The 10 Best Coastal Towns in New England

Join the editors of Yankee Magazine as we visit the prettiest coastal towns in New England, from Down East Harbors to Victorian island resorts.

Something magical happens when you spend some time at the shore. The space where land and water meet compels us to imagine possibilities, to wax philosophical, and to make sure seagulls don’t steal our ice cream cone. The coastal towns of New England, where clam shacks and tidal pools mingle with yachts and upscale bistros, are some of the best places in the world to watch a sunrise over the ocean or enjoy a weekend of relaxation. And with 6,130 miles of shoreline, there’s plenty of “pretty” in our little part of the world – and plenty of history along that coast. In fact, a delightful village in Connecticut boasts a wealth of 18th and 19th century buildings, not to mention the option to climb to the top of a stone lighthouse built in 1840, where you can view the coast of three states. New Hampshire is also home to a historical lighthouse. Originally built in 1771, this working lighthouse offers an unparalleled view of New Hampshire’s deep port and the adjacent coastal town that is made up entirely of islands. In nearby Massachusetts, a modest lighthouse is situated near an old fishing village, but the town is better known for its art these days. The rugged shorelines, hidden coves, and bustling historic district are home to a vibrant artist community, as well as the most painted building in the world. From artsy to opulent, a coastal community in Rhode Island is best known for racing yachts and Gilded Age mansions, but don’t overlook the cozy taverns and historical significance of this city by the sea. History is alive and well in Maine, too, where the Victorian splendor of a bygone era is set against the backdrop of a pristine national park. This historic resort town is ideal for exploring boutique shops or hiking the quiet trails for a bird’s eye view of the harbor. Oh! And you can take a lighthouse tour on a catamaran! Where can you find these and more of our favorite coastal towns in New England? Read 10 Prettiest Coastal Towns in New England. Then start planning your summer vacations when you take a look at our Yankee Special Collection: Summer Destinations to learn more tips on where to go and what to do this summer. Discover our favorite day trips, weekend getaways, beach destinations, and more all across New England. It’s never too early–or too late–to plan your New England summer. Find out more in our Yankee Special Collection: Summer Destinations! From the hidden gems of New England to late summer adventures, and from the lakes of Maine to the Upper Valley of Vermont and New Hampshire, you’ll discover what makes summer in New England so special. Our Yankee Special Collection: Summer Destinations takes you across New England to explore the wonderful world that we call home. With your Yankee All-Access Charter Membership, you have full access to everything in the Yankee Special Collection: Summer Destinations, including:

• An insider’s guide to the beach towns where you can enjoy sun, sand, and steamed clams, in The 25 Best Beach Towns in New England
• A dive into the sparkling waters of Rhode Island, where every local has a favorite ‘secret’ beach, in Beaches of South County, Rhode Island
• 10 New England Summer Vacations You Need to Book NOW!, which is not a story you want to miss
• Where you can find the ultimate in true New England flavor, in 12 Best Lobster Shacks in New England
• Where you can go to relax and unwind, with the ocean just steps away from your door, in Sandcastles by the Sea: Favorite New England Beachside Lodging

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