To me, there’s nothing better than a coastal city: you get the evening night life mixed with the relaxed nature inherent to coastal places. It gives you the option to choose whether you want to be relaxing by the water or exploring the local shops.
If you love being on the coast, but also want something that offers some adventure and night life, look not further than my top five coastal cities to visit in 2023 – from the west coast to the east coast of the USA, there’s something here for everybody.
San Diego, CA
Embrace your inner surfer as you stroll down the long boardwalk in Mission Beach, a laid-back neighborhood in San Diego. Mission Boulevard is dotted with cafes, shops, and other eateries within an easy walk from the beach. Enjoy your time on the boardwalk Plus, enjoy a wooden roller coaster ride in Belmont Park, which was built in 1925.
Be sure to grab a coffee and pastry at the Olive Café before you hit the beach to watch the beach volleyball match.
Galveston, TX
From The Strand to the Seawall, you’re set to have a good time in Galveston. Located an hour south of Houston, the warm Gulf waters and salty air will instantly relax you. Start your day at the Seawall to hit the beach for some sand and surf, and enjoy your lunch overlooking the 81st St Pier at Jimmy’s On the Pier.
Rinse off and drive down to The Strand to take advantage of a round of Happy Hour locations including the new chic Sugar and Rye, and the vibrant Vida Agave. There’s always an event happening downtown, so break out those comfortable shoes and get ready to bar hop and dance the night away.
If you’re in town on a Sunday, check out Vida Agave’s free Salsa lessons.
Miami, FL
Now, there’s obviously a TON you can do in Miami – from the beaches to the arts to the night life. My Miami recommendations include the beach (obviously) and the neighborhood Little Havana.
The walkability in South Beach is great – check out the southern end and hit the beach near the 5th St Lifeguard tower so you can be near the 6th street bathrooms. Plus, enjoy the walk through Lummus Park as you make your way to the beach. There are lots of eateries within two blocks of the beach, so stop in for a frozen pina colada and tapas.
When you’re ready for some of the best coffee you’ve ever had, take a 20-30 minute ride over to Little Havana. The peak activity is on Calle Ocho, where you’ll find plenty of Latin-inspired eats, murals, and a great Cafe Cubano. If you’re around on a summer day, get in line for the Azucar Ice Cream Company to cool down.
Seattle, WA
Now when we talk about a city, THIS is a city. Seattle is located on the Puget Sound, and is the largest city in Washington state. One of the highlights is the incredible public transit options, as well as the fact that this city is very bike friendly. So no matter what part of the city you want to explore, there are plenty of options to get there.
Though it’s a highlight for tourists, it’s one worth visiting: Pike Place Market. This waterfront market sprawls across 9 acres in the heart of downtown Seattle, and is home to over 400 Market businesses. Enjoy local eats, fresh flowers, whole-leaf teas, and the famous Pike Place Fish Market for fresh Pacific seafood. You may even see them toss a few fish around!
If you’re visiting this summer, get ready for the 15th annual Flower Festival happening at the Market in May, and the 50th anniversary celebration of the establishment of the Pike Place Market Preservation & Development Authority.
Annapolis, MD
Okay, so it’s really a riverfront city, but Annapolis should always be on your list. This iconic town offers incredible, fresh seafood and rich history. Annapolis is consistently ranked as a top U.S. walkable town, as the downtown area is easy to navigate on foot.
Enjoy an evening of shopping and settle in at one of the many restaurants offering fresh Chesapeake oysters paired with a cold glass of Sauv Blanc (or Sancerre, if you want to pretend you’re in an Elin Hilderbrand book). Also serving up the best crab cakes – no filler business here – head across the Compromise St/6th St bridge to the Boatyard Bar and Grill.
Mark you calendar for Wednesday night sail boat races at the Annapolis City Dock, starting April 26 and ending in August 2023. While you’re in town, stop by the Galway Irish Pub for some incredible fish and chips and a pint.
