As the summer begins to close it’s time to start thinking about planning a few trips this fall! This is the perfect time to book one of these soothing US coastal getaways, since the summer crowd is gone and there will still be a bit of leftover summer sun to enjoy the outdoors.
In the list below, I include a few great destinations to consider for your relaxing coastal getaway!
Where to travel to for soothing US coastal getaways?
St. Michaels, Maryland
If you’re looking for relaxing coastal getaway outside of Washington, D.C. consider heading about an hour and a half outside of the city to St. Michaels, MD. This quant coastal town is great destination for all types of water sports, fishing, and more. Indulge yourself in incredible restaurants, breweries, and wineries.
This is definitely a sleepy town and not meant for the usual party goer, but that doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy a relaxing and crowd-free seaside retreat in the US.
If you’re looking for a hotel, consider the luxurious Inn at Perry Cabin. Book through a travel advisor, like myself, to receive the following perks (as of April 2025):
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily breakfast credit of $45 per person, for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant and via in-room dining (credit is non-cumulative)
- $100USD equivalent Hotel or Resort credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Daufuskie Island, South Carolina
The more popular soothing US coastal getaways in South Carolina are Hilton Head, Charleston, or Myrtle Beach. However, another option that may not be as crowded is Daufuskie Island. This quiet island allows for calm activities such as boat tours, horseback riding, and calm beach days. This beautiful island is the southernmost inhabited island of South Carolina and the perfect spot for a relaxing coastal getaways.
Ojai, California
This small city outside of Los Angeles is one of the best places to go for relaxing coastal getaways. Ojai is known for its incredible landscapes, art scene, and rejuvenating retreats. This is the ideal trip for someone not looking for a lay on the beach vacay, but more of a holistic escape from the city. Explore the cute boutique shops downtown and try some of the incredible vegan meals at places like Hip Vegan.
If you’re looking for a hotel, consider the luxurious Ojai Valley Inn. Book through a travel advisor, like myself, to receive the following perks (as of April 2025):
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
- $100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Pacific Grove, California
If you’re someone who wants to go to Carmel-by-the-Sea, but you’re looking for one of the most soothing US coastal getaways, consider Pacific Grove in California. You’ll have the option of staying in Pacific Grove, but you can still drive into Carmel-by-the-Sea to experience all of the action there.
Pacific Grove offers beautiful views, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Natural History museum. And if you’re in PG you can’t skip Asilomar Beach!
Cape May Point, New Jersey
As a Jersey girl myself, going to the shore you’ll either get a peaceful beach vacation or crazy party vibe. But if you’re looking for a relaxing Coastal getaway, Cape May point could be a great option. It’s close to the action of Wildwood and Cape May, but the beaches there may be a bit quieter. Also, fun fact, there’s a greater chance of seeing dolphins at Cape May Point!
Block Island, Rhode Island
Block Island is a recent discovery of mine and while it may be the go-to relaxing coastal getaway for some, I’m excited to check this off of my list. Block Island has a host of relaxing activities such as bike tours, opportunities to learn a bit of history at the Block Island Historical Society, or even just relax at at any of the quiet beaches.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
This fairy-tale coastal town features white sand beaches, cypress trees, art galleries, and storybook cottages. I’ve been reading about this place and hope to visit soon! I hear it’s very dog friendly (even with a few dog friendly beaches) so I plan to bring my dog along too!
There’s strict building codes that require all buildings to have a specific European style, which makes it even more of a magical place to be. In terms of activities there’s plenty to do including a few wine tours!
Door County, Wisconsin
Not everyone is a beach person, so another option for a soothing US coastal getaway is Door County, Wisconsin aka the “Cape Cod of the midwest”. Along Lake Michigan’s shores, this peninsula offers charming coastal towns, lighthouses, cherry orchards, and a distinctly peaceful Midwestern lake culture that feels refreshingly different from ocean destinations.
Here you’ll find a host of lake activities but there’s also apple orchards, state parks, art galleries, antique shops and more. It’s the perfect option for a more tranquil waterfront.
Mendocino, California
Located three hours north of San Francisco and perched on dramatic coastal cliffs, this Victorian village offers breathtaking ocean vistas, charming B&Bs, and excellent hiking trails through redwood forests that meet the sea
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Last, but of course not least, MV (in the fall and spring) offers quiet beaches, rolling farmland, and quaint fishing villages like Menemsha. Of course it has so much to offer such as seaside dining, secluded beaches, and more. The best time to visit this relaxing coastal getaway is for sure during the shoulder seaons.