Kennebunkport, October 22, 2025
News Summary
The Atlantic Coast hosts some of the best destinations for a three-day weekend getaway, including Kennebunkport, Maine. This charming town, along with others like St. Augustine, Florida, and Montauk, New York, offers beautiful beaches and rich history. Kennebunkport features scenic beaches and picturesque gardens, making it an ideal retreat for travelers looking for relaxation and outdoor adventures. Other notable spots along the coast provide similar opportunities, ensuring a memorable escape from urban life.
Kennebunkport
The US Atlantic Coast offers numerous destinations ideal for a three-day weekend getaway in 2025. These picturesque towns provide a tranquil escape from busier urban areas, showcasing the coast’s historic and natural treasures.
With the Atlantic Coast enjoying mild winters and abundant sunshine, it boasts the largest share of the US’s best beaches and iconic beach towns. From the charming streets of Kennebunkport, Maine, to the stunning shores of Montauk, New York, travelers are sure to find a delightful retreat.
Top Destinations for a Memorable Weekend
St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established town in North America. It features the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the US, built between 1672 and 1695. The pedestrian-only St. George Street is perfect for shopping, dining, and exploring historic sites. Key attractions include the Oldest Wooden School House, the Medieval Torture Museum, and Crescent Beach, offering swimming, fishing, and surfing opportunities. For accommodations, the Renaissance St. Augustine Historic Downtown Hotel showcases Victorian architecture and is conveniently located within walking distance of local attractions.
New Smyrna Beach, Florida
New Smyrna Beach is celebrated for its stunning hotels, including SpringHill Suites by Marriott, which offer coastal scenery. Notable attractions include Smyrna Dunes Park for beach access and bird watching, Apollo Beach for a clothing-optional experience, and the Canal Street Historic District, featuring various shops, restaurants, and the New Smyrna Museum of History.
Beaufort, South Carolina
The architecturally rich town of Beaufort, founded in 1711, features historic sites like the Beaufort National Cemetery and the Beaufort Historical District. The Rhett House Inn offers a classic Southern breakfast and historic charm, while nearby Hunting Island State Park boasts five miles of pristine beaches and the Hunting Island Lighthouse.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a bustling resort city known for its coastal entertainment. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is lined with shops and restaurants and features the iconic SkyWheel. Broadway at the Beach is a 350-acre entertainment complex including Ripley’s Aquarium, one of South Carolina’s premier attractions. The Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grand Dunes provides a luxurious accommodation option.
Montauk, New York
Montauk is famous for its beautiful beaches such as Ditch Plains and Kirk Park Beach. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Montauk Point State Park for fishing, hiking, and breathtaking views. The Montauk Point Light is recognized as the oldest lighthouse in New York State. Dining options feature seafood establishments, including 668 The Gig Shack, and the Montauk Blue Hotel offers attractive oceanfront accommodations.
New Shoreham, Rhode Island (Block Island)
New Shoreham, located nine miles from the mainland, is known for its striking natural beauty. Popular sites include Mohegan Bluffs and Mansion Beach for relaxation and surfing, as well as the clay-headed trail offering hiking opportunities with ocean views. The area is home to notable lighthouses, including the Block Island Southeast Light, and accommodations such as the Old Town Inn provide cozy experiences with garden views.
Narragansett, Rhode Island
Narragansett is renowned for its Narragansett Town Beach, perfect for surfing and swimming. The town also features trails like the Black Point Trail for hiking enthusiasts. Historical landmarks include the Point Judith Lighthouse and The Towers, an event venue. The Break Hotel offers luxurious amenities, including a rooftop bar.
Kennebunkport, Maine
The Cottages at Cabot Cove in Kennebunkport provide charming accommodations set within picturesque gardens, while popular beaches include Gooch’s Beach and scenic areas along Ocean Avenue. The town also features Walker’s Point Estate, a historic landmark.
Camden, Maine
Camden is highlighted by the Camden Hills State Park, offering incredible views of Penobscot Bay. Visitors can enjoy picnicking at Camden Harbor Park, and the Camden Snow Bowl provides year-round activities like skiing and mountain biking. The Camden Windward House is a highly-rated hotel located near attractions.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor serves as the gateway to Acadia National Park, covering 47,000 acres of stunning landscapes. The Park Loop Road offers access to scenic vistas and hiking routes, while the Shore Path provides picturesque views along Frenchman Bay. For accommodations, the West Street Hotel boasts various amenities.
Each of these coastal towns presents a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of life, promising history, beautiful beaches, and relaxation for a three-day weekend in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top destinations for a three-day weekend on the Atlantic Coast in 2025?
The top destinations include St. Augustine, New Smyrna Beach, Beaufort, Myrtle Beach, Montauk, New Shoreham, Narragansett, Kennebunkport, Camden, and Bar Harbor.
Does the Atlantic Coast have a mild winter climate?
Yes, the Atlantic Coast enjoys abundant sunshine and mild winters, making it an appealing getaway destination.
What attractions can I find in St. Augustine, Florida?
Notable attractions include the Castillo de San Marcos, St. George Street, the Oldest Wooden School House, and Crescent Beach.
What types of activities are popular in New Smyrna Beach?
Popular activities include visiting Smyrna Dunes Park for bird watching, enjoying Apollo Beach, and exploring the Canal Street Historic District.
Why is Bar Harbor a popular destination?
Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park, featuring stunning landscapes and access to scenic points and hiking trails.
Key Features of Top Atlantic Coast Destinations
| Destination | Main Attractions | Accommodation Options |
|---|---|---|
| St. Augustine, FL | Castillo de San Marcos, St. George Street, Crescent Beach | Renaissance St. Augustine Historic Downtown Hotel |
| New Smyrna Beach, FL | Smyrna Dunes Park, Canal Street Historic District | SpringHill Suites by Marriott |
| Beaufort, SC | Beaufort National Cemetery, Hunting Island State Park | The Rhett House Inn |
| Myrtle Beach, SC | Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, Broadway at the Beach | Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grand Dunes |
| Montauk, NY | Ditch Plains, Montauk Point State Park | Montauk Blue Hotel |
| New Shoreham, RI | Mohegan Bluffs, Block Island Southeast Light | Old Town Inn |
| Narragansett, RI | Narragansett Town Beach, The Towers | The Break Hotel |
| Kennebunkport, ME | Gooch’s Beach, Walker’s Point Estate | Cottages at Cabot Cove |
| Camden, ME | Camden Hills State Park, Camden Harbor Park | Camden Windward House |
| Bar Harbor, ME | Acadia National Park, Shore Path | West Street Hotel |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- World Atlas: 10 Ideal Atlantic Coast Destinations for a 3-Day Weekend in 2025
- Travel + Leisure: Easy Weekend Getaways from the East Coast
- Travel + Leisure: Weekend Getaways
- Orlando Date Night Guide: Weekend Getaways from Orlando
- World Atlas: 9 Best Atlantic Coast Towns for a Weekend Trip
- Wikipedia: Atlantic Coast
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlantic Ocean
- Google Search: Best beaches on the Atlantic Coast
- Google Scholar: Atlantic Coast getaways
- Google News: Atlantic Coast travel trends
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
