Tucked away in their respective hiding spots and all along the East Coast shorelines of Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, and New York's Long Island, a small but charming collection of coastal beach towns tastefully flaunt their timeless elegance and quiet luxury. These idyllic beach towns are riddled with nostalgia. Usually pegged online as "coastal grandmother" locations, the towns conjure picturesque images of breezy linen trousers, sun-soaked front lawns, and the soothing rhythm of the ocean tide beating back and forth as if it had a heart of its own. From the quaint-yet-luxurious paths in Nantucket to the upscale mom-and-pop shops located in the Hamptons, these coastal goldmines offer a perfect blend of tranquility and old-world living. Take a look at the minimalism that lies in the grandiose; these are some of our favorite spots, whether you’re in the running for a tranquil retreat or an Insta-worthy lighthouse adventure. That’s the thing about coastal living: You are able to embrace the coastal grandmother (or coastal granddaughter) aesthetic, indulge in freshly caught seafood bites, and find yourself in the simple-yet-chic indulgences life by the sea has to offer. And I'm not just talking about Instagram pics!
Starting off strong with a fan favorite, only 30 miles south of Cape Cod (which is another quaint and timeless location). You can get here by boat, ferry, or plane. We recommend hopping on the ferry they offer. Not only because we know not everyone is lucky enough to have a boat, but because the breezy boat ride from the mainland to the isolated paradise is a sight in and of itself. Everyone knows about Nantucket, but not everybody knows what to do once they arrive there. Though there are no deficits of sandy beachfronts, there are beach sights that are pretty popular to choose from if you’re unsure of where to start. Surfside Beach is considered the most visited, thanks to the rougher surf and larger waves. If you’re into surfing, be sure to bring your board and a few of your best friends for an adventurous all-day excursion. If you prefer a gentle bobbing to relax and wade in, definitely check out Jetties Beach over on the north shore. Just make sure a lifeguard is present! Other than beach outings, you can bike ride down to the Nantucket Historical Association where you’ll get the inside scoop on the history of the island, their whaling culture, and the cultures of the all-year citizens of the island. Or, you can drive down to Cisco Brewers. They have a winery, distillery, and brewery with live music if you want to get a taste of the delicious drinks made on the island while enjoying some good tunes. Once you’ve had enough wine, (safely) travel to Straight Wharf Restaurant to enjoy some more wine and seafood tapas.
I may be partial to the Hamptons as a New York native, but there’s a reason this not-so-quaint but very-much-so beach town reeks of celebrity. Not only did the Hamptons inspire East Egg and West Egg in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s "The Great Gatsby," but it is one of the most visited spots visited on Long Island during the summer months. When I think of “coastal grandmother” chic, East Hampton is exactly what I picture. Blue and white pinstripe button downs, vintage bikes (with the basket of course), and sea salt-soaked hair drying in the ocean breeze. What is there to do? Well, of course you can lounge on the sandy beach along the Long Island Sound, but the little shops that live there are to die for. Because of the uptick in the population of celebrity beach houses, you’ll find high fashion storefronts on every other street on the main strips. Louis Vitton, Chanel, and Cartier are some that live in the shopping district, but be sure to check out BookHampton to treat yourself to a soothing beach read. You can also check out Unsubscribed, which has an array of sustainable clothing options if you want to bring back a quality souvenir for yourself. If you’re feeling a little eclectic, check out the LongHouse Reserve riddled with sculptures and outdoor art installations that’ll make for an amazing backdrop showing off your coastal grandmother outfits and an even more amazing memory. When you’re starved, head over to Ram’s Head Inn where you’ll travel back to the quainter times of the Hamptons. Seafood lovers would prefer to live there if they could.
In a little coastal enclave on the East Coast shore, you’ll find the charming town of Stonington, Connecticut. It is the only Connecticut town that faces the Atlantic, and shares the shore with Long Island, NY and Block Island, Rhode Island. Explore the rocky coves and stunning peninsulas while you’re there, making sure to check off all types of land during your stay. If swampy marshes are your thing, they have those too. Grand & Water Antiques has a large, curated collection of the most eccentric antiques there are out there, with vintage furniture, artwork, and a variety of other collectibles. Boro Bodega & Scoopery is what appears to be an independently run shop that offers fresh produce, prepared foods, and ice cream. If you’re exhausted from an all-day excursion at Dubois Beach, pick up a ready-made meal and scoop of vanilla bean creamy goodness to start the rest of your evening off right.
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LIFESTYLE │ Fashion
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There’s nothing quite like a summer in Europe: warm sunlight, cobblestone streets, and breathtaking landmarks ranging from cathedrals to age-old storefronts. Whether you’re lounging on the shore of the Mediterranean or attending vibrant cultural festivals, the European girl aesthetic is elegant yet casual, with a bit of boho mystique.
Kennebunkport, Maine, is a classic New England coastal town that simply exudes timelessness and maritime heritage. Sitting comfortably along the rocky coastline of the south of Maine, this destination offers a beautiful blend of natural beauty, interesting history, and East Coast grace. Visitors can explore the quaint downtown main city-center, riddled with unique shops, art galleries, and local eateries, like the seaside Ocean Restaurant, serving the freshest-of-the-fresh lobster and oysters. A proper stroll along Ocean Avenue will give you to-die-for views of the Atlantic, coupled with an opportunity to take a gander at the Bush family compound at Walker's Point. Goose Rocks Beach is a perfect place for mermaid-like individuals to sunbathe on the picturesque terrain and float on clear waters. If you fancy some knowledge about the town, be sure to check out the Seashore Trolley Museum or take a tour of the First Families Kennebunkport Museum. Kennebunkport also offers different kayaking and boat-riding excursions, where you’ll likely spot a magnificent whale or two.
Another charming coastal beach town. Grab your sun hats and linen trousers. Narragansett, Rhode Island is like Newport’s up-and-coming younger sister. Sort of like a little nepo baby; if you've heard of Newport (which I’m sure you have), take a look at this quaint destination. Basking in its own New England character, the seaside town is renowned for its sandy beaches, most notably Narragansett Town Beach, where tourists can ride the surf, go for a calm swim, or soak up the sun’s rays in style. Narragansett Towers, which is the remnants of a popular old-timey casino, still stands today to invite visitors to take in the rich history of the town. If you’re more of the adventurous type, you can explore the rocky coast at sunset or check out some of the hiking trails up at Black Point. The Pier Marketplace has little boutiques and restaurants if you’re hungry or want to engage in some much-needed vacation retail therapy. We can’t forget the main facet of the coastal grandmother town aesthetic: you must visit the Point Judith Lighthouse if you’re looking to prove to your gals that you reached ultimate coastal-grandmothery.
