15 U.S. Coastal Towns That Are Perfect for Retirement

Imagine waking up every morning to the sound of waves gently lapping against the shore and the salty sea breeze kissing your face as you sip on your freshly brewed coffee. Sounds like a slice of heaven, right? Well, you can make this dream a reality. Here are 15 U.S. coastal towns that are perfect for retirement!

1. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

In Carmel-by-the-Sea, the houses look like they’ve been plucked from a storybook, and the beaches? Well, they’re the kind where you can watch the sunset and feel like you’re starring in your own romantic movie. This town is a haven for retirees who appreciate fine dining, art galleries, and the occasional celebrity sighting while walking their dog.

2. St. Augustine, Florida

As the oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine has got more history than your high school textbook. With its cobblestone streets and ancient forts, retirees can spend their days exploring the past, and when the sun sets, they can enjoy a glass of wine from a local vineyard. Who needs the History Channel when you live here?

3. Newport, Rhode Island

In Newport, the yachts are big, and the mansions are bigger. This coastal gem takes you back in time to America’s Gilded Age. But don’t worry – you don’t need to be a Vanderbilt to enjoy it! The town’s stunning architecture and sailing culture make it a retiree’s paradise. Plus, the seafood here will make you forget every fishy dish you’ve ever had!

4. Beaufort, South Carolina

Beaufort looks like a painting with its antebellum architecture and moss-draped oaks. It’s the Southern charm capital of the coast! Living here, you can enjoy kayaking, fishing, or just sitting on a porch swing, soaking in the slow and sweet life. This place is so relaxing that you might need a nap to prepare for it!

5. Traverse City, Michigan

Who said beach towns had to be on the ocean? Traverse City challenges the norm with its stunning freshwater beaches along Lake Michigan. Famous for its cherry festivals, here, you can enjoy the sweet life – literally. And if you fancy a swim, there are literally no sharks here. There’s nothing better!

6. Cape May, New Jersey

Step into Cape May, and you’ll feel like you’ve walked onto a Victorian postcard. This town takes “old school cool” to a new level with its historical landmarks and vintage charm. The townspeople also take preservation pretty seriously, so you won’t have to worry about it changing too much – except for maybe the hairstyles.

7. Astoria, Oregon

What do you get when the forest meets the sea? Astoria, of course! It’s perfect for retirees who like their mornings foggy and their coffee even stronger. With a rich maritime history and a culture that celebrates the great outdoors, life here is an adventure. Just remember that the seagulls are the real bosses of this town!

8. Key West, Florida

In Key West, festivities light up the night, and sleep is optional. This vibrant place thrives on its diverse mix of cultures and food, complemented by free-roaming chickens! For those retiring here, living here is like being in endless vacation mode, including breathtaking sunsets that paint the evening sky. You might just retire your alarm clock for good!

9. Rockport, Massachusetts

Rockport is sure to welcome you with its unmatched charm and a huge number of art galleries. It’s a serene haven for retirees passionate about the arts and maritime beauty. Here, the sheer beauty will make you want to start painting, turning scenic views into your canvas of relaxation and creativity.

10. Haleiwa, Hawaii

Haleiwa is a green paradise. Celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty, it also has legendary surf spots and a warm aloha spirit. It’s a place where retirement means lounging in nature’s lap or chasing the thrill of surfing, regardless of age. This town also has a sense of adventure so that you can live life to the fullest among the waves!

11. Boothbay Harbor, Maine

Boothbay Harbor, a picturesque fishing village, is a magnet for seafood enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility by the sea. With scenic boat excursions and whale watching, it’s a peaceful backdrop for retirement. If you love the crisp mountain air and pull of the ocean, you’ll certainly love this place.

12. Port Townsend, Washington

Port Townsend is the muse for many creatives – and for a good reason! Its vibrant cultural scene and welcoming community of artisans are sure to make you feel inspired on every corner. The coffee here is not just good – it’s the spark for productivity and creativity, turning your dreams into a reality.

13. Savannah, Georgia

In Savannah, the past is always present! For retirees, it’s a gateway to the past, offering rich cultural experiences and the chance to dine on some of the finest Southern cuisine around. The city’s famous ghost tours are an invitation to explore Savannah’s vivid history in a mix of truth and tales!

14. Anacortes, Washington

Anacortes is a gorgeous escape to the natural wonders of the San Juan Islands. It’s a place where many people spend their days on maritime adventures or exploring lush trails, while evenings are for enjoying the freshest seafood. Looking for a slower pace of life? Then Anacortes is the one for you!

15. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores is a retirement place where every day feels like a vacation. The local community is pretty easy-going, and the daily catch from the Gulf makes every meal a celebration of the sea’s bounty. For those looking to spend their retirement under the sun, Gulf Shores is where leisure meets adventure, and the living is easy.

Time to Shine

Retirement is your time to shine, to explore, and to relax in a place that feels just right. These 15 coastal towns across the United States are beautiful, yes, but they’re also more than that. These are communities where life can be as exciting or as peaceful as you want it to be. The coast is calling you!

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Tamila McDonald

Tamila McDonald is a U.S. Army veteran with 20 years of service, including five years as a military financial advisor. After retiring from the Army, she spent eight years as an AFCPE-certified personal financial advisor for wounded warriors and their families. Now she writes about personal finance and benefits programs for numerous financial websites.