from the late 1800s. You see big Victorian homes with vibrant trim and high windows. There are old brick stores and tiny cafes along the main street. You will find art galleries, book stores, and bakeries on Water Street. Each building speaks of the past.
Port Townsend preserves its history. You can take a tour of the Jefferson Museum of Art & History. The museum is housed in an original city hall building. You learn about the town’s past as a shipbuilding town and see relics of the early residents. People dress up for Victorian festivals. You can see people dressing up in fancy hats and long skirts for special occasions. The town cherishes its history and shares it with visitors.
Tip: Take a guided walking tour to learn more about the architecture and history of each building.
Peaceful Waterfront
Port Townsend has a peaceful waterfront. You can walk along the marina and watch sailboats go by. The air is crisp with a hint of salt. Seagulls sail overhead. You find benches where you can sit and watch the water. Kayakers and paddleboarders like to wander through the quiet bay.
The beaches are not crowded, even during the summer. You can walk along the beach and gather driftwood or smooth rocks. Fort Worden State Park is nearby. You may hike trails, visit the lighthouse, or have a picnic overlooking the ocean. The park provides you with panoramic views of the ocean and distant mountains.
If you love wildlife, please bring your binoculars. You might catch sight of seals, otters, or even bald eagles. The waterfront at Port Townsend gives you room to breathe and absorb nature. The majority of people declare this town to be a secret retreat.
Grayton Beach, FL
Rare Dune Lakes
You find something unique at Grayton Beach. The location has coastal dune lakes. These lakes are found close to the Gulf of Mexico. There are hardly any places on the planet with them. The lakes merge with the seawater at times. The mixture creates a special setting for animals and plants. You notice turtles, fish, and numerous birds. The lakes change according to the seasons. Sometimes the water level rises. Other times, it decreases. You are able to walk along the walkways and view the lakes up close. Take a camera to capture the loveliness. Kayaking and paddleboarding give you a unique view of the water. Local guides lead tours if you want to know more.
Did you know? Coastal dune lakes help shield the land from storming. They also filter the water for animals.
Sugar-White Sands
Grayton Beach is known to have the softest sand in Florida. Sand looks white and is cool to walk on. You can walk miles along the beach. The beach is quiet even in the summer season. All you can hear are waves and see clear blue water. Many people come to this spot to swim and unwind. You can create sandcastles or just collect seashells. Sunset looks great from the beach. Local artists prefer painting the landscape.
You can visit Grayton Beach State Park for easy beach access.
Picnic sites and sunshade areas make it easy to spend the day outside.
Some areas are guarded by lifeguards, so you’ll be free to swim.
Grayton Beach gives you a peaceful place to be able to join nature. You know why most people call it a secret gem.
For a complete overview, explore our USA travel guide.
Ocracoke, NC
Island Seclusion
You travel to Ocracoke, NC, by ferry. The island lies off the coast of North Carolina. There are no mainland bridges. This creates a peaceful and far-away atmosphere from bustle cities. You see small cottages and peaceful streets. The pace of life slows down. You bike or walk everywhere. Autos are not common, so the air is clean and nights stay peaceful.
Ocracoke Village sits at the island’s southern tip. You have local shops, seafood eateries, and friendly faces. People greet you as you pass by. The island’s history spans far back. Pirates would ride along waters. You have the chance to see the Ocracoke Lighthouse, which has been leading ships since 1823. Beaches stretch on for miles. You generally have a spot all to yourself.
Tip: Visit in spring or autumn for pleasant weather and smaller crowds. You have the greatest chance to see the island’s peaceful beauty.
Wild Ponies
Ocracoke is famous for its feral ponies. They have lived there for hundreds of years. Some believe shipwrecks brought their ancestors there. You can see the ponies in a fenced enclosure off the highway. Rangers take care of them and keep them safe. The ponies seem healthy and robust. Their coats shine in the sun.
You can view the ponies from a viewing platform. Bring binoculars for a closer look. The ponies graze on the grass and move in small groups. They give the island a touch of magic. You feel as if you have entered a fairy tale.
Bring a camera to click some photos of the ponies.
Keep at a distance and avoid feeding them.
Ocracoke offers you a special blend of remoteness and nature. You see why the majority of tourists consider it one of the best-kept secrets among beach towns.
Bandon, OR
Rugged Coast
You find Bandon along the southern Oregon shore. The beach here looks untamed and breathtaking. There are high sea stacks rising out of the ocean. Waves crash against the rocks. You see tide pools with starfish and crabs. The wind shapes the sand dunes and cliffs. It is possible to walk on the beach and notice sea-washed driftwood. Photographers visit Bandon to photograph its sunsets and stormy weather. You might notice fog rolling up from the Pacific Ocean. The air is cool and clean.
Tip: Wear a jacket, even during summer. The weather changes quickly near the water.
You can stop by Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint. The viewpoint gives you a panoramic view of the coastline. The locals have a myth that Face Rock looks like a woman looking up towards the sky. You may also proceed to Bullards Beach State Park. There, you can find long sandy beaches and an old lighthouse.
Small-Town Feel
Bandon is a friendly, small-town atmosphere. You walk along Old Town and see local shops and art galleries. People greet you. Several stores feature handmade products and fresh seafood. You have access to renowned cranberry treats because Bandon picks a lot of cranberries. The town celebrates holidays and farmers’ markets year-round.
Visit the Bandon Historical Society Museum to learn about the town’s history.
Go to the harbor and watch the fishing boats come in and out.
Eat lunch at a wharfside restaurant.
You are welcomed in Bandon. The pace of life is leisurely. You can relax and enjoy the beauty of one of the coast’s best-kept secrets.
Assateague Island, MD/VA
Wild Horses
You step out onto Assateague Island and see wild horses grazing near the dunes. The horses have inhabited the island for hundreds of years. Shipwrecks, people believe, brought their forebears to the island. The horses are unconfined on the island. You can watch them from a distance as they make their way through marshes and along the beach. Rangers protect the horses and warn visitors how to keep their distance from them.
You can observe a herd of horses grazing near a pond or riding along the beach. Their coats shine in the sun. All of the horses seem healthy and strong. You learn that these horses have managed to thrive in the salty environment and thorny grasses. The wild horses contribute to what makes Assateague Island unique. They remind you that nature can thrive with minimal help from humans.
Tip: Keep at least 40 feet away from the horses at all times. Feeding or petting them may harm you as well as the horses.
Untouched Beaches
Assateague Island boasts the East Coast’s most natural beaches. You’ve miles of sandy beach without boardwalks or hotels. The beaches are empty, even in summer. You hike for hours and only see a handful of people on the beach. The sand feels soft between your toes. You hear waves and sea birds.
You can swim, fish, or fly a kite. Some enjoy looking for shells or watching crabs scurry across the sand. Trails on the island let you go through dunes and marshes. You could see deer, foxes, or a variety of birds. The open, clean area lets you relax and enjoy nature’s beauty.
Bring sunscreen and water. There are few stores on the island.
Pull in at the Assateague Island National Seashore Visitor Center to learn more.
Assateague Island lets you sample the coast’s wild side. You know why other visitors list it as one of the best US beach towns that are off the beaten track but ideal for nature lovers.
Pawleys Island, SC
Easygoing Atmosphere
You find Pawleys Island in South Carolina. The town is situated between the Atlantic Ocean and a tranquil salt marsh. Residents here live life at a slow pace. You see old beach homes with large porches. Several of them have rocking chairs. Residents wave at you as you walk by. You hear smiles and friendly greetings. The town is quiet. You do not see big hotels or busy roads. Most people who come to the town are here to unwind and enjoy simple things.
You can ride your bike down the highway. You ride through live oak trees hung with Spanish moss. You catch a whiff of fresh, salt air. You can fish from the pier or crab from the marsh. Join them and see how they catch their own supper. Locally owned boutiques carry locally produced hammocks. These hammocks started here over a century ago. Give one a try and experience the gentle swing.
Tip: Stop by the Pawleys Island Historic District. You notice houses from as far back as the 1700s. Every house has a story to tell about the island’s history.
Quiet Shores
Pawleys Island boasts wide, sandy beaches. Miles of beach and few people are seen. The sand is gentle between your toes. Gulls are screaming, and you hear the waves. It’s a family destination year after year. They build sandcastles and search for shells. You swim in the gentle surf or sit and watch dolphins frolicking in the distance.
You notice no boardwalks or loud music. The beach is natural and untainted. You notice dunes with sea oats. They are sheltering for the shoreline. You may bring a picnic and remain for the day close to the water. Sunsets look beautiful from the beach. The sky turns pink and orange as the sun sets.
Pawleys Island gives you an actual breakaway. You enjoy peace, nature, and a relaxed pace. Most tourists say this is among the top places to relax on the East Coast.
Second Beach, WA
Secluded Trails
You find Second Beach on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington. The hike starts with a forest trail. You walk along under tall trees. Ferns cover the ground. Sunlight filters through the branches. The trail is peaceful and quiet. You listen to birds singing and leaves rustling. The trail itself is about three-quarters of a mile long. You notice moss-covered logs and small streams along it.
They all describe the hike as an adventure. You get to walk on roots and rocks. The smell is crisp and earthy. You can take your time and enjoy the views. You get to a stairway from the path. You go down and see out onto the beach in front of you. The walk keeps the crowds away. You typically have only a few other tourists here.
Tip: Walk in rugged footwear. The trail should be muddy after rain.
Driftwood Views
Second Beach enjoys an open and natural beach front. You see large pieces of driftwood on the sand. Some of the logs appear to be sculptures. You may climb upon them or sit and watch the waves. The driftwood comes from a nearby forest. Storms and tides deposit it on land. The logs create a captivating landscape.
You can walk along the beach and investigate tide pools. Crabs, sea anemones, and starfish live among the rocks. You have better views of them at low tide. The beach is almost a mile long. Sea stacks stick out from the sea. These rock spires give the setting drama.
Bring a camera to photograph. Stay until it gets dark if you can. The sky turns orange and pink over the ocean.
Second Beach gives you a peaceful place to enjoy nature. You see the power of the ocean and the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Grand Marais, MI
Lake Superior
You find Grand Marais along the south shore of Lake Superior. The town lies off of the world’s largest freshwater lake. When you are on the beach, you gaze out across blue water as far as you can see. The air is clean and cold. You hear the sound of waves rolling onto the beach. Grand Marais is frequented by numerous people to enjoy the beauty of Lake Superior. During summer, you can swim in the cool water. You can also kayak or paddleboard. The lake is a suitable spot for fishing. You can catch trout or salmon if you cast from the pier.
Tip: Bring a jacket, even in summer. Lake Superior chills the air, especially in the morning and evening.
You can walk around the harbor and watch boats coming and going. The sunsets on the lake are lovely. The colors in the sky shift to orange and pink as the sun sets. Local painters enjoy painting such vistas. You can visit small galleries in town that showcase their paintings.
Sand Dunes
Grand Marais is famous for sand dunes. You can view the dunes just outside the town at Grand Sable Dunes. The dunes rise high above the lake. You can hike up sandy trails and reach the top. When you peer over, you have a wide view of Lake Superior and the woods below. The sand is cushy between your toes. You can spot wildflowers erupting here and there among the grasses.
Bring water and hike in durable shoes.
Walk on established paths to help preserve the plants and dunes.
There is a Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore nearby, as well. This park features colorful cliffs, waterfalls, and other dunes to explore. Grand Marais offers a chance to see unorthodox landscapes and enjoy some outdoor activity. Most travelers say this town is tranquil and quirky.
Block Island, RI
Cliffside Walks
You step out onto Block Island and see sheer bluffs rising above the Atlantic Ocean. The Mohegan Bluffs stand over 150 feet tall. You can walk along the top and look out over the water. The view stretches on for miles. The air is fresh and cool. You can hear the pounding of the waves below.
You come across a wooden staircase down to the beach. The steps appear steep, but the walk is worth it with a serene spot beside the sea. You are able to see the rocky coastline and search for shells. The bluffs change color as the sun moves across the sky. Tourists flock from all over to capture the image.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes while walking along cliffs. The paths appear uneven in places.
You can also hike the Greenway Trails. These trails pass through fields and at the edge of the cliffs. You can spot wildflowers or hear birds overhead. The trails give you a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the island on your own terms.
Peaceful Beaches
Block Island boasts New England’s most serene beaches. Crescent Beach, two miles in length, is one you can visit. The sand feels good between your toes. The water looks blue and clear. You can swim, sunbathe, or build sandcastles. The beach is not crowded, even in summer.
You may prefer Mansion Beach for its soft waves. The location has a great feel to it for families. You can pack a picnic lunch and have a day at the water’s edge. Many like to comb the beach for sea glass.
Pack sunscreen and water with you for your beach day.
Be aware of seals swimming among the rocks.
Block Island offers you an untroubled refuge. You have space to relax and enjoy nature. Some visitors write that this island must be on any list of unique seaside retreats.
Matlacha, FL
Colorful Community
You come into Matlacha and see bright colors everywhere. Houses and shops light up with pink, blue, yellow, and green colors. Murals on walls and signs that artists have created cover the landscape. You’ve got art galleries on almost every block. Paintings, jewelry, and pottery are sold by local artists. You can watch them at work and ask them about their artwork.
Matlacha residents love to share their culture. You hear live music emanating from small cafes. There are guitarists and singers singing songs that paint a picture of the sea. You can attend a painting session or workshop. There are food, music, and art exhibitions during festivals. The residents greet you with big smiles. They tell you about the history of the town and how it has become a artists’ community.
Tip: Bring your sketchbook or camera along. You will want to photograph the colorful scenes and imagination.
Matlacha stores have specialty gift items. You view seashell artwork, dyes shirts, and brightly colored hats. Several stores stand on stilts over the water. You can cross wooden piers and watch fish swim below.
Calm Waters
Matlacha is sandwiched between mainland Florida and Pine Island. The water is still and clear here. You see kayaks and paddleboards gliding smoothly on the bay. The gentle waves are a good chance for beginners to try out water sports. You can hire a kayak and paddle through the mangroves. Herons and pelicans sit in the trees. Dolphins swim alongside occasionally.
Fishing is a big part of Matlacha life. You can fish off the pier, or go along with a local guide in a boat tour. The waters are inhabited by many different species of fish, such as snook and redfish. You can spot manatees slowly moving along the beach.
Bring sunscreen and a hat for your day on the water.
Take care around wildlife as you paddle or fish.
Matlacha gives you a peaceful place to appreciate nature and art. You find out why so many tourists call it a special place on the Florida coast.
Port Aransas, TX
Island Life
You come to Port Aransas and feel the relaxed tempo right away. This charming town is on Mustang Island just off the Texas coast. You see golf carts ride down the streets. People greet you as you pass by. The wind has a salty, fresh smell. You hear the sound of waves and gulls. Port Aransas is usually known as “Port A” by most. You can find sandy shores that stretch on for miles. You can stroll on the beach and see sunrise. Sand feels soft under your feet.
You can find many ways to optimize island life. You can rent a bike or golf cart to ride around town. There are shops and restaurants on the main street. You have local cafes with fresh seafood. Shrimp, fish, and oysters come directly from the Gulf by air. You may either fish off the pier or go for a boat tour. Families visit Port Aransas for summer holidays. It is a safe and pleasant place. You see children playing on the sand and flying kites.
Tip: Visit in spring or fall for comfortable weather and fewer tourists. You have more space to unwind on the beach.
Birdwatching
Port Aransas is a first-class birding spot. You see over 300 species of birds. The town lies on a high migration route. Thousands of birds pass through both spring and autumn to roost. You can visit the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center. It’s a boardwalk over pond and marsh. You see egrets, herons, and even the occasional alligator. Bring binoculars for closer inspection.
You can also walk along the trails in the Port Aransas Nature Preserve. The preserve is marked to help you identify birds. Early morning is when you should go. You hear birds singing and observe them foraging. A lot of visitors take guided bird walks. Local guides provide advice and help you spot uncommon birds.
Bring a notebook to record birds that you see.
Walk while wearing a hat and sunscreen.
Port Aransas gives you a chance to enjoy the outdoors and catch a glimpse of life on the coast. Almost all travelers report that this town must be on any list of offbeat beach getaways.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
White Sand
You walk onto Carmel Beach and gaze out at white, soft sand on the Pacific Ocean. The sand is chilly between your toes. You hear breaking waves and breathe salt water. Folks travel from far and wide to visit this beach. You can walk on the beach and watch surfers ride the waves. Dogs play and run on the beach. You find tide pools when you head down to low tide. Little crabs and sea stars find refuge in the rocks.
Tip: Take a picnic lunch and dine with the ocean view. The early morning is the most serene by the beach.
You can observe dolphins playing in the distance. The sunsets are lovely here. The sunset behind the horizon paints the sky in shades of pink and orange. Artists crowd here to capture these images. You can follow their steps or simply sit back and watch the color change.
Storybook Town
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a fairy-tale town. You gaze at cottages with steep-sloping roofs and gardens blanketed with flowers. The streets wind and curve. Bakeries and shops populate the town square. You may indulge in a freshly baked pastry or buy handmade mementos. The residents parade their works in tiny galleries.
You walk along Ocean Avenue and find quaint cafes there. Smiles welcome you from individuals. There are no streetlights or mailboxes within town. It helps to keep the serene atmosphere and charm going. You may visit the historic Carmel Mission. The mission talks of early California.
Walk around town. Each corner offers something new.
Visit in spring for flowers in bloom and good weather.
Carmel-by-the-Sea gives you a fairytale experience. You can see why so many tourists add it to their bucket list of special destinations.
Chatham, MA
Lighthouse Beach
You can find Lighthouse Beach on the outskirts of Chatham, MA. The beach stretches for miles along the Atlantic Ocean. You see the famous Chatham Lighthouse standing over the dunes. The lighthouse has been directing ships since 1808. You can walk up and take photos of the white tower. The beach scenery offers open water and shifting sandbars. You might spot seals swaying near the shore. The sand feels soft on your feet. You will hear the waves and birds in the air.
Some tourists appreciate the natural scenery of Lighthouse Beach. You can walk on the beach and notice fishing boats far away. The color of water changes depending on the color of the sky. Sometimes you see deep blue, sometimes light green. Lifeguards monitor the main swimming area in summer. You are safe as you swim or wade in shallow water.
Tip: Visit in the morning for the quietest experience. You get to see the sunrise over the water and have the beach to yourself before other people arrive.
Cape Cod Quiet
Chatham offers you a quiet aspect of Cape Cod. The town is quiet, even in the busiest summer months. You walk down Main Street and see tiny stores, bakeries, and ice cream shops. Individuals greet you with a smile. The pace of life here is slow. You can rent a bicycle and ride on quiet roads with hydrangeas and old homes.
You find many places to relax. Sit on a bench overlooking the harbor and watch fishing boats tie up. Visit the Chatham Fish Pier and watch fishermen bringing in their catch. Eat fresh seafood at local restaurants. The air smells of salt and freshness. You hear the distant blast of the lighthouse horn.
Chatham gives you that classic Cape Cod atmosphere. You get spacious beaches, nice people, and peace. Many travelers say that this town is on any list of off-beat shore escapes.
South Manitou Island, MI
Pristine Lake
You board the ferry from Leland, Michigan, to South Manitou Island. Lake Michigan surrounds the island with clean, blue water. The beach looks unspoiled. You see soft sand and smooth rock. The water is refreshing and cool. People generally remark that the lake here is cleaner than any beach. You can swim in the shallow areas near the dock. The water is peaceful on sunny days. You can see fish swimming off shore. The beach stretches for miles. You have plenty of space to sit or play.
Tip: Take a snorkel along if you would like to see underwater rocks and small fish. The water is still clear, so you have good visibility.
You can walk on the beach and collect driftwood or unique rocks. The island lacks massive hotels and crowded roads. All you can hear are waves and birds. The peaceful atmosphere gives you an opportunity to enjoy nature. The majority of visitors refer to this as one of the best places to witness Lake Michigan’s splendor.
Hiking Trails
South Manitou Island has many hiking trails. You can choose short walks or day-hikes. The trails follow through forests, dunes, and open fields. You get to see the tall trees and wildflowers in spring and summer. Some of the trails lead you to old farm ruins. You come to learn about the people who inhabited here previously. The most popular trail leads you to the South Manitou Island Lighthouse. You get to climb up to the tower for a sweeping view of the lake and island.
Bring good hiking shoes. Some paths consist of sand or roots.
Bring water and snacks. The island has very few services.
You can also hike to the Valley of the Giants. You see some of Michigan’s biggest cedar trees here. The trees are high and look old. The hiking is serene and chilly under cover. South Manitou Island provides a chance to explore untamed lands and learn about nature. It is in most tourists’ list of America’s best-kept secret beach towns for its quiet trails and unclosed lake shorelines.
Corolla, NC
Outer Banks
You find Corolla at the northern tip of North Carolina’s Outer Banks. This area hugs the Atlantic Ocean and contains wide, remote beaches. You see gentle surf and soft sand. The beaches are peaceful here, even in the summer. Not many people are aware of Corolla, so you typically have the area to yourself. You can stroll for miles and watch the dawn break over the water. It has a fresh, salty scent. All you can hear is the sound of the sea and seagulls.
Corolla is small-town. You see quaint stores and home-town restaurants. People smile and greet you. You are able to rent a bike and ride on country roads. The town boasts a lighthouse known as the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. You can climb to the top and see ocean and sound views. The area also has nature walks and parks. You are able to see birds, turtles, and deer.
Tip: Visit Corolla in late spring or early fall. The climate is still warm, but the crowds are small. You have the best chance of viewing the peaceful beaches without any crowds.
Wild Horses
Corolla has wild horses. The horses can roam and graze on the dunes and beaches. People call them the Corolla wild horses. They were descendants of Spanish ships many centuries ago. You might catch sight of a string of horses grazing along the water or feeding on sea grass. The horses look healthy and gorgeous. Their manes are blowing in the wind.
You can take a guided tour to see the wild horses safely. Guides know where the horses are and how to keep them safe. Always keep a minimum of 50 feet between you and the horses. Never feed or touch them. The wild horses provide Corolla with its charm. You feel like you have entered a book in the past.
You reach Corolla by road. Drive north from Kitty Hawk via Highway 12. The highway terminates in Corolla so that you are removed from overpopulated cities. Most tourists place Corolla on the list of best-kept US beach secrets because of its peaceful beauty and wild horses.
You now have some of the best secret US beach towns. Every town provides you with a chance to enjoy peace, nature, and real local life. You can experiment with quiet beaches and friendly locals. Experiment by visiting these towns before they are crowded. Do you have a secret beach? Share or ask questions in the comments. Start planning your 2025 trip today!
