Discover the Best Beach Towns on the East Coast

Travel host Samantha Brown has been entertaining audiences for decades, bringing them along as she travels around the world finding the best hotels, beaches, food and experiences.

Now, she’s sharing her list of beautiful East Coast beach towns. Lucky for us, two of her top choices are just a short drive away.

Brown has selected Chatham, Massachusetts and Watch Hill, Rhode Island as two of her favorites.

READ MORE: 2026 Is Massachusetts' Biggest Tourism Year Yet, Here's Why

Chatham, Massachusetts: A Modern Fishing Town

First, Chatham. The Cape town is home to award-winning restaurants, top-notch hotels, a baseball team, and a "modern fishing town" personality.

Brown called Chatham the "perfect place to escape the crowds and relax."

READ MORE: Chatham Bars Inn Ranked No. 1 For Waterfront Dining

"Be sure to visit Chatham Lighthouse Beach, it’s one of the best places to enjoy an afternoon and has to be one of the best beaches on the Cape," she adds.

Watch Hill, Rhode Island: Victorian Charm & Coastal Views

Another noteworthy beach town to visit is Watch Hill, located in Southern RI. The town has gained lots of attention over the years, thanks largely in part to Taylor Swift's residency.

READ MORE: Rhode Island Poised to Host 2026's Biggest Wedding, Swift & Kelce, at Ocean House

"Its ample supply of Victorian era homes ranging from ocean-side mansions to prim cottages make it easy to imagine life before 24-hour news cycles and social media," Brown said of Watch Hill.

A favorite activity while in the area: afternoon tea at the Olympia Tea Room.

Samantha Brown’s Top East Coast Beach Town Picks

• Kennebunkport, Maine
• New Castle, New Hampshire
• Chatham, Massachusetts
• Watch Hill, Rhode Island
• Montauk, New York
• Cape May, New Jersey
• Rehoboth, Delaware
• Chincoteague, Virginia
• Duck, North Carolina
• Beaufort, North Carolina
• Kiawah Island, South Carolina
• Folly Beach, South Carolina
• Tybee Island, Georgia
• Anna Maria Island, Florida