Looking for a romantic seaside escape to reset from a stressful workweek? I’ve been there. I lived in NYC for 10 years, and anytime I needed to breathe, I’d pack a bag and head for the coast. You should too—you won’t regret it. After 25 years of travel writing, I can tell you these beaches in the Northeast are where natural beauty meets coastal charm. They’ve given me some of my most peaceful, joy-filled moments—and I think they’ll do the same for you.
Highlights:
- Stroll the golden sands of Ogunquit Beach in Maine—I’ve walked this beach more times than I can count. You’ll love ending the evening dining by the Marginal Way.
- Relax at Cape Cod’s Coast Guard Beach. I always find the gentle surf and sweeping dunes so calming—you’ll feel the stress disappear.
- Explore Rhode Island’s Watch Hill Beach. I go here when I want something upscale but still quiet. You’ll find charm around every corner.
- Visit Rehoboth Beach in Delaware for some classic boardwalk fun. I’ve watched many romantic sunsets here—and you should too.
- Discover the wild, undeveloped beauty of Fire Island National Seashore in New York. I used to escape here when I lived in the city—it still feels like another world.
Best Beaches in the Northeast:
Long Beach - Long Island - 1-hour drive from Manhattan - Walk the lively boardwalk and enjoy swimming in calm waters.
Boothbay Harbor - 1 hour from Portland, ME - Explore charming waterfront shops and enjoy scenic boat tours.
Madison - 30 minutes from New Haven - Relax on sandy beaches and explore quaint New England charm.
Coopers Beach - 2 hours from NYC by car or train - Enjoy soft white sands and admire views of historic mansions.
Block Island - Rhode Island - 1-hour ferry ride - Hike scenic trails and explore dramatic coastal bluffs.
Misquamicut State Beach - 2.5 hours from Boston - Swim in gentle waves and enjoy family-friendly amenities.
Wingaersheek Beach - 40 miles northeast of Boston - Explore tide pools and relax on soft sandy shores.
Old Orchard Beach - 1.5-hour drive from Boston - Ride thrilling amusement park rides and walk the bustling pier.
Weirs Beach, NH - 2-hour drive from Boston - Swim in Lake Winnipesaukee and enjoy vibrant boardwalk attractions.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Long Beach - Long Island - 1-hour drive from Manhattan
- • Boothbay Harbor - 1 hour from Portland, ME
- • Madison - 30 minutes from New Haven
- • Coopers Beach - 2 hours from NYC by car or train
- • Block Island - Rhode Island - 1-hour ferry ride
- • Misquamicut State Beach - 2.5 hours from Boston
- • Wingaersheek Beach - 40 miles northeast of Boston
- • Old Orchard Beach - 1.5-hour drive from Boston
- • Weirs Beach, NH - 2-hour drive from Boston