There is just something about the salty sea air and the ocean breeze that instantly relaxes and transforms. Therefore, visiting beaches and their surrounding towns has always been a favorite pastime for nearly every American.
When planning your next beach getaway, consider the best beach towns you will want to experience for yourself and what makes them so great:
San Diego
Bluewater Vacation Homes Vacation Rentals | Property Name: Neptune's Jewel
San Diego is a fun beach town that truly has it all, from classic surf vibes, upscale dining, year-round sunshine, and more than 70 miles of coastline to explore. It ranges from the lively boardwalk energy of Pacific Beach to the sculpted coves and upscale boutiques of La Jolla, with something genuinely worthwhile at every stop in between.
The coastal culture here is real and lived-in, shaped by generations of surfers, sailors, and sun-seekers who made this city what it is. Parking varies by location, with some locations offering free parking and others paid options; the Port of San Diego offers free parking at Imperial Beach. Lifeguards are on duty year-round at most major beaches.
Top Things To Do & Experience
- Surfing at Pacific Beach or Ocean Beach — Both are great spots for surfing with consistent breaks and rental shops and lessons available right on the sand. Pacific Beach has a more social, lively atmosphere while Ocean Beach is a bit more local and low-key. Either way, the waves and the beach scene are worth a visit.
- Balboa Park — Balboa Park is home to 17 museums, the San Diego Zoo, beautiful gardens, and miles of walking paths, all free to access, with paid admission for individual attractions. It is one of the best urban parks in the country, and it is easy to spend a full day exploring.
- La Jolla Cove is a protected marine area with clear water that is popular for snorkeling and kayaking. Sea lions are a common sight on the rocks, and the surrounding cliffs and sea caves make it a scenic spot even for those who just want to walk around and take in the views.
Carmel by the Sea
Photo Credit: @Carmel by the Sea Tourism
This charming beach town is known for its quaint cottages, art galleries (over 80), and European-style architecture, which creates a fairy-tale-like ambience. The streets are lined with windswept cypress trees and more than 80 art galleries, and the white-sand beach at the bottom of Ocean Avenue is as beautiful as any in California. The Carmel River and nearby state parks are ideal for birdwatching, kayaking, and hiking. Lifeguard services are not provided at Carmel-by-the-Sea, so swimmers should use their own judgment. Street parking is available throughout the village, though weekends fill quickly.
Top Things To Do & Experience
- Carmel River State Beach — Carmel River State Beach sits just south of the village and includes a protected lagoon that is a great spot for birdwatching, kayaking, and easy walks along the water. It tends to be quieter than the main beach and offers a nice change of scenery for those spending more than a day in town.
- 17-Mile Drive — The 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach is a scenic coastal route that passes by famous landmarks such as the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach Golf Links. There is a small entry fee per vehicle, but the views along the way, especially at Spanish Bay around sunset, make it a worthwhile stop.
- Ocean Avenue gallery hopping — With over 80 galleries along its short stretch of shops and streets, Carmel is a great town for browsing art. The galleries range from traditional landscape paintings to contemporary photography and sculpture, and most are open and welcoming to casual visitors.
Hilton Head
BESTNEST by Beverly Serral Vacation Rentals | Property Name: 15 Bald Eagle
Hilton Head s a popular destination best known for its world-class golf — there are over 20 courses on and near the island. But it has plenty to offer beyond golf, including 12 miles of wide, clean beach, over 60 miles of paved biking trails, great water sports, and a strong dining and shopping scene. The Lowcountry landscape surrounding the island, with its tidal creeks and marshes, is a big part of the appeal. Most beach parking requires a fee, though a few free options exist. Lifeguards are on duty at the main beach areas during peak season.
Top Things To Do & Experience
- Salty Dog Cafe at South Beach Marina — The Salty Dog is a Hilton Head landmark — a waterfront restaurant and bar at South Beach Marina where cold drinks, fresh seafood, and a genuinely relaxed atmosphere have made it one of the most beloved spots on the island for decades. I
- Kayaking the tidal creek system — The maze of tidal creeks surrounding Hilton Head is best explored by kayak, where dolphins, osprey, and great blue herons are reliable company, and the cordgrass marshes open up into stunning, quiet waterways that most visitors never see. Several outfitters run guided sunset tours that rank among the most beautiful ways to end a day anywhere in the South.
- Old Town Bluffton Saturday Market — Just a short drive from Hilton Head, the charming historic district of Bluffton hosts a weekly farmers market with local produce, artisan goods, and exceptional Lowcountry food vendors that give a much more authentic taste of the region than the resort corridor.
30A
Property Name: Soleil at Seagrove
The unique 30A beach town stretch of highway along Florida's Emerald Coast that connects a series of small, distinct beach communities, each with its own character. Towns like Seaside, Rosemary Beach, WaterColor, and Grayton Beach all sit along this corridor, offering a mix of boutique shopping, great dining, and some of the best beaches in Florida. The sugar-white sand and clear green water are consistent throughout, and the area is very walkable and bikeable with a relaxed, year-round summer vibe. Many 30A beaches offer parking, though it fills quickly in summer. Seasonal lifeguards are employed at several of the more popular beaches.
Top Things To Do:
- Grayton Beach State Park — Grayton Beach State Park is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the US, with pristine white sand, clear water, and nature trails running through coastal scrub habitat. It is less developed than many nearby beaches, which keeps it quieter and more relaxed.
- Seaside town center — Seaside is a beautifully designed pedestrian-friendly community with a central amphitheater, open-air vendors, and independent shops and restaurants. It is well known as the filming location for The Truman Show and is genuinely enjoyable to walk through, even without a specific destination in mind.
- Paddling the coastal dune lakes — The freshwater dune lakes tucked behind the sand dunes along 30A are a rare natural feature in Florida, and paddling them by kayak or paddleboard is a fun and easy outing. Western Lake at Grayton Beach is one of the more accessible options, and the calm water makes it a good choice for beginners.
Newport Beach
Newport Beach Vacation Properties | Property Name:
Newport Beach is built around one of the largest recreational boat harbors on the Pacific Coast, and the water is central to everything that happens here. The city is divided into several villages, from the lively boardwalk of the Balboa Peninsula to the quieter, more residential feel of Corona del Mar, each worth exploring on its own. Yachts, waterfront restaurants, and great ocean views are all part of the everyday scene here. Parking is available via metered street spaces and paid lots near the beach. Lifeguards are on duty year-round, which is unusual among California beach cities.
Top Things To Do:
- Duffy boat tour of the harbor — Renting a small electric Duffy boat is one of the most enjoyable ways to spend an afternoon in Newport Beach. No boating experience is required, and the route takes you past waterfront homes, moored yachts, and Balboa Island at a relaxed pace that is perfect for taking it all in.
- Crystal Cove State Park — Crystal Cove offers over three miles of undeveloped coastline with good tide pools, hiking trails along the bluffs, and a collection of restored 1930s beach cottages that can be rented overnight. It is a quieter and more natural alternative to the main Newport Beach crowd.
- Balboa Island — Balboa Island is a short ferry ride from the peninsula and makes for a fun half-day outing. The bay-front promenade is pleasant to walk, the shops and restaurants along Marine Avenue are easy to browse, and the Balboa Bar a chocolate-dipped frozen banana that has been made here since the 1940s which is a must-try.
Cannon Beach
Beachcomber Vacation Homes Vacation Rentals | Property Name: Pacific Knoll
Cannon Beach, Oregon, is one of the most scenic spots on the Oregon Coast and one of the best beach towns for wildlife viewing. It is best known for Haystack Rock, a 235-foot basalt sea stack rising directly from the surf that is also a protected seabird colony. The town itself is small and walkable, with a good mix of galleries, bookshops, and restaurants. Wildlife commonly spotted here includes tufted puffins, sea lions, seals, and gray and humpback whales during migration season. Public parking areas are available near the beach but fill quickly in summer. Lifeguards patrol from mid-June through Labor Day and on weekends in May and September.
Top Things To Do:
- Haystack Rock tide pools — At low tide, the base of Haystack Rock is filled with sea stars, anemones, hermit crabs, and other marine life that is fun to explore up close. Volunteer naturalists are on-site during low tide to help visitors identify what they are looking at, and checking the tide tables ahead of time will help you get the most out of the visit.
- Wildlife and whale watching — Tufted puffins nest on the offshore sea stacks from April through August and can be spotted returning to the rocks in the evening. Gray and humpback whales migrate along this stretch of coast in spring and fall, and a good pair of binoculars from the beach is often all you need to catch a sighting.
- Ecola State Park — Ecola State Park sits just north of town and offers some of the best coastal hiking on the Oregon Coast, with forested trails leading to cliff-top viewpoints above the surf. The hike down to Indian Beach is a local favorite and a good option for those who want a bit more exercise along with the scenery.
Provincetown
Photo Credit: @ptowntourism
Provincetown sits at the very tip of Cape Cod and is perhaps best known for being one of the most welcoming LGBTQ+ destinations in the country. It also has a long history as an artists' colony and a rich maritime past that you can feel throughout the town. The natural setting is varied and interesting, with calm harbor waters on one side, open Atlantic dunes on the other, and the town itself is compact, walkable, and full of galleries, restaurants, and good energy. Paid parking is required near the beaches. Lifeguards are on duty seasonally and end their service on Labor Day.
Top Things To Do:
- Cape Cod National Seashore dune tours — The Province Lands dunes just outside of town are a striking stretch of open sand and low scrub vegetation that makes for a very different landscape than the rest of Cape Cod. Guided ATV tours are a popular way to explore them, and the history of the area's dune shacks and the artists who used them adds an interesting layer to the experience.
- Commercial Street galleries — Provincetown has been an active artists' community since the early 1900s, and the galleries along Commercial Street reflect that history with a strong and varied selection of work. Styles range from traditional seascape paintings to contemporary photography and mixed media, and most galleries are open and free to browse.
- Whale watching from MacMillan Pier — Whale watching tours out of Provincetown are well regarded for the frequency and variety of sightings, thanks to the rich feeding grounds in the waters nearby. Humpbacks, finbacks, and minkes are regularly seen, and the naturalists on board provide good information throughout the trip.
Gulf Shores
Beachball Properties Vacation Rentals| Propery Name: Almost Heaven
Gulf Shores is a pleasant, family-friendly beach town with beautiful white-sand beaches and warm Gulf waters that are great for swimming and water sports from spring through fall. It is known for outdoor activities like dolphin cruises, jet skiing, snorkeling, and hiking, as well as excellent fresh seafood. The Southern hospitality here is genuine, making it a welcoming destination for all kinds of travelers. Most parking lots for Gulf Shore beaches do require a fee. Lifeguards are on duty from March to October.
Top Things To Do:
- Dolphin cruises — Dolphin sightings are very common in the warm, shallow water around Gulf Shores, and local operators run morning and sunset cruises that reliably deliver up-close encounters. It is a fun outing for families and a good way to see the coastline from the water.
- Gulf State Park — Gulf State Park covers a large stretch of coastal land with 28 miles of trails running through wetlands, pine forest, and along 2.5 miles of undeveloped beach. It is a great spot for hiking, birding, and getting away from the more commercial stretch of the shore.
- Fresh Gulf seafood — The seafood in Gulf Shores is fresh and good, with local restaurants serving Gulf shrimp, oysters, red snapper, and more that comes straight from the surrounding waters. The Shrimp Basket is a local favorite, and the waterfront dining spots at the Wharf are a lively place to eat and enjoy the marina atmosphere.
Chincoteague
Seaside Vacations & Sales Vacation Rentals | Property Name: Gallop's Point
Chincoteague is a small, relaxed island community on Virginia's Eastern Shore best known for its wild ponies, the famous herd that roams freely on adjacent Assateague Island. Beyond the ponies, it offers beautiful undeveloped beaches, great seafood, and a laid-back atmosphere built around fishing, crabbing, and being outdoors. It is a quiet, unhurried kind of beach destination that is genuinely off the beaten path. Getting to the beach requires passing through the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which charges an entrance fee. Lifeguard coverage can be inconsistent due to staffing challenges, though some coverage is provided during summer.
Top Things To Do:
- Wild pony spotting in the Wildlife Refuge — The Assateague ponies roam freely through the marshes and meadows of the refuge and can often be spotted from the Wildlife Loop road, which is open to cyclists and walkers at all hours. Early-morning and late-afternoon visits tend to produce the best sightings.
- Assateague Island beach — Assateague's undeveloped Atlantic beach is wide, clean, and refreshingly free of commercial development. It is a great spot for swimming, surf fishing, and shell collecting, and the lack of crowds compared to more developed barrier-island beaches is a big part of its appeal.
- Fresh Chincoteague oysters — Chincoteague oysters are well known among seafood lovers for their clean, briny flavor, which reflects the quality of the bay water they are raised in. Several waterfront spots serve them fresh on the half shell, and sitting outside with a dozen and a cold drink is one of the simple pleasures of a visit here.
Tybee Island
Tybee Island is Savannah's beach, just 18 miles from the city, and it has a personality all its own. It is a small, easygoing community that is internationally recognized for its food scene, with locally owned restaurants and cafes serving everything from classic Low Country cooking to globally inspired dishes. The island is also home to the Tybee Island Lighthouse, one of Georgia's most visited landmarks. The overall atmosphere here is relaxed and unpretentious, and having Savannah nearby makes it an easy destination to pair with a city trip. There is no free parking on Tybee Island, but public lots are easy to find and access. Lifeguards are on duty seasonally.
Top Things To Do:
- Tybee Island Lighthouse — The Tybee Lighthouse has been standing since 1736 and at 154 feet is the tallest in Georgia. Climbing to the top offers good views of the island, the marsh, and the Atlantic, and the adjacent museum and keeper's cottage fill in the history of the station nicely.
- Day trip to Savannah — Savannah is only 18 miles from Tybee and is well worth at least a day trip. The historic district is walkable and beautiful, with shaded squares, great architecture, and a strong restaurant and bar scene along Broughton Street and in the surrounding neighborhoods.
- Kayaking the salt marshes — Guided kayak tours through the tidal creeks and salt marshes around the island offer a completely different side of Tybee from what you see on the beach. Dolphins are commonly spotted, the birding is excellent, and the tours are well run and accessible for paddlers of all experience levels.
Key West
The beach town of Key West is known for its nightlife, unique Bohemian atmosphere, and beautiful beaches and ocean water. The Old Town portion boasts charming architecture and is home to Duval Street and Mallory Square, which are made famous by its street performers. Key West is also part of the rich history of Key Lime Pie. Parking is limited on the small island and what is available does require a fee. There are no lifeguards on duty at Key West beaches.
Miami
Photo Credit: @antoniocuellar
Miami is one of the most well-known beach destinations in the world, and it earns its reputation. The Art Deco Historic District along Ocean Drive is a striking stretch of 1930s architecture painted in bright pastels, and the Latin culture that runs through the city shapes the food, music, and nightlife, making Miami Beach feel like a place with real identity. The beach is wide, well-maintained, and backed by an energetic urban environment with no shortage of things to do. Parking is available at garages and metered street spots throughout the city, though free parking is genuinely hard to come by. Miami employs over 130 full and part-time lifeguards across the beach.
Top Things To Do:
- Ocean Drive Art Deco walking tour — The Miami Design Preservation League offers guided tours through the Art Deco Historic District, bringing the architecture and history of Ocean Drive to life. Even without a guide, walking the district early in the morning before crowds arrive is a great way to appreciate the buildings at your own pace.
- Wynwood Walls — Wynwood Walls transformed a former warehouse neighborhood into an open-air gallery of large-scale murals by well-known street artists from around the world. The surrounding area has grown up around it with restaurants, shops, and independent galleries that make the whole neighborhood worth spending a few hours in.
- South Beach dining — The restaurant scene in South Beach is diverse and excellent, ranging from Cuban spots and neighborhood cafes to well-regarded fine-dining establishments. A visit to Little Havana, just a short drive away, is worthwhile for anyone who wants to dive into the Latin culinary culture central to Miami's identity.
Folly Beach
Dunes Properties | Property Name: Seashell's Folly
Folly Beach has earned its nickname “Mayberry by the Sea” through a combination of friendly locals, a genuinely relaxed atmosphere, and a community identity shaped by surfers, musicians, and artists over many years. The 12-mile barrier island offers a wide variety of things to do, from the scenic marshland and kayaking at the western end to the popular Washout surf area at the east, which has become a gathering spot for the local creative community. It is considered Charleston South Carolina’s “favorite summer playground” and is close enough to the city to make a day trip easy. Folly Beach has both free and paid parking options, and seasonal lifeguards are stationed at the main beach access points.
Top Things To Do:
- Surfing at The Washout — The Washout is the center of Folly Beach's surf community, with consistent waves and a friendly crowd that makes it a good spot for surfers of all levels. Surf schools operate here, and the general atmosphere on the beach tends to be social and welcoming.
- Kayaking the tidal creeks — The marshes and creeks bordering the island are a great place to kayak, with dolphin sightings common along the route. The Morris Island Lighthouse, now standing offshore after the island around it eroded away, makes for a striking and interesting landmark to paddle toward.
- Day trip to Charleston — Downtown Charleston is only 20 minutes from Folly Beach and is one of the best cities in the South for a day of walking around. The historic neighborhoods, great restaurants along King Street, and the general character of the city make it an easy and rewarding addition to any Folly Beach trip.
Sullivan's Island
Stay Duvet Vacation Rentals| Property Name: Mint Julep
Sullivan's Island is a close-knit residential beach community just outside Charleston and the Isle of Palms, offering 3.5 miles of clean, relatively uncrowded beach and a genuinely laid-back atmosphere. It is dog-friendly and well-suited for biking and paddleboarding, and the lack of big resort development keeps it feeling like an actual neighborhood rather than a tourist destination. The island is also home to Fort Moultrie and the well-known Charleston Lighthouse, giving it more historical depth than most beach communities of its size. Parking is generally free via public right-of-way spots throughout the island, just watch for no-parking signs and avoid blocking access paths or driveways. There are no lifeguards on Sullivan's Island beaches.
Top Things To Do:
- Fort Moultrie National Historical Park — Fort Moultrie covers over 170 years of American coastal defense history, from its role in the Revolutionary War through to World War II. The site is compact enough to see in a couple of hours but covers a broad and interesting stretch of American history, including the island's significant role in the transatlantic slave trade.
- Paddleboarding on the harbor side — The calm water of Charleston Harbor on the north side of the island is a great spot for paddleboarding, with views across to Fort Sumter and the Charleston skyline. Rentals are available without advance booking, and dolphin sightings in the harbor are common.
- Biking the island — Sullivan's Island is flat and easy to get around by bike, with a dedicated path running the length of the island along Middle Street. The residential streets are quiet and pleasant, and the path connects to Isle of Palms for those who want to extend the ride.
Kauai
The Parrish Collection Kauai Vacation Rentals| Property Name: Kauai Kai
The beach town of Kauai is nicknamed the “garden isle” known for its immense natural beauty, dramatic sea cliffs, lush interior, and a mix of beautiful beaches ranging from the sunny, calm waters of Poipu Beach on the south shore to the stunning Hanalei Bay on the north. It is generally quieter and less developed than Oahu or Maui, which is a big part of its appeal for visitors who want a more relaxed Hawaiian experience. Swimming and snorkeling are popular throughout the island. Parking and lifeguard availability depend on the beach; more popular spots like Poipu have both, while more remote beaches may have neither.
Top Things To Do:
- Na Pali Coast by boat — The best way to see the Na Pali Coast's towering sea cliffs is from the water. Morning catamaran and raft tours run along the cliffs and typically include snorkeling stops in sheltered coves. Spinner dolphins are commonly spotted alongside the boats throughout the trip.
- Snorkeling at Poipu Beach — Poipu Beach has been consistently ranked one of the best beaches in the US and offers good snorkeling year-round around its rocky point. Hawaiian green sea turtles are a regular presence in the shallows, and the beach is well set up with facilities and lifeguards.
- Waimea Canyon — Known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon is 10 miles long and over 3,600 feet deep, with striking views from several lookout points along the rim road. Hiking trails descend into the canyon for those who want to get off the road and explore further.
Wrightsville Beach
Sea Scape Properties | Property Name: Islander 7c
Wrightsville Beach is widely considered the best spot on the North Carolina coast for water sports, with excellent and consistent conditions for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. The island has a genuine neighborhood feel despite its growing popularity, and it has attracted extra attention as a filming location for shows Outer Banks and The Summer I Turned Pretty. It is also home to the only concrete fishing pier in North Carolina. Parking is primarily paid throughout the island, and lifeguard services are seasonal.
Top Things To Do:
- Stand-up paddleboarding on the Intracoastal Waterway — The protected water of the Intracoastal Waterway along the west side of the island is calm and ideal for paddleboarding, especially for beginners. Several outfitters offer rentals and lessons right on the waterway, and the route north toward Mason Inlet is a scenic option for those who want a longer paddle.
- Johnnie Mercer's Fishing Pier — North Carolina's only concrete fishing pier stretches 1,000 feet into the Atlantic and is a good spot for fishing, taking in the ocean view, and watching the surf. Spanish mackerel, flounder, and bluefish are commonly caught here, and the pier is open to non-anglers as well.
- Surfing Wrightsville's breaks — Wrightsville Beach has been a surf destination since the 1960s, and the breaks around the island's inlets are reliable by East Coast standards. Surf schools run beginner lessons throughout the summer, and the beach break near the pier is accessible and enjoyable for intermediate riders.
Tamarindo
Tamarindo has grown from a small fishing village into one of the most popular surf destinations in Central America, but it has held onto the lively, diverse energy that drew people there in the first place. It is still most famous for its surfing, though the surrounding Guanacaste region also offers great wildlife experiences, sea turtle nesting, howler monkeys, and crocodile tours, which make it a well-rounded destination beyond just the beach. Street parking is widely available, though unofficial attendants known as “guachimans” may approach for payment; official paid lots are the more reliable option. Lifeguards are on duty daily from 9am to 5pm.
Top Things To Do:
- Surfing at Playa Tamarindo — Playa Tamarindo has rolling, sandy-bottom waves that are well suited for beginners, and the town has plenty of surf schools with experienced instructors. More advanced surfers can head north to Playa Grande or take a boat trip to Witch's Rock in Santa Rosa National Park for longer, more powerful waves.
- Sea turtle nesting at Las Baulas National Marine Park — Las Baulas, just next door to Tamarindo on Playa Grande, is an important nesting site for giant leatherback sea turtles. Small-group nighttime tours run from October through March with strict guidelines to minimize disturbance, and seeing a leatherback come ashore to nest is hard to forget.
- Sunset catamaran tour — Catamaran tours out of Tamarindo combine snorkeling stops above coastal reefs with great views of the Pacific coastline at sunset. Dolphins are regularly seen alongside the boats, and the trips typically include food and drinks, making them a popular and easy way to spend an afternoon.
Los Cabos
Escape to Cabo Vacation Rentals | Property Name: Palmilla Lux
Los Cabos sits at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, creating a setting that is both scenic and excellent for water activities. The destination is best known for its iconic El Arco rock arch at Land's End, as well as world-class deep-sea fishing, whale watching, snorkeling, and a lively nightlife scene. There is also good golf and a gallery and restaurant corridor in San José del Cabo for those who want something a bit different. Parking is available in public lots and on the street near major beaches. El Medano Beach is considered the safest swimming option, with calm water and consistent lifeguard patrols.
Top Things To Do:
- Snorkeling at El Arco — Glass-bottom boat and snorkel tours around the El Arco rock formation give you a good look at the sea lions resting on the nearby rocks and the colorful fish in the clear water below. The area where the two currents meet creates a concentrated marine environment that makes for a very active snorkeling experience.
- Deep-sea fishing in the Sea of Cortez — Cabo San Lucas has a long reputation as a top sportfishing destination, with striped marlin, yellowfin tuna, and mahi-mahi all running offshore. Charter operators of all sizes line the marina, and even a half-day trip on a smaller boat tends to produce good results.
- Whale watching (December through April) — Pacific gray whales pass through the waters around Los Cabos each winter on their migration, and guided tours from December through April regularly deliver solid sightings. Humpbacks and blue whales are also seen in the deeper offshore water during this season.
Bahamas
The Good Life Bahamas | Property Name: Sueno De Mar
The Bahamas is a beach destination best known for its beautiful clear water, white sand beaches, and a wide range of activities and experiences across its many islands. Nassau and Paradise Island offer resorts, casinos, and nightlife, while the Exumas and Out Islands provide a much quieter, more remote experience. The water throughout the Bahamas is famously clear and vivid, NASA astronaut Scott Kelly as “the most beautiful place from space.” . Popular activities include snorkeling, diving, swimming with pigs at Big Major Cay, and exploring the towns and local cuisine. Parking is available at major tourist areas like Atlantis and in Nassau. Lifeguards are present at the more popular beaches.
Top Things To Do:
- Swimming with the pigs at Big Major Cay — The swimming pigs of Exuma have become one of the most popular and talked-about experiences in the Bahamas a group of wild pigs living on a small uninhabited island who swim out to greet boats. Tour operators from Staniel Cay run visits throughout the day, and going early in the morning makes for a more relaxed experience.
- Snorkeling in the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park — The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park has been protected since 1958 and the marine life here reflects that the reefs are healthy, the water is clear, and nurse sharks, sea turtles, and reef fish are all commonly encountered. It is one of the better snorkeling destinations in the Caribbean.
- Exploring Nassau's historic district — Nassau's downtown is worth exploring beyond the cruise ship areas, with colonial architecture in pastel colors, the hand-carved Queen's Staircase, and the National Museum of the Bahamas. The fish fry at Arawak Cay just west of the waterfront is the best spot for fresh conch salad and fried fish the way locals actually eat it.
Best Beach Towns
Los Cabos | Property from Escape to Cabo
Choose any of the above options for a great experience when visiting a beach town. Each one of them offers a different experience but all unique and inviting. When making plans to make new memories or visit uncharted regions, considered one of the best beach towns, explore the list outlined above.
