15 Beautiful Beach Towns That Retirees Love That Aren’t In Florida
Beach towns aren’t just for college students on spring break. They’re for anyone who wants to take a leisurely break from the fast pace of daily life. Not all beach towns are the same; certain beaches appeal to specific groups, including retirees.
Some of the most beautiful beach towns in the country draw them in. Many of them are in Florida, but many are in other states. Does your favorite beach town have what it takes to appeal to retired people?
1. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
It’s not an exaggeration to say that Martha’s Vineyard is one of the most picturesque places in the U.S., if not the world. Between the New England-style homes and gorgeous natural scenery, what’s not to like?
What sets Martha’s Vineyard apart from other beach towns? It has nearly 20 beaches bordering three bodies of water. Some beaches are only available to residents, and others are open to the public.
2. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Retirees looking for a spot with numerous attractions are drawn to Rehoboth Beach. There are bike trails, state parks, shopping, and a weekly farmer’s market open from May through October.
The nearly two-mile white sand beach has a mile-long boardwalk lined with shops, food stands, entertainment spots, and a bandstand that hosts concerts in the summer.
3. Ocean City, New Jersey
Whether you’re from the region or elsewhere, you only need to see a photo of the iconic Ferris wheel to know it’s Ocean City, New Jersey. Buying a slice of pizza on the boardwalk is a must.
Ocean City’s beaches are eight miles long and spacious enough to accommodate the many visitors they receive. You can paddle board, take surfing lessons, or relax on the sand.
4. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Retirees who want a healthy side of southern hospitality while staying in a beach town venture to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Myrtle Beach isn’t just a single city; it consists of 14 communities.
Myrtle Beach’s legendary boardwalk has dinner theaters, music venues, and an aquarium. It has 60 miles of beaches and more than 90 golf courses. No wonder it’s called the “Golf Capital of the World.”
5. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach is another beach town made up of several communities. It boasts different beaches that suit different preferences, whether you want to be on land or at sea.
The Oceanfront beach has the most activity and entertainment. The Chesapeake Bay beaches are ideal for surfing, and the Sandbridge beach is perfect if you’re looking for a more secluded environment.
6. Carlsbad, California
The West Coast has its share of wonderful beaches, and the ones in Carlsbad, California, more than fit that criteria. Whatever you want to do, you can easily find it in Carlsbad.
In the water, you can swim, dive, and surf. You can play, bike, hike, hunt for rocks, watch birds, and much more on land. You can dine at several restaurants and breweries, or buy fresh produce at the State Street Farmers’ Market.
7. Ocean City, Maryland
Another Ocean City on the East Coast is the wildly popular one in Maryland. If you’re a pet parent, this is a great place to spend time with your furry best friends.
Ocean City has dog parks, pet-friendly beaches, restaurants, clinics, pet stores, and groomers. If you don’t want to board your pet while you’re away, you can bring them along to enjoy spending time with you.
8. Beaufort, South Carolina
Located on Port Royal Island in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, Beaufort is an idyllic spot that brings together culture, history, and fun activities for an extraordinary experience.
Hunting Island, Port Royal, and St. Helena’s beaches have distinct features like salt marshes, minimal waves, and seclusion. You can learn the history of the Gullah culture and dine on some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste.
9. Del Mar, California
Retired beachgoers wanting a spot with nice weather year-round, dog friendly, and not in Florida should take a serious look at the city of Del Mar, California.
The beaches have two coastal parks, Seagrove Park and the grandkid-friendly Powerhouse Park. Hiking enthusiasts have 19 hiking trails to choose from.
10. Avalon, New Jersey
The Seven Mile Beach in Avalon, New Jersey, is probably unlike other beaches you’ve visited. Avalon is one of the richest boroughs in the state, so it’s not unusual to see people dressed to the beachiest nines.
Unlike many other beach towns, Avalon has a short boardwalk. But the blocks neighboring the beach are lined with elegant boutiques and restaurants. It’s the perfect location for an upscale, leisurely shore experience.
11. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Boasting 12 miles of white sand, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is one of the most acclaimed beaches in the country. The island’s amenities rival those of any beach in the country.
There are guided tours, salons, art galleries, and museums. You can participate in health and wellness programs and visit the spa. You can play pickleball matches with others, and yes, you can golf.
12. Outer Banks, North Carolina
The islands comprising North Carolina’s Outer Banks are as diverse as the South itself. Some beaches are ideal for surfing and swimming, and others are for walking and four-wheeling.
Kitty Hawk, where the Wright Brothers first flew, is one of the Outer Banks islands. The tradition of air travel continues with air tours and hang gliding.
13. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel Beach in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is considered one of the top beach towns in the U.S., and it’s easy to see why. It has excellent activities like surfing and moderate weather every month of the year.
The temperatures are optimal for the beach fires Carmel is known for. There’s also a walking path to take in the fantastic scenic views.
14. Kennebunk, Maine
Not to be confused with Kennebunkport, Maine, Kennebunk is a separate place. It’s a picturesque town with multiple beaches and an exceptional seascape.
Depending on which one you go to, some are white sand beaches that are best for sunning and swimming. Others have rocky shores that are good for walking and searching for sand dollars and sea glass.
15. Long Beach Island, New Jersey
Referred to as LBI by the local population, this island’s several beaches offer a unique experience. You can visit the one that appeals to your personal preferences.
You can view incredible sunsets from one beach, take a boat out at another, and lie in the sun at a third beach. Going to see all of the beaches of LBI is an adventure in itself.
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