Beach Towns in the Southeast United States

The beaches found along the coastlines that define the southeast United States vary from white sugar-sand beaches alongside calm waters to golden sand beaches with waves on which to hang 10. Here are a few fun beach towns to consider when planning your next seaside vacation.

Alabama

We look to Gulf Shores for its fun vibe, terrific shopping and dining scenes, and all around good time. A bit quieter than the beach towns to its east, Gulf Shores has its own appeal. Not to mention the stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.

Florida

The Sunshine State can easily lay claim to three coastlines — the east coast on the Atlantic Ocean; the west coast on the Gulf of Mexico; and the Panhandle to the north, which also lies on the Gulf of Mexico. If you find yourself on the Atlantic side of the state, Delray Beach is a terrific small town with a laid-back feel, yet continental atmosphere with loads of restaurants, boutiques, galleries and bars to meander through. Over on the west coast, join the sunset celebration each night on Clearwater Beach, named No. 1 in the United States on TripAdvisor’s list of Top Beaches for 2018. Up on the Panhandle, Seaside has a Main Street America feel, with a gorgeous beach to add to the appeal.

Clear Water Beach Florida. Photo: Kevin Ruck | Dreamstime.com

Georgia

Outside of Savannah is Tybee Island, a friendly and welcoming beach town void of high rises and resorts. Rather, hop on your bike and ride around the island, choosing a spot to eat or a shop to pop into. Beach days on Tybee Island are beach days like they used to be.

South Carolina

Folly Beach has that surfer vibe so many of us yearn for during a day — or more — in the sun. It’s casual, familiar and just all around fun.

North Carolina

The Outer Banks is comprised of more than a dozen beach towns and villages, each with its own personality and draw. Probably one of the best-known and certainly longest in existence is Nags Head which, despite its immense popularity, somehow still maintains its small-town feel.

Virginia

Not only is there plenty of beach to enjoy in Virginia Beach, but activities off the beach, too. Stay on the water’s edge in Oceanfront and check out the cafes and live music performances, or buy a snow cone from one of the vendors and stroll the three-mile-long boardwalk. Better yet, why not do it all?!