Chatham, Massachusetts

Don't be turned off by Cape Cod's popularity as a vacation destination — it's actually made up of multiple smaller towns, each with their own unique personalities. Chatham, located at the southeast tip of Cape Cod, is the perfect place to escape the crowds, thanks to its small town qualities (it's completely walkable) and its spectacular coastline.

For more information, visit chatham-ma.gov.

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Traverse City, Michigan

This coastal city is a calm, sleepy lakeside residence — until thousands of visitors flock to its shores and wineries come beach season. In addition to offering standard seaside activities, Traverse City's climate is also perfect for its two booming crops — wine and cherries.

For more information, visit traversecity.com.

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Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores used to be a bit of a hidden treasure, but now the secret's out — more and more families are discovering its weekend getaway potential and heading to this town situated on the Gulf of Mexico. Find adventure, fun and relaxation on its white-sand beaches, made of quartz grains washed down from the Appalachian Mountains.

For more information, visit gulfshores.com.

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Ogunquit, Maine

This beach town's name actually means "beautiful place by the sea," so basically, it doesn't get better than Ogunquit when it comes to beach towns. Get ready to enjoy simple pleasures in this small, tranquil village — think glistening white sand, a small harbor, fishing and a quaint New England town center.

For more information, visit ogunquit.org.

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Beaufort, North Carolina

This seaside town is a maritime lover's dream come true — historically, it was a bustling port, which led to the influx of merchants, traders and boat builders over the years. Today, it remains the perfect place for boating enthusiasts, featuring historical homes and a booming fishing industry.

For more information, visit beaufort-nc.com.

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Tybee Island, Georgia

It's no surprise that this charming island is a popular vacation destination for residents of Savannah, one of the loveliest cities in the South. Here, you'll find magnificent salt marshes and wildlife unique to southeastern Georgia.

For more information, visit tybeeisland.com.

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Key West, Florida

This island destination, located at the southernmost point of Florida, is known for its pastel conch houses and laid-back attitude. It's actually more popular for its coral reefs than its beaches, so take note, diving and snorkeling enthusiasts!

For more information, visit fla-keys.com.

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Long Beach, Washington

Properly named, the Long Beach Peninsula claims to be America's longest beach, stretching across 28 miles of sandy shore perfection.

For more information, visit funbeach.com.

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Chincoteague, Virginia

You won't see any high rise hotels or boardwalks on this fairytale island. Instead, prepare to fall in love with the wild Chincoteague ponies, who are free to roam across the Assateague Island National Seashore.

For more information, visit chincoteaguechamber.com.

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Newport, Rhode Island

Don't be fooled by the fact that Newport is known as a popular New England summer resort town — it's hiding loads of country charm! You'll find dozens of surviving colonial buildings alongside quirky restaurants and boutiques.

For more information, visit discovernewport.org.

PHOTO: Artur Staszewski/Flickr Creative Commons

York Beach, Maine

This Maine town's population more than triples come summertime, when visitors flood in to enjoy its natural beauty and seaside charm, with outdoor activities like deep sea fishing, kayaking and exploring nature preserves.

For more information, visit visitmaine.net.

PHOTO: Mr Silverblood/Flickr Creative Commons

Cape May, New Jersey

Home to romantic bed and breakfasts and horse-drawn carriages, we think Cape May wins for the most charming place to stay on the Jersey Shore.

For more information, visit capemay.com.

PHOTO: MBTRAMA/Flickr Creative Commons

Rye, New Hampshire

This beach town, known historically as New Hampshire's first settlement, is the perfect spot for a quiet family getaway. It has the longest stretch of coastline of any coastal town in the state — and of course, the more pristine beaches, the better the summertime relaxation!

For more information, visit ryebeachinfo.com.

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Mystic, Connecticut

Founded as a shipbuilding center in 1654, Mystic is known for its quintessential New England charm. It's home to the world's largest maritime museum, the Mystic Seaport, and the Mystic Aquarium, both popular tourist attractions.

For more information, visit mystic.org.

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Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Known for its fairytale-like architecture and quirky culture, Carmel is a picturesque beach town where practically everything is within walking distance.

For more information, visit carmelcalifornia.com

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Galveston, Texas

Dubbed the "Playground of the South" back in the 1800s, this city is still a popular tourist destination today. In addition to its beautiful beaches, Galveston's lush Moody Gardens are a popular place to visit, where you'll find tropical plants and a 10-story rainforest.

For more information, visit galveston.com.

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Ocean City, Maryland

During the summer months, people flock to Ocean City to enjoy miles of picture-perfect beaches and a wooden boardwalk offering food, games and shopping.

For more information, visit ococean.com.

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Lewes, Delaware

Looking for sun, sand, and sea? Head to this quaint walking town and take in the beauty of nature, with its miles of beaches, nature trails and bird sanctuaries.

For more information, visit lewes.com.

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Cannon Beach, Oregon

Home to 363 miles of secluded beaches and sand dunes, visitors to and residents of this small town have the privilege of looking out over stunning mountain views in the distance.

For more information, visit cannonbeach.org.

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Isle of Palms, South Carolina

This coastal city not only promises breathtaking views and family-friendly beaches, it's also committed to preserving the island's natural ecology. It regularly wins the Blue Wave Designation from the Clean Beaches Council, which recognizes environmentally well-managed beaches.

For more information, visit iop.net.

PHOTO: Andrew Glavin/Flickr Creative Commons