The United States has close to 4,000 miles of coastline in the Lower 48.
That means one thing: there are hidden gem beach towns in more places than you might imagine. While mainstays like Myrtle Beach, San Diego, and Miami are absolutely worth the hype, what about those smaller, unsung heroes?
If you’re on the hunt for hidden gem beach towns around the United States where you can bet on affordable rates, fewer crowds, and unexpected adventures, here’s where to start.
Hidden gem beach towns around the US
- History in the Low Country: St. Simon’s Island, Georgia
- Style on the West Coast: Pismo Beach, California
- An alternative beach up north: Machiasport, Maine
- The quiet pick: Matagorda, Texas
Hidden gem beach towns around the US
St Simon’s Island, Georgia
St. Simon’s Island is a well-known quantity in Georgia—but anyone who doesn’t know much about the Low Country might not be aware. St. Simon’s Island is a picturesque barrier island about an hour south of Savannah. Think: scores of wild oak trees covered in Spanish moss that lead to the coastline.
You can wander along wide-open beaches, go on kayak tours, and explore historic sites that date back centuries. (The island was first settled by Spanish colonists in the 1500s.) The island’s tourism authority also has a few cool projects. Stop in at the Visitor’s Center to see what activities are on for the week. You can spot the island’s ‘Tree Spirits’, which were carved into trees around the island.
I also recommend stopping at the Savannah Bee Company Meadery on main street and sampling a flight of mead—you know, the alcoholic honey-made drinks that you might associate with Ren Fairs.
Find a hotel or rental on St. Simon’s Island.
Pismo Beach, California
Pismo Beach is a small beach town located right between San Francisco and Los Angeles on California’s Central Coast. The Central Coast rarely gets enough attention—and Pismo Beach is one of its hidden gems. You’ve got classic coastal vibes thanks to its long, white-sand beaches and its beloved pier, which are perfect for catching the sunsets while grabbing a bite to eat. (You might even spot a humpback whale, if you’re lucky.)
But Pismo Beach also has a strong sense of community. The city hosts annual events like the World Dog Surfing Championships, pop-up markets, and even car shows. Just outside the city, you can also enjoy world-class wineries and golf courses.
If you’re more intrepid, you can check out some of Pismo Beach’s more adventurous pursuits. Surfing and bodyboarding are popular, but you can even find ATV rentals for the area’s sand dunes.
Find a hotel or rental in Pismo Beach.
Machiasport (Jasper Beach), Maine
Jasper Beach is a pebble beach in the town of Machiasport, Maine. You can use Machiasport as a home base while you explore the area, including Jasper Beach. Locals love it for the calming sound of the waves hitting the rocky shore, which has earned it the nickname ‘the singing shore’.
It’s a lovely hidden gem for beach-lovers who are looking for a more rugged experience. (Geology fans will also appreciate the spread of rhyolite and jasper rocks on the beach.) It’s also a pet-friendly beach where you’ll find dogs enjoying the wide-open space and water.
As with St. Simon’s Island, you can also dive deep into the area’s history. Machiasport was founded in 1633 by the Plymouth Company. It was an important site during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812, which you can learn about at Fort O’Brien State Historic Site.
Find a hotel or rental around Machiasport.
Matagorda, Texas
While most people know about South Padre Island, Texas has more to offer in terms of coastal gems. Matagorda is a quiet, historic town where the Colorado River opens to the Gulf of Mexico. It’s home to wide, sandy beaches where you can spot wildlife and sink into a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. If you enjoy birding and fishing, you’ll have plenty to enjoy in Matagorda thanks to its estuaries.
In town, you can find great seafood eats and a laidback, community-focused atmosphere. Just know that there isn’t much to do, similar to Machiasport. You’ll do well if you like to drop off the map for a while, but you might get bored if you’re expecting nightlife or big-city vibes. (The area gets busier in summer, but is usually quiet in spring and fall.)
Alternatively, if you enjoy camping, you’ll have plenty of space to set up your tent and kayaks before striking out into the area’s wildlife-laden marshes. You can also book fishing charters, as the area is home to sought-after species like flounder.
Find a hotel or rental in Matagorda.