Professional Camera View of America's 17 Best Beach Towns, Laid-back Vibes And Stunning Coastal Views

Bald Head Island, North Carolina

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The marshy coastlines of the Carolinas and Georgia are dotted with pretty, peaceful beach communities (see: Edisto), and North Carolina's Bald Head Island is one of the dreamiest. The East Coast's northernmost subtropical island, Bald Head is largely protected maritime forest, with beach rentals, nature trails, a few cafes, and miles of spectacular, unspoiled beaches. Cars aren't allowed, so guests zip around in golf carts — and on bike, in kayaks, and on their own two feet. Between beach walks, bike rides, and board games on the porch, travelers can visit the state's oldest standing lighthouse (named Old Baldy) and meet native loggerhead sea turtles at Bald Head Island Conservancy.

St. Augustine, Florida

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Not every beach vacation coincides with an Old World atmosphere. In centuries-old St. Augustine, culture and coastal nature go hand in hand. The Spanish-founded town is home to peaceful beaches, historic sites, like Castillo de San Marcos (the country's oldest standing masonry fort), and quaint European-style shopping streets, such as St. George and Aviles. Other must-sees include the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, the local alligator zoo, and St. Augustine Distillery, open daily for tours and artisanal tastings.