11 Best East Coast Destinations with Mountains Near the Beach
Nestled along the picturesque East Coast of the United States is a collection of destinations that offer a perfect blend of majestic mountain ranges and stunning sandy beaches. This article delves into the enchanting world of East Coast destinations where the mountains meet the sea, creating a diverse and captivating landscape for travelers to explore.
From the rolling peaks of the Appalachian Mountains to the tranquil shores of the Atlantic Ocean, these destinations promise a harmonious fusion of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, charming coastal towns, and culinary delights. Join us on a journey to discover the 11 best East Coast destinations that combine the allure of mountains near the serenity of the beach.
Here are the top east coast spots with mountains near the beach:
1. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park in Maine is the perfect East Coast destination for those looking to experience the best of both worlds: mountains and beaches. Nestled on the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean while surrounded by towering peaks like Cadillac Mountain.
Visitors can enjoy hiking along scenic trails with panoramic ocean views, or relax on one of the park’s many beaches. You can even take a dip in the chilly waters if you’re feeling adventurous!
The charming town of Bar Harbor nearby offers quaint shops, delicious seafood restaurants, and cozy bed and breakfasts for those looking to extend their stay.
2. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts is a picturesque East Coast destination known for its charming beaches and stunning mountainous terrain. One of the island’s most iconic natural features is the Martha’s Vineyard State Forest, which offers hiking trails leading up to beautiful panoramic views of both the mountains and the ocean.
Visitors can spend their days lounging on the sandy shores of South Beach or taking a leisurely bike ride through rolling hills dotted with vineyards. The quaint towns of Edgartown and Oak Bluffs provide charming shops, restaurants, and galleries to explore after a day of outdoor adventure.
3. Block Island, Rhode Island
Block Island in Rhode Island is a hidden gem on the East Coast with mountains near the beach that offer stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Hiking trails like Mohegan Bluffs and Clay Head Preserve provide panoramic vistas of the ocean, while beaches like Mansion Beach and Ballard’s Beach offer peaceful relaxation and swimming opportunities.
The island is also home to Southeast Lighthouse, a historic landmark perched atop expansive cliffs, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can explore charming shops, eateries, and galleries in Old Harbor or take a bike ride around the island for a scenic adventure.
With its unique blend of natural beauty and coastal charm, Block Island is definitely one of the best East Coast destinations for those seeking mountainous landscapes by the beach.
4. Wilmington, North Carolina – The Port City
When it comes to the best East Coast destinations with mountains near the beach, Wilmington, North Carolina is a top contender. This charming city is surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains to the west and boasts stunning beaches along its coastline to the east.
Visitors can spend their days hiking through lush forests and taking in breathtaking mountain views, then unwind on the sandy shores of Wrightsville Beach or Carolina Beach. In addition to outdoor activities, Wilmington offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, with galleries, museums, and historic sites to explore.
5. Brunswick, Georgia – The Shrimp Capital of the World
Nestled along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Brunswick offers a unique experience with its proximity to both the beach and nearby mountains like Sugarloaf. Spend your days lounging on beautiful stretches of sandy shores or hiking through lush green forests with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Don’t forget to sample some fresh seafood at local restaurants or try your hand at water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.
6. Westmoreland State Park (Montross Virginia)
Situated along the Potomac River in Montross Virginia, Westmoreland State Park offers a unique combination of natural beauty and recreational activities. Visitors can hike through picturesque forests, kayak along the river, or simply relax on the sandy shores.
The park’s mountainous terrain provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its convenient location near several charming coastal towns and historic sites, Westmoreland State Park is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the best of both worlds – mountains and beaches – all in one place.
7. Provincetown, Massachusetts
Located at the tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown boasts stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the rolling hills of Pilgrim Monument on the other. The town itself is picturesque with its colorful houses, charming art galleries, and delicious seafood restaurants.
You can take a hike up to Herring Cove for panoramic ocean views or relax on the sandy shores of Race Point Beach. In addition to outdoor activities, Provincetown also has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community and hosts numerous events such as Carnival Week and Bear Week.
8. Fort Wetherill State Park (Jamestown, Rhode Island)
This hidden gem offers stunning views of Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery. Visitors can hike along scenic trails, explore historic military bunkers, or simply relax on the rocky shores and take in the breathtaking landscapes.
With its convenient location near Newport’s charming waterfront and popular beaches like Beavertail State Park, Fort Wetherill State Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.
9. Huron, New York
Nestled in the heart of upstate New York, Huron is a hidden gem for those seeking a perfect combination of mountainous terrain and sandy beaches along the east coast. With the picturesque Lake Ontario as its backdrop, Huron offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience both breathtaking mountain vistas and relaxing beach vibes all in one place.
The surrounding mountains provide endless opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife spotting, while the nearby beaches offer sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts an ideal spot for soaking up some sun or catching a wave.
10. Calvert Cliffs State Park (Lubsy, Maryland)
Calvert Cliffs State Park is famous for its majestic cliffs that overlook the Chesapeake Bay, as well as its sandy shores dotted with shark teeth fossils waiting to be discovered by eager beachcombers. Hikers can explore over 13 miles of scenic trails through wooded areas and along the water’s edge, providing stunning views of both the mountains and the bay.
For those looking to cool off after a hike, swimming and picnicking options are available on the park’s beaches. With its unique blend of landscapes, Calvert Cliffs State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers seeking an East Coast getaway that offers both mountainous vistas and sandy beaches.
Related: 15 Best East Coast Shelling Beaches for Seashell Enthusiasts
11. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, a stretch of beach with a wealth of entertainment, is one of the most popular beaches in South Carolina. The majestic Blue Ridge Mountains can be seen from the shores, offering a breathtaking contrast.
Visitors to Myrtle Beach can also enjoy water sports, golf, and various attractions. Additionally, Myrtle Beach offers a variety of accommodations and dining options, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing beach vacation.
Conclusion
As we conclude our exploration of the 11 best East Coast destinations with mountains near the beach, we hope this guide has inspired you to embark on your own adventure to these captivating locations. Whether you seek outdoor thrills in the mountains, relaxation on sandy shores, or the charm of coastal towns, the East Coast offers a diverse array of experiences for every traveler.
So pack your bags, hit the road, and immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of these unique destinations where mountains and beaches harmoniously coexist, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
