Weekend by the Water: 15 Seaside Escapes Worth the Drive

Looking for the perfect place to relax, soak in the sun, and unwind by the sea? These coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway offer beautiful beaches, charming towns, and refreshing ocean views. Each destination brings its own unique experience that helps you disconnect from the everyday hustle.

1. Cape May, NJ – Victorian Elegance by the Sea

This Victorian beach town offers a peaceful yet vibrant retreat. The charm of coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway, comes alive here with colorful architecture, antique shops, and gourmet dining. The sandy beaches are clean and calm, perfect for sunbathing or reading a book. You can enjoy whale watching tours or simply walk the historic streets. Sunsets at Sunset Beach are unforgettable.

2. Cannon Beach, OR – Coastal Cliffs and Creative Vibes

Surrounded by natural beauty, Cannon Beach gives you cliffs, sea stacks, and wide stretches of sand. It’s one of the most scenic coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway on the West Coast. Haystack Rock is the iconic centerpiece and a great spot for tide-pooling. Local galleries, cozy cafes, and forest trails offer a blend of culture and outdoor fun. The town’s peaceful vibe lets you slow down and truly relax.

3. Tybee Island, GA – Laid-Back Charm with a Southern Breeze

This laid-back barrier island is just a short drive from Savannah. As one of the top coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway, Tybee Island invites you with its relaxed southern charm and ocean breeze. You’ll find soft beaches, historic lighthouses, and dolphin tours. Seafood shacks serve fresh catch that brings the island flavor to life. Kayaking through marshes adds a bit of adventure to the trip.

4. Newport, RI – Gilded Mansions and Ocean Views

Famous for its grand mansions and coastal views, Newport is elegant yet welcoming. It stands out as one of the must-visit coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway with its historic charm and Atlantic breeze. The Cliff Walk blends natural beauty with architecture, offering a unique walking experience. Sailboats line the harbor, giving the town a timeless nautical feel. Fine dining and local festivals add to the weekend thrill.

5. Santa Barbara, CA – The American Riviera in Weekend Form

Known as the American Riviera, Santa Barbara combines beach life with Spanish-style elegance. It’s one of those coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway where palm-lined streets and mountain backdrops meet the sea. The beaches are ideal for surfing, picnics, or sunset strolls. Wineries and boutique shops keep the vibe sophisticated but easygoing. A bike ride along the waterfront completes the experience.

6. Rockport, MA – Art, Lobster, and Classic New England Shores

This coastal village boasts an artsy soul and New England charm. As one of the most unique coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway, Rockport offers rocky coastlines, working harbors, and the iconic Motif No.1. Art galleries and seafood spots fill the quaint downtown. The pace is slow and refreshing, perfect for recharging. Walk the breakwater or explore nearby Halibut Point State Park.

7. Gulf Shores, AL – Southern Hospitality Meets Soft Sands

Warm waters and white sands define this southern beach town. It’s easily among the top coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway in the Gulf Coast. Gulf Shores blends fun and relaxation with beach volleyball, seafood festivals, and nature trails. You can visit Bon Secour Wildlife Refuge or enjoy parasailing over turquoise waves. The sunsets are golden and the hospitality unmatched.

8. La Jolla, CA – Sea Lions, Sunsets, and a Luxe Coastal Scene

This upscale coastal neighborhood near San Diego offers dramatic cliffs, marine life, and sunny weather. It’s a standout when it comes to coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway on the Pacific. You can snorkel with sea lions, kayak through caves, or enjoy oceanfront dining. The town center has museums, shops, and art galleries to explore. The beach vibe here comes with a touch of luxury.

9. Hilton Head Island, SC – Golf, Nature, and Ocean Bliss

This island is known for its golf courses and laid-back lifestyle. It remains a classic choice among coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway with its low-country beauty and family-friendly beaches. Bike trails weave through oak-lined paths and resorts offer spa treatments and water sports. Wildlife lovers will enjoy the nature preserves. It’s a complete blend of comfort and adventure.

10. Bar Harbor, ME – Where Mountains Meet the Atlantic

Nestled by Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor delivers a rugged, refreshing coast. Among coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway, this one offers both mountain and ocean scenery. You can hike in the morning and enjoy fresh lobster by evening. The harbor is lively with sailing tours and seaside cafes. It’s a perfect escape for nature lovers and foodies alike.

11. Seaside, FL – Whimsical Streets and Emerald Waters

Pastel cottages and bike-friendly streets define this quaint beach town. It’s one of the most charming coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway along the Emerald Coast. The beach is calm and family-friendly, great for relaxing swims or building sandcastles. Farmers’ markets, live music, and beach yoga give it a warm community vibe. It’s simple, stylish, and soothing all at once.

12. Monterey, CA – Marine Life, Rugged Shores, and Coastal Calm

Home to marine wildlife and dramatic coastline, Monterey is unforgettable. It’s among the most scenic coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway on California’s rugged coast. The world famous aquarium, Cannery Row, and 17-Mile Drive keep you entertained. You can watch whales from the shore or take a kayak out into the bay. The salty breeze and rocky views calm the soul.

13. Rehoboth Beach, DE – Boardwalk Fun and Beachside Energy

Known for its boardwalk and vibrant summer scene, Rehoboth Beach is fun and friendly. It’s one of the lively coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway on the East Coast. Ice cream shops, arcades, and beach bars make it ideal for all ages. The beach is wide, clean, and perfect for a splash. Sunset boat cruises and outlet shopping round out the trip.

14. Port Aransas, TX – A True Gulf Coast Gem

This Gulf town is all about fishing, surfing, and sandy toes. As a top pick for coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway, Port Aransas mixes Texas hospitality with beach life. Rent a golf cart and cruise the beach, or go birdwatching at the nature reserve. The marina is buzzing with boats and seafood spots. It’s casual, colorful, and full of coastal charm.

15. Mendocino, CA – Clifftop Beauty and Quiet Escapes

This clifftop village offers dramatic ocean views and peaceful vibes. Mendocino is one of those magical coastal escapes perfect for a weekend getaway where art, nature, and quiet coexist beautifully. Walk through redwood forests or explore tide pools by the bluffs. The town has galleries, gardens, and cozy inns. It’s ideal for a quiet romantic escape or personal retreat.