A seaside sojourn is always a good idea, and, fortunately, you don’t need to travel too far to embark on a relaxing beach getaway. That’s because America is home to a slew of incredible beach towns, all of which boast stunning scenery and postcard-worthy vistas. And, should you end up needing a break from the beach, most of them also feature vibrant downtown areas (think: shopping, dining, drinking, and entertainment offerings) or can’t-miss nearby attractions (such as historic lighthouses and nature preserves). Here are a few of our favorite beach towns in the U.S., from Alabama to Oregon and beyond.
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Gulf Shores, Alabama
Sugar-sand beaches, ample wildlife spotting ops, and stunning surroundings: find all this and more in Gulf Shores, Alabama. This enchanting oceanfront city is home to the expansive Gulf State Park, whose 6,000-plus acres include 2 miles of beach. Here, travelers can soak up the sun from the sand, hop into the ocean for a refreshing dip, and be on the lookout for sea turtles, otters, and deer. When it comes time to refuel, head to local favorites like The Hangout Restaurant, LuLu’s, Pink Pony Pub, and Tacky Jacks for some fresh seafood.