Dreaming of a European coastal getaway filled with cobblestone streets, seaside cafés, historic charm, and breathtaking ocean views? You don’t have to cross the Atlantic to experience it. Across the United States, a surprising number of coastal destinations capture the atmosphere of Mediterranean villages, English seaside towns, and charming French harbors.
From New England fishing villages to sun-drenched California coastal gems, these destinations combine European-style charm with uniquely American landscapes. If you’re looking for a coastal escape that feels romantic, historic, and slightly off the radar, these 18 underrated U.S. beach towns that feel like Europe belong on your travel bucket list.
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Underrated East Coast Beach Towns That Feel Like Europe
Kennebunkport, Maine
Kennebunkport reflects the quiet elegance of a Northern European fishing village, where lobster boats fill the harbor and charming downtown streets feature boutique shops and cozy bakeries. Scenic coastal walks, historic inns, and classic New England maritime heritage create a timeless seaside experience that feels worlds away from typical beach destinations.
Best time to Visit: Late Spring through early Fall (May–October) offers pleasant coastal weather, blooming landscapes, and active harbor life. Fall is especially scenic with colorful foliage.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Often compared to the rugged coastline of Brittany, France, Bar Harbor blends coastal beauty with access to Acadia National Park. Visitors enjoy oceanfront dining, sailing excursions, whale-watching tours, and breathtaking views from Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the East Coast.
Best time to Visit: June through September provides the best access to Acadia National Park trails, whale-watching tours, and comfortable coastal temperatures.
Ogunquit, Maine
Meaning “beautiful place by the sea,” Ogunquit lives up to its name with a charming seaside atmosphere reminiscent of coastal France. The famous Marginal Way coastal path offers stunning Atlantic views, while local art galleries, cafés, and three miles of sandy shoreline make this town a favorite hidden gem.
Best time to Visit: Summer (June–August) is ideal for beach weather, while September offers fewer crowds and warm ocean views along the Marginal Way.
Pro Tip: Keep in mind that even in summer, the water is not very warm in Maine. Be prepared to have a warm towel and cover up once you get out of the water.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
With cobblestone streets, historic cottages, and hydrangea-lined fences, Nantucket feels like the English countryside surrounded by ocean. Its relaxed elegance, boutique shopping, and fresh seafood dining make it one of the most romantic coastal retreats in the United States.
Best time to Visit: Summer (June–August) is ideal for beach weather, while September offers fewer crowds and warm ocean views along the Marginal Way.
Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May’s Victorian architecture, colorful historic inns, and seaside promenades give it the charm of a coastal town of southern England. Visitors can explore Washington Street’s shops, bike along scenic streets, climb the Cape May Lighthouse, or relax on quiet beaches surrounded by preserved 19th-century architecture. I was charmed with this quaint town the first time I visited and have enjoyed something new with each visit.
Best time to Visit: May through October provides the best mix of beach weather, historic tours, and outdoor activities, with fall offering quieter charm.
Charming Southern Coastal Towns with European Atmosphere
Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort’s moss-draped oak trees, waterfront views, and historic homes evoke the peaceful elegance of southern France. The town’s slow pace, art galleries, historic districts, and waterfront cafés make it a perfect destination for travelers seeking relaxed coastal charm.
Best time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and fall (October–November) are best for mild temperatures and comfortable waterfront exploring.
Pro Tip: Bring a waterproof bag with you to put your bathing suits in to leave in the car while you explore before heading to your hotel. We like this that we found on Amazon.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston blends historic European elegance with coastal Southern beauty. Pastel buildings, historic homes, waterfront promenades, and nearby beaches such as Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach create a destination that combines history, culture, and beach relaxation. History buffs will enjoy Fort Sumter and touring the historic homes. We enjoyed strolling King Street and the City Market for great gifts and wonderful food.
Best time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) provide the most pleasant weather for historic walking tours and nearby beach visits.
St. Augustine, Florida
Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States and features Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks like Castillo de San Marcos. Nearby beaches and historic plazas give the city a distinct Mediterranean feel. And everyone must see the Fountain of Youth! Relax in the spring and take a sip, you never know you may get eternal life. It really is a beautiful city, and I enjoyed the hospitality everywhere we went.
Best time to Visit: March through May offers warm but comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and excellent sightseeing conditions.
Anna Maria Island, Florida
Anna Maria Island’s turquoise waters, historic piers, and relaxed island pace resemble the charm of the Greek islands. With walkable streets, beachfront sunsets, and local shops and restaurants, the island offers a peaceful European-style coastal escape. Historic piers and homes make it an all-around great place to visit.
Best time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and fall (October–November) provide ideal beach weather without peak summer humidity.
California Coastal Towns That Feel Like Europe
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel-by-the-Sea resembles a fairytale English village, featuring storybook cottages, art galleries, flower-filled courtyards, and a stunning white-sand beach. For history lovers visit Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Río Carmelo and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Walker house. Take the 17-mile scenic drive to see the amazing scenery, take a food tour or do the wine walk and enjoy all this town has to offer. This is a favorite for romantic getaways.
Best time to Visit: September through November often delivers the clearest coastal weather, though the town is beautiful year-round.
Santa Barbara, California
Often called the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara features Spanish-style architecture, red-tiled roofs, palm-lined beaches, and a Mediterranean climate. Visitors enjoy seaside cafés, historic missions, shopping, and endless outdoor activities.
Best time to Visit: Year-round destination, but spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
Monterey, California
Monterey’s historic harbor, rocky coastline, and seaside charm feel like Portugal’s coastal towns. Whale-watching tours, enjoying the seals and sea otters playing, Cannery Row, and Old Fisherman’s Wharf offer a perfect mix of history and scenic beauty.
Best time to Visit: Year-round destination, but spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
Laguna Beach, California
Laguna Beach captures the artistic spirit of a Mediterranean coastal village with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, art festivals, and oceanfront cafés. Its vibrant creative culture and scenic beaches make it one of California’s most picturesque coastal destinations.
Best time to Visit: Late Spring through early Fall (May–October) offers the best beach weather, art festivals, and outdoor dining.
Half Moon Bay, California
With rugged cliffs and sweeping ocean views reminiscent of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, Half Moon Bay offers a romantic coastal atmosphere. Visitors enjoy beach horseback riding, whale watching, coastal wineries, and scenic drives along Highway 1.
Best time to visit: September through November typically brings warmer coastal temperatures and clearer skies compared to summer fog.
Bodega Bay, California
Bodega Bay’s misty cliffs and rugged shoreline evoke the beauty of coastal Scotland. Fresh seafood restaurants, quiet beaches, and scenic hiking trails make it a peaceful alternative to busier California coastal cities.
Best time to Visit: Spring through early fall (April–October) provides the best coastal hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.
La Jolla, California
La Jolla’s turquoise waters, elegant villas, and cliffside coastal paths bring to mind Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Visitors enjoy oceanfront dining, boutique shopping, and wildlife viewing at La Jolla Cove and nearby coastal reserves. I really loved watching the sea lions playing and sunning on the rocks in the ocean. The town is very charming and worth a visit.
Best time to Visit: Year-round destination, though September through November offers warm water, sunny days, and fewer crowds.
Pacific Northwest Beach Towns with European Coastal Vibes
Port Orford, Oregon
Port Orford’s dramatic sea stacks, rugged cliffs, and quiet harbor resemble Ireland’s windswept coastlines. Beachcombing, scenic hiking trails, and charming small-town shops.
Best time to Visit: Late Spring through early Fall (May–September) offers the most reliable weather for hiking, beachcombing, and coastal exploration.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Known for the iconic Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach offers the moody coastal beauty of Northern Europe. Scenic drives along Highway 101, art galleries, and charming downtown streets make this one of Oregon’s most beloved coastal destinations.
Best time to Visit: Summer (June–September) provides the warmest and driest weather, though winter offers dramatic storm-watching opportunities.
Final Thoughts: European-Style Beach Towns in the United States
You don’t need a passport to experience the charm of a European coastal vacation. From historic New England harbors and Southern waterfront towns to Mediterranean-style California destinations and rugged Pacific Northwest coastlines, these underrated U.S. beach towns deliver history, scenery, and romantic seaside atmosphere without leaving the country.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, scenic coastal road trip, or relaxing beach vacation, these European-inspired beach towns in the United States offer unforgettable alternatives to crowded tourist hotspots. Don’t forget your camera! You’ll want pictures of these beautiful towns. If you’re looking for a new camera, we really like the Kodak PixPro. It not only is a great size for travel, but it takes awesome pictures and videos.
We love sharing tips and information we learn along the way to help you plan your next trip. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.