Life really can be a beach… if you know where to go! Time Out reveals the 10 best U.S. towns to beat the crowds while lounging by the ocean this summer – but can YOU guess where they are?

• Time Out has released a list of 10 best beach towns in the U.S. to avoid the crowds this summer 
• These are spots ‘where you can spread out on the sand’ and’ hop over to a  restaurant without a reservation’
• Siesta Key in Florida, Brewster in Massachusetts and Dewey Beach in Delaware were spots to make the cut 

If tussling over a spot to lay your beach towel isn’t your thing, read on.   

Time Out has released a list of 10 best beach towns in the U.S. to avoid the crowds this summer with Siesta Key in Florida, Brewster in Massachusetts and Dewey Beach in Delaware among those making the cut. 

Time Out’s US editor Virginia Gil says the experts picked these places, as they are spots ‘where you can spread out on the sand, hop over to a great restaurant without a reservation, show up to an event unplanned and spend a few days away from it all.’

Swim down to see down the selection of calm coastal spots, where you can hear crashing waves over chattering crowds. 

1. Siesta Key, Florida

The experts say that Siesta Key ‘doesn’t get the same traffic as other Florida beach destinations like Miami, Key West, or even Destin and Panama City’

Though Siesta Beach is regularly named one of the best beaches in the U.S., the experts say that Siesta Key ‘doesn’t get the same traffic as other Florida beach destinations like Miami, Key West, or even Destin and Panama City.’ 

There are three beaches on the barrier island – Crescent, Turtle and Siesta – all with ‘powdery white sand beaches and cool blue water.’ 

The Time Out editors say that tourists from the North come down in the winter, but summers are ‘low-key, with mostly locals hitting the beach.’ 

Local attractions include shops and golf facilities, and nearby Sarasota offers art galleries, museums and more.

Where to stay: The Inn on Siesta Key is described as a ‘comfortable oasis’ and a ‘quaint, cozy spot that feels tucked away while sitting right across from the beach.’ 

2. Brewster, Massachusetts

Brewster is said to provide both locals and visitors with ‘calm, swimmable beaches to enjoy all summer long,’ with kayaking and fishing among the other water-based options

Cape Cod in Massachusetts is home to a haul of popular beach towns, which the experts say are ‘known for their ‘provincial seaside charm.’ 

However, those looking to beat the crowds are advised to head to the town of Brewster, which is ‘equally charming’ as its peers ‘yet much less crowded.’

This town is said to provide both locals and visitors with ‘calm, swimmable beaches to enjoy all summer long,’ with kayaking and fishing among the other water-based options. 

Recommended land-based activities include the Cape Cod Rail Trail, The Brewster General Store and The Brewster Bookstore.

Where to stay: Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club is described as a ‘sprawling resort right along the soft beaches of Cape Cod that has boundless amenities and activities to revel in.’

3. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Along with ‘white, sugary sand and clear waters,’ the experts say that Gulf Shores in Alabama offers an abundance of nature

Along with ‘white, sugary sand and clear waters,’ the experts say that Gulf Shores in Alabama offers an abundance of nature. 

Visitors are encouraged to explore the Gulf State Park, which serves up 6,000 acres spanning the Alabama Gulf Coast and nine unique ecosystems.

After a day packed with hiking, biking and birding, the Time Out editors advise hitting the low-key bars and restaurants along the beach to replenish energy levels. 

For those looking for a more of a buzz come nightfall, they reveal: ‘Nearby Orange Beach (the two are often referred to as one area), offers a bit more in the way of dining and nightlife but is still just as calm (unless you decide to visit the Flora-Bama Lounge on the state line!).’

Where to stay: The Lodge at Gulf State Park is described as a ‘peaceful, and sustainable, option for enjoying both the beach and Gulf State Park.’

4. Dewey Beach, Delaware

Dewey Beach on the Delaware coast is described by the experts as a ‘laid-back surf town’ 

Dewey Beach on the Delaware coast is pitched by the experts as a ‘laid-back surf town’ offering ‘pristine beaches and party vibes.’

Surfing aside, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding are among the other most popular watersports.

After working up an appetite, the Time Out editors recommend ‘breakfast at The Dewey Post, beers at Dewey Beer Co. (trust us on the Strawberry Pretzel Salad beer), and late-night fun at The Rusty Rudder.’

This location is particularly convenient for those living in New York  Washington D.C., and Philadelphia, as all cities are around a 2.5 to 4 hour drive away.

Where to stay: The Surf Shanty Motel, the experts say, ‘maintains vintage charm harkening back to its 1970s roots’ despite recent renovations. Stays come with free bike hire, so you can ‘cruise around town’ and explore at your leisure.

5. Fairfield, Connecticut

Fairfield is described as a ‘scenic suburban town’ boasting five miles of beachfront land

Skirting the Long Island Sound, the experts describe Fairfield as a ‘scenic suburban town’ boasting five miles of beachfront land. 

With both private and public beaches, they reveal that the ‘sandy shores are primed for swimming, lounging, and walking.’

Visitors are advised to spend a day exploring the coastline by renting a sailboat.

Back on land, beach volleyball is a popular activity and there are ‘many’ summer bonfires to gather around with friends. Bonfire permits are available to reserve online via the town’s official website, with the bonfire season running from May 1 through September 30.

Where to stay: Delamar Southport is described as a ’boutique hotel that serves its customers with quintessential New England hospitality,’ and complimentary welcome drinks provide a further lure.

6. Florence, Oregon

Florence in Oregon is described as a ‘hidden gem with miles of beaches along the Pacific Ocean and the Siuslaw River’

Florence in Oregon is deemed as a ‘hidden gem’ with miles of picturesque beaches along the Pacific Ocean and the Siuslaw River.

Some of the activities on offer include horse-riding along the waterfront and dune buggy tours across the 40-mile-long Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.

Meanwhile, ‘an easy half-mile hike from the parking lot brings you to the picturesque and historic Heceta Head Lighthouse.’ 

The experts reveal that the best spot ‘for those who love secretive destinations,’ are the Sea Lion Caves and this network of sea caves and caverns is home to the largest sea cave in the U.S., which is ‘over 12 stories high and as wide as a football field.’

Where to stay: The Driftwood Shores Resort is said to offer ‘spectacular views’ from a lofty positioning overlooking Heceta Beach. Other perks include beach access and all rooms are ocean-facing to ‘catch those sunsets.’

7. Northport, New York

Northport is home to a ‘lovely downtown,’ peppered with ‘quirky boutiques’ and a good selection of seafood restaurants

While it is on the North Shore of Long Island – which was once known as the ‘Gold Coast’ of New York and the setting for The Great Gatsby – the experts reveal that Northport offers more of a laidback vibe. 

Some of the Victorian-era village’s highlights include a ‘lovely downtown,’ peppered with ‘quirky boutiques’ and a good selection of seafood restaurants.

Some of the recommended eateries include the Rockin’ Fish and the Harbor House, while Brew Cheese is one for beer and cheese lovers.

Away from the main street, Northport Bay come highly recommended for its ‘pristine’ waters which make it a perfect spot for watersports, boating and fishing, while the Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium is highlighted simply for its ‘opulent views.’

Where to stay: For a contemporary feel, the Time Out team advise trying the Northport Hotel but for ‘something historic, stay at The Harbor Rose Bed & Breakfast.’

8. Kailua, Hawaii

Lanikai Beach is ‘frequently ranked as one of the most beautiful in the world yet it’s mostly locals who frequent the slice of paradise’

Escape the throng of crowds on Waikiki Beach, by heading to Kailua on the windward side of Oahu.

The experts recommend basing yourself at Lanikai Beach, as it is ‘frequently ranked as one of the most beautiful in the world yet it’s mostly locals who frequent the slice of paradise.’

It can be accessed via Kailua Beach Park, ‘where you can also set up a picnic or grill steps away from the sand.’

If you don’t fancy a DIY meal, the travel pros recommend Buzz’s Original Steakhouse for punchy Tiki drinks while Kalapawai Market is outlined as a top place to ‘grab a quick bite and a strong cup of coffee to go.’

Where to stay: The ‘downside of being under the radar,’ the experts say, is that hotel options are very limited. In lieu of hotels, visitors are advised to seek out Airbnbs or ‘other short-term rentals,’ which mean you ‘truly get to live like a local.’

9. Goleta, California

Goleta in California serves up ‘sweeping sea vistas, soft sand and greenery’ 

Compared to neighboring Santa Barbara beaches, the travel pros say that Goleta is much less crowded. 

Some of the lures include ‘sweeping sea vistas, soft sand and greenery,’ while nature-lovers will be in their element as the estuary attracts great blue herons, coots, egrets, plovers, and more. 

You can set up camp for the day, with ‘lots’ of barbecue pits and restrooms scoring points on the convenience side if things.

At the end of September one of the biggest events is the Goleta Lemon Festival, which celebrates the area’s lemon growing history, while the annual Santa Barbara Old-Time Fiddlers’ Festival is another crowd-pleaser.

Where to stay: The experts recommend checking into Leta Santa Barbara Goleta, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. They note that it is currently undergoing renovation ‘with a light beach aesthetic, using natural materials.’ 

10. Jensen Beach, Florida

Jensen Beach in Florida is described as a ‘quiet, unincorporated community with a population of just over 12,000’

Jensen Beach, once known as the ‘Pineapple Capital of the World,’ is nestled on a slice of Florida’s southeast coast. The experts describe it as a ‘quiet, unincorporated community with a population of just over 12,000.’

They add that its positioning, ‘hugged by a barrier island and a coastal savanna reserve,’ make it a particularly picturesque spot. 

Visitors are advised to hit the scenic hiking trails, while the ’boutique resorts’ are also said to offer ‘sweeping views of the Atlantic.’ 

To keep your energy levels up, waterfront hotdog stand Fredgie’s comes highly recommended, with one of the specialties being the Fredgie’s Dog: a sausage ‘topped with peanut butter, chili and spicy mustard on a Texas toast bun.’

Where to stay: Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa, the experts say, ‘nails the coastal chic aesthetic, with herringbone wood floors, white-paneled walls, navy-striped upholstery and crisp white bedding.’ Amenities include two heated pools, a spa and watersports, while it’s also highlighted as a dog-friendly option.

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