When vacationing with all of my kiddos, we like to visit places that are a bit more hustle and bustle. This is probably because larger cities usually have more options for my large family. However, when my husband and I like to go on vacations together, without the kids, we end up choosing locations that are a bit smaller and full of small-town charm. There’s something so romantic about spending a weekend holed up together in a tiny beach town! And if there’s one thing I know, it’s that small town travel sometimes makes for the very best vacations because of the intimacy. Say goodbye to the big city on your next vacation, and spend some time enjoying the small-town life instead. Below are a few of my favorite small-town beach vacation destinations.

Saugatak, Michigan

Head to Lake Michigan to enjoy the soft sand and rolling hills. Saugatak is only home to 978 people, so you are sure to find a moment of peace and quiet no matter where you visit. While you’re here, visit the 1-acre Summerhouse lavender farm for beautiful photography.

Grand Bend, Ontario

Located on the southeastern end of Lake Huron, families head to this small town for parasailing, fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. Get up early one morning to watch the sunrise as it blazes across the lake, and stay up late one night to watch the sunset with different shades of orange. Bring your camera to each one!

Block Island, Rhode Island

Block Island is only reachable by boat or airplane, making it the perfect destination if you love small town charm. This island boasts as many as 17 miles of untouched coastline perfect for sunbathing, hiking, or exploring. We stay at the Spring House Hotel when we visit Block Island. You won’t find any traffic lights or brand-name stores on this island, and you can get lost in the easy-going way of life.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Not too long ago, my husband and I were seriously considering packing up our beach-side home and trading it in for a home on Cannon Beach. We couldn’t help it after we spent a week there we absolutely fell in love! We enjoyed hiking along the beach and even spent a night camping directly next to the water. Not only were the views gorgeous, but we loved wandering among the art galleries and eating at fabulous restaurants. We loved eating at the Driftwood.

Capitola, California

Just down the beach from the world-famous surf spot, Santa Cruz, Capitola California is known for its rows and rows of colorful beachside homes. If you enjoy this small town beach vacation in the summer, be sure to keep an eye on the community events calendar! Sometimes they have movies at the beach and small carnivals or festivals.

Kiawah Islands, South Carolina

If you love a good golf game while enjoying stunning natural scenery and wildlife, you simply must add the Kiawah Islands to your list. Kiawah has ten miles of absolutely gorgeous coastline and boasts some of the most beautiful fires in all of America. Be sure to try Stand-Up paddleboarding while in the area!

And, if you are looking for that small town feel on an island, check out this link:https://sandbetweenmypiggies.com
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