25 Best East Coast Weekend Getaways – 2024
Best East Coast Weekend Getaways. Due to its abundance of culture, history, and customs, the East Coast of the United States is a top choice for vacationers of all stripes. To experience the stunning Atlantic Ocean, summer travelers swarm to beaches such as Myrtle Beach, Virginia Beach, Miami Beach, and all points in between.
Perfect island getaways like Hilton Head and Martha’s Vineyard are well-liked by both families and couples. New England’s fishing culture, New York City’s glittering glamour, and Charlottesville’s southern charm are all there.
Best East Coast Weekend Getaways
1. Tybee Island
Tybee Island is a small barrier island with five miles of breathtaking Atlantic coastline and immaculate beaches perfect for sunbathing and surfing, located about 20 minutes west of Savannah, Georgia’s historic district. A well-known location ideal for gorgeous vistas, fishing, and taking in the funky sounds of live musicians is the south-end pier and pavilion. It is renowned for its extensive history and offers sights like the 1736 construction of Tybee Island Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in the country, which offers a breathtaking panorama of the surroundings from its summit. Top attractions include the Marine Science Center, the Tybee Island Lighthouse Museum, Fort Screven, and Fort Pulaski, a significant Civil War landmark. Look through Georgia’s hotels and resorts.
2. Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is located along South Carolina’s Grand Stand, a stunning area where a charming coastline meets fun activities for the whole family. The city’s amazing golf courses, intriguing museums, immaculate campgrounds, restaurants by the sea, and superb fishing provide something for everyone. These offer an array of amazing attractions, such as multiple amusement parks, more than fifty mini-golf courses, and the recognizable 200-foot-tall SkyWheel. Both The Big M Casino and Blackbeard’s Pirate Cruise provide waterfront adventures suitable for all age groups, from adults who like gaming to children brandishing swords. The Myrtle Beach Safari and Brookgreen Gardens are two other noteworthy attractions.
3. Niagara Falls
The breathtaking Niagara Falls, one of the most picturesque locations on the East Coast of North America, needs to be on everyone’s bucket list. In terms of volume, the trio of waterfalls is the biggest in the world. Numerous thrilling activities are available at the Niagara Falls State Park and the town of Niagara Falls, including miles of picturesque hiking routes and amazing water excursions. There are several options for visitors to experience the brink of the falls, including scenic cruises, white-water rafting, and kayaking. A fantastic weekend retreat is completed by the restaurants, vineyards, and orchards nearby. Learn about the hotels in Niagara Falls.
4. Cape May
Known for its exceptional seafood restaurants (such as Lobster House on Fisherman’s Wharf), superb wines, and classic jazz festivals, Cape May is a Victorian seaside gem. One of the most picturesque cities in the nation, this one is a National Historic District with about 600 Victorian buildings. It should come as no surprise that the nation’s oldest resort offers a wide range of historical sights and experiences, such as eerie old ghost tours and trolley rides around the historic center. The free Cape May County Park and Zoo and the Cape May Whale Watcher are worth visiting for anyone who enjoy the great outdoors and a good deal.
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5. Hilton Head Island
There are 12 miles of immaculate beaches on the lovely island of Hilton Head. It’s an outdoor haven with a range of recreational offerings, such as 24 top-notch golf courses, 350 tennis courts, bike rides along moss-covered coastal paths, and equestrian excursions through picturesque forest preserves. Signature Experiences, a series of shows, special tours, and demonstrations that let guests explore and experience the Lowcountry more deeply, is their newest attraction. Options range from nature and animals to mixology and gastronomy, history, and culture.
6. Virginia Beach
Situated in the southeast region of Virginia, Virginia Beach is a laid-back coastal community that welcomes guests with a touch of Southern charm. It has an abundance of varied attractions, ranging from gastronomic delights to outdoor adventures, and everything in between. With thousands of acres of parkland to explore, abundant animal trails, bay waterways, and immaculate shorelines, this location is a naturalist’s paradise. With their amazing Oyster Tours, visitors may enjoy walking on water and climbing trees at the Adventure Park. The city is filled with intriguing boutique stores, restaurants, seaside breweries, and museums. It’s also worthwhile to visit the Virginia Aquarium, Town Center, and ViBe Creative District.
7. Chincoteague
Located on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, Chincoteague is a small barrier island well-known for its stunning wild ponies. The island’s untamed beach is a part of the stunning 14,000-acre Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, an untouched haven that preserves the island’s natural state and preserves it as it was during the time that Native Americans visited the island to gather oysters. The tiny town of Chincoteague is peaceful and charming, with charming shops and the Museum of Chincoteague Island. You won’t find any tourist traps there. Visitors pass their time strolling along the stunning beaches, swimming, shell-collecting, motorcycling, taking in the antics of the wild ponies, and seeing the numerous birds.
8. Greenport, Long Island
Greenport was founded in the 1600s when a group of colonists from New Haven crossed Long Island Sound and made land on a deep, safe harbor. It soon rose to prominence as a major shipbuilding, whaling, and oystering port. Whaling and shipbuilding have been replaced by tourism, and Greenport is a well-liked destination for weekend getaways. Greenport, which is surrounded by wine country on Long Island, is a pleasure to stroll around and is home to many quaint stores, boutiques, galleries, and wine-tasting establishments. Mitchell Park, home to the well-known carousel, is a favorite hangout for families. The East End Seaport Museum is a great place for history fans to visit because it has a wealth of historical items and information about the village’s nautical background. For further information about Greenport’s history, visit the Railroad Museum of Long Island and the Floyd Memorial Library. However, taking a stroll through the village pedestrian area with its charming streets is the ideal way to spend the day.
9. Charlottesville
Located in a picturesque setting at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville provides tourists with a taste of Southern hospitality. This vibrant city offers a wide range of year-round activities, amazing restaurants, charming boutique stores, the majestic Downtown Mall built with brick, multiple galleries, and multiple museums. In addition to being home to Thomas Jefferson’s residence, Monticello, and the University of Virginia’s “Academical Village,” two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, they are well-known for their more than thirty local vineyards and orchards. A visit to Beaver Creek Lake, the Morea Gardens, the Paramount Theater, the Freedom of Speech Wall, and Azalea Park is also recommended.
10. Asheville
One of the country’s liveliest and friendliest communities, Asheville is well-known as an art colony, healing retreat, and residence to many prominent bohemians, celebrities, and statesmen. With a rich architectural heritage that combines Art Deco, beaux arts, and neoclassical forms, this city is inviting, edgy, and artistic. The city’s retro-urban setting breathes life into its independently owned art galleries, unique stores, standout eateries, and magnificent performance spaces. The Pisgah National Forest, the Appalachian Mountains, the Thomas Wolfe House, and the Vance Memorial are just a few of the unique attractions that Asheville has to offer.
11. Roanoke
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Roanoke is a city where history, culture, and the natural world all coexist harmoniously. It is customary for people to spend their days outdoors in this region, where they can engage in pursuits like driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway, climbing in the Blue Ridge Mountains, or taking a sunset cruise on Smith Mountain Lake. One of the highlights is going kayaking on the Upper James River Water Trail, which is encircled by amazing wildlife and incredibly beautiful vegetation. Charming tiny shops and markets, restaurants serving food that is sourced locally, artistic galleries, interesting museums like the Museum of Transportation, and a vibrant nightlife are all available to visitors to downtown Roanoke.
12. Brunswick
Georgia’s southeast coast is home to the historic city of Brunswick. Whether tourists prefer to explore the canals or immerse themselves in the local music, art, theater, and historical sights, the city is warm and inviting, calling them to come and have fun. There is a wide variety of specialty shops, antique stores, theaters, museums, restaurants, and art galleries in the downtown area. Visitors can engage in a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, kayaking, fishing, and sailing, thanks to the area’s natural splendor. Brunswick boasts a wealth of historical landmarks, including Horton House, St. Simons Island Light, and Fort Federica National Monument, all of which contribute to its rich past.
13. Annapolis
The US Naval Academy is located in Annapolis, often referred to as America’s Sailing Capital. The city, commonly known as Naptown, has a long history in the maritime industry. With access to Chesapeake Bay and a plethora of creeks, rivers, and inland bays, it’s the perfect place for people who love being in the water. Popular activities include kayaking, canoeing, sailing, paddleboarding, and motor boating. The charming streets, historic inns, culinary options, fashion boutiques, and vibrant cultural scene of downtown Annapolis are well-known. The historic Thomas Point Shoal Light, the Maryland State House, Paca House and Garden, and the Annapolis Maritime Museum are just a few of the city’s many fascinating attractions. Activities in Annapolis
14. Block Island
Block Island, which is located off the coast of Rhode Island, provides tourists with a classic New England experience with its 17 miles of the best beaches in the nation, historic lighthouses, and oceanfront homes. Visitors can gaze out over the spectacular bluffs that rise above some breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic between dishes of clam chowder and lobster rolls. From the mainland, visitors must take a quick ferry ride to reach the island. Block Island’s pristine white sand beaches are easily explored with the help of mopeds. In addition, Block Island has a ton of boutiques that provide the ideal afternoon of window shopping.
15. Duxbury
Travelers looking for a beach break just outside of Boston should drive down to Duxbury, even though it’s a little off the main path. Long lengths of white sand beach line this Massachusetts coastal town, making it the ideal place to take an afternoon stroll or sun nap. At the concession, patrons can satisfy their hunger with classic fare including burgers, chicken fingers, and ice cream. After a day in the sun and sand, visitors can clean up at the beach with its well-kept facilities and showers. If at all possible, stay away from the weekends as Saturdays and Sundays typically draw more crowds.
16. East Haddam
Visitors seeking a traditional New England experience should make a trip to the Connecticut community of East Haddam. Outdoor enthusiasts will find lots to enjoy in East Haddam, from stunning beaches to picturesque nature paths. Numerous state parks can be found in the town, offering chances for the ideal afternoon of hiking, bird watching, or sports. The town’s freshwater beach, which is situated in the Moodus Reserve, is another great place to spend a day. In the meantime, local history is brought to life at the Historical Society Museum. Visitors can unwind and savor a sample of New England’s distinctive cuisine in neighborhood taverns and seafood restaurants.
17. Milton Beach
Milton Beach, a wealthy enclave of Sea Point, offers the ideal vacation on its tiny but quaint beaches. Active tourists can enjoy a spot to walk, cycle, or jog along the promenade along the coast while admiring the breathtaking views of the sea. This vibrant little Delaware town offers a plethora of activities, including the Horseshoe Crab and Shorebird Festival, the Broadkill Banjos & Seafood Festival, and the Holly Festival, in addition to historical house tours and a farmers market. A visit and sampling at Dogfish Head Brewery, the beloved Delaware craft beer company around the country, should be a part of every vacation.
18. Ithaca
Ithaca is the ideal holiday spot for athletic people who like to go skiing, hiking, and mountain biking because it has more than 28,000 acres of public parks. Ithaca is located on the southern edge of the largest Finger Lake, Cayuga Lake, where visitors can go fishing and boating, visit nearby wineries and breweries, or just enjoy the breathtaking scenery. A visit to Ithaca wouldn’t be complete without taking in some of its magnificent waterfalls and gorges. There are numerous hotels and bed & breakfasts in this quaint community that welcome visitors. Since Cornell University, an Ivy League university, is located in Ithaca, visitors can also experience a little bit of the college town vibe. Activities in Ithaca
19. Martha’s Vineyard
Rich and famous people love to vacation on Martha’s Vineyard, an island that is only 45 minutes by ferry from Cape Cod. Gorgeous beaches, brightly colored gingerbread cottages, striking lighthouses, and seas studded with sailboats may all be found in this town. A few of the features that make this island so special include its amazing farmers markets, enchanted carousel, Flying Horses, and regular sightings of famous people. Natural and beautiful sites like Aquinnah Cliffs, Mytoi, South Beach State Park, and the Native Earth Teaching Farm are well-known for being part of this idyllic paradise. Other well-known attractions include Spirit Shack, The Black Dog Tavern, and Bad Martha Farmer’s Brewery. Activities on Martha’s Vineyard
20. Fairhaven
Fairhaven, a seaside community in Massachusetts, is tucked away midway between Providence, Rhode Island, and Cape Cod. It is situated across from the well-known whaling port of New Bedford. This intriguing New England seaside town, which was founded in 1812, offers tourists historical sights, biking, hiking, and beach access. Hoppy’s Landing is the ideal spot for boaters and kayakers to enjoy the sea air, while history fans might visit Fort Phoenix, the site of the first naval combat of the American Revolution, which took place offshore. Every Friday, it hosts Minuteman Presentations. Restaurants serve traditional New England fare in charming taverns and inns by the sea with the goal of pleasing patrons.
21. Bar Harbor
With its towering granite cliffs and rock-bound coastline, Bar Harbor provides visitors a distinct mystique that gives the town an air of romance and adventure. Bar Harbor, which is encircled by Acadia National Park and sits on the sea, has unparalleled visual splendor. Over 50 square kilometers of lakes and mountains will excite outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of hiking and bicycling paths that provide visitors with views of the breathtaking shoreline. Other must-see sights are the George B. Dorr Museum of National History, the Abbe Museum, Somes Sand, Jordan Pond, Mount Desert Island Historical, and the Asticou Azalea Garden.
22. Portsmouth
With its historic harbors, sidewalk stores, colonial mansions, art galleries, mouthwatering restaurants, jazz clubs, and artisan boutiques, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, embodies the beauty of New England. Throughout the year, this quaint seaside town has a variety of cultural events, including theatrical productions, wine and food festivals, concerts, and family-friendly activities. The famous Moran tugboats are anchored at Portsmouth Harbor, a working port that is a must-see for tourists. The 48-foot Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1877, still commands a view of the harbor’s entrance. Visitors can enjoy boat charters, fishing, sightseeing excursions, and whale watching as entertaining ways to explore the surrounding waterways. Events in Portsmouth, New Hampshire
23. Nags Head
The Outer Banks of North Carolina are home to Nags Head. Its immaculate beaches, which are perfect for swimming, beachcombing, sunbathing, and surfing, are its main draw. This is the ideal place to go sailing, hang gliding over Jockey’s Ridge, kayaking rolling waves, and snorkeling around shipwrecks. Along with its rich history, traditions, and natural surroundings, the area is renowned for its attractions like Kill Devil Hill, which is home to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, a national park service site. Notable sites include the Monument to a Century of Flight, Nags Head Woods Preserve, Jockey’s Ridge State Park, and the Bodie Island Lighthouse.
24. Bethany Beach
Bethany Beach is a tranquil seaside town renowned for its understated elegance and for striking a mild balance between fun-loving diversions and serene family-friendly attractions. Here, a normal day consists of reading at the bookshop, enjoying an ice cream cone, strolling along the boardwalk, and relaxing at the beach. With a variety of unique and mouthwatering dining options, including neighborhood favorites Blue Crab Restaurant, Bluecoast Seafood Grille, and the seaside Bethany Boathouse, it has a thriving restaurant scene. Although Bethany Beach undoubtedly has a little town, with a “Mayberry” feel to it, the residents liven it up with free concerts on the weekends and beach movies.
25. St. Augustine
The oldest city in the United States is St. Augustine, which was formally established by Spanish immigrants in 1565. St. Augustine, which is on Florida’s northeastern coast, draws visitors with its peaceful beaches and Spanish colonial architecture. With its distinctive stores, pubs, cafes, and restaurants, the city’s charming historic quarter offers visitors a full day of exploration on its cobblestone streets. The 1,600 acres of Anastasia State Park have thriving ecosystems, beaches, tidal marshes, and nature trails in addition to a wealth of species. There are more than 40 miles of immaculate beaches in St. Augustine, some of which accept cars and pets.