30 small beach towns that should be on your radar

You’ll find these scenic waterfronts everywhere from the coast of France to the shores of Alabama.

If you’re looking to relax on the beach with a good book, soak up the sun and take a dip in the water, there are several under-the-radar destinations you should consider. In addition to offering a quintessential beach experience, these towns tout several things to do — ranging from cultural fun to outdoor adventure — and striking scenery. Read on for vacation inspiration the next time you want to escape to a beautiful beach town.

**Saugatuck, Michigan** Overlooking the shores of Lake Michigan, Saugatuck is home to several serene beaches that feature soft sand, rolling dunes and peaceful atmospheres. It’s a popular Michigan summer vacation spot and draws adventure lovers and families thanks to its variety of outdoor pursuits, including boating and hiking. Saugatuck is also home to some unique attractions, such as the 1-acre Summerhouse Lavender Farm, and quirky shops along Butler Street. (Thinkstock)

**Ogunquit, Maine** Ogunquit is located on Maine’s southern coast, and its name means “beautiful place by the sea” in the indigenous Abenaki tribal language. Beautiful is right — miles of wide beaches, grassy dunes, quaint bed-and-breakfasts and a promenade with stunning coastal views are a few lovely perks you’ll find in Ogunquit. The town is also home to tasty eateries serving everything from seafood (where you can sample lobster, clams and fish tacos) to pizza to Mexican. (Thinkstock)

Grand Bend, Ontario
Breathtaking sunsets and wide beaches welcome travelers to Ontario's Grand Bend, which is on the southeastern shores of Lake Huron. This destination is a favorite for families, who can go parasailing, hiking, boating and fishing, but travelers of all types can take advantage of Grand Bend's offerings. Save some time for shopping, too: The region is home to quaint boutiques and a few farmers markets. (Thinkstock) — **Grand Bend, Ontario** Breathtaking sunsets and wide beaches welcome travelers to Ontario’s Grand Bend, which is on the southeastern shores of Lake Huron. This destination is a favorite for families, who can go parasailing, hiking, boating and fishing, but travelers of all types can take advantage of Grand Bend’s offerings. Save some time for shopping, too: The region is home to quaint boutiques and a few farmers markets. (Thinkstock)

Block Island, Rhode Island
A family favorite and one of the best-kept secrets on the East Coast, Block Island can only be reached by water or air. On this small island, just south of Rhode Island's mainland, you won't find traffic lights or big-name stores. What you will find is a picturesque shoreline with 17 miles of beaches to enjoy. What's more, Block Island boasts local boutiques, biking and sailing opportunities, ice cream parlors and an animal farm. (Thinkstock) — **Block Island, Rhode Island** A family favorite and one of the best-kept secrets on the East Coast, Block Island can only be reached by water or air. On this small island, just south of Rhode Island’s mainland, you won’t find traffic lights or big-name stores. What you will find is a picturesque shoreline with 17 miles of beaches to enjoy. What’s more, Block Island boasts local boutiques, biking and sailing opportunities, ice cream parlors and an animal farm. (Thinkstock)

Delaware Seashore State Park — **Rehoboth Beach, Delaware** Just north of the buzzy beach towns of Ocean City, Maryland, and Bethany Beach, Delaware, Rehoboth Beach offers many of the same vacation amenities with the added benefit of fewer crowds. Rehoboth’s clean beach and lively mile-long boardwalk — with bars, restaurants, amusement rides and ice cream shops — are the main draws. Plus, there are plenty of accommodation options here, ranging from vacation rentals to beachfront hotels. Meanwhile, those who love to shop will find excellent deals (and no sales tax) at the Tanger Outlets. (Courtesy Delaware State Parks)

**Cannon Beach, Oregon** This beach features the iconic 235-foot-tall Haystack Rock and miles of sandy shores that lead into the Pacific Ocean. Head here to admire the sunset and go on a romantic stroll with your sweetheart — golden hour is one of the best times to soak up the beach’s beauty. The area also offers ample hiking opportunities, hosts year-round festivals and is home to art galleries and boutiques galore. You’ll find Cannon Beach about 80 miles northwest of Portland. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

Burleigh Heads, Australia
Situated on Australia's Gold Coast, Burleigh Heads is an undiscovered gem. The beach exudes a laid-back atmosphere and enjoys fewer crowds than other Australian beaches. What's more, you'll find coffee shops and eateries just a block off the beach, so when you need a bite to eat you won't have to wander far. Travelers can also explore the nearby parks and arts and crafts markets. (Thinkstock) — **Burleigh Heads, Australia** Situated on Australia’s Gold Coast, Burleigh Heads is an undiscovered gem. The beach exudes a laid-back atmosphere and enjoys fewer crowds than other Australian beaches. What’s more, you’ll find coffee shops and eateries just a block off the beach, so when you need a bite to eat you won’t have to wander far. Travelers can also explore the nearby parks and arts and crafts markets. (Thinkstock)

Capitola, California
The town of Capitola is adjacent to Santa Cruz and characterized by its colorful seaside homes and quaint village. Travelers can relax on the small beach, which comes to life in the summer with outdoor movie screenings and live music, or stroll down Capitola Avenue to shop at unique boutiques. The town also hosts an annual art and wine festival in September. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez) — **Capitola, California** The town of Capitola is adjacent to Santa Cruz and characterized by its colorful seaside homes and quaint village. Travelers can relax on the small beach, which comes to life in the summer with outdoor movie screenings and live music, or stroll down Capitola Avenue to shop at unique boutiques. The town also hosts an annual art and wine festival in September. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

Biarritz, France Located on France’s southwestern coast, Biarritz has been welcoming visitors for decades. It was once a popular vacation spot for royal families but today sees travelers of all types. There are several sandy beaches to explore, and the town is home to a casino and an aquarium. Plus, Biarritz is a hot surfing spot that celebrates the sport annually at the Biarritz Surf Festival, which draws pro surfers (and curious spectators) from around the world.. (AP Photo/Bob Edme)

AP Photo/Bob Edme