Exploring coastal small towns is like uncovering hidden gems—each one brimming with charm, history, and adventure. Whether you're soaking up the sun on sandy shores or exploring historic streets, one thing's for sure: UPF 50+ apparel like Altered Latitudes is your best friend, even on cloudy days! Let’s dive into the top 5 coastal small towns in the U.S. and find out what makes each one special.
Since you love a classic coastal town, check out our Coastal Classics Graphic Designs. We carry graphics printed on UPF 50+ solar long sleeves for thousands of destinations. We carry lifestyle graphics, too. But first, let’s peek at our picks!
Top 5 Coastal Small Towns in the U.S. to Explore
It’s so hard to pick just 5, so let’s consider this list a starting point. 😊 Have a favorite small coastal town? Let us know and we’ll add it!
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1. Newport, Rhode Island
Best Things to Do Outside: Newport is a sailor's dream, and nothing says "coastal chic" like a walk along the Cliff Walk. This 3.5-mile trail offers stunning ocean views and passes by historic mansions. Sailing enthusiasts will love a day out on the water—charter a boat or take a sunset cruise. (Photo Credit Pixabay: CD_Photosaddict)
Famous Spot: The Breakers Mansion is a must-see. This Gilded Age marvel, once home to the Vanderbilts, showcases opulence at its finest.
Off the Beaten Path: Head to Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge for a quiet hike with breathtaking views of the Atlantic. It's perfect for birdwatching and spotting seals in the winter.
Great Places for Coffee: Enjoy a cup of joe at Empire Tea & Coffee, a local favorite known for its cozy vibe and great brews.
Seafood Delights: Don’t miss the clam chowder at The Black Pearl, a Newport institution.
Best Sunrise: Easton’s Beach is the place to be for a peaceful sunrise over the water.
Best Sunset: Castle Hill Inn offers a stunning spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon—grab a drink and soak in the view.
Best Graphic Shirts: Our Newport Vintage Compass UPF 50+ Long Sleeve. Available in Men’s, Women’s, and Kids’ styles. Don’t forget the Can Coolers!
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2. Cape May, New Jersey
Best Things to Do Outside: Cape May’s beaches are perfect for sunbathing, but don’t forget your UPF 50+ shirt! Rent a bike and pedal through the charming streets lined with Victorian homes, or spend the day at the Cape May Point State Park.
Famous Spot: The Cape May Lighthouse is iconic—climb to the top for panoramic views of the town and ocean.
Off the Beaten Path: The Cape May Winery offers a tranquil escape with beautiful vineyards and delicious local wine.
Great Places for Coffee: Out There Coffee is the go-to spot for fresh brews and a laid-back atmosphere.
Seafood Delights: For the best crab cakes, head to The Lobster House, a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Best Sunrise: Poverty Beach offers a serene setting for early risers to catch the sunrise.
Best Sunset: Sunset Beach lives up to its name—watch the sun set over the Delaware Bay, and don’t miss the flag ceremony.
Best Can Coolers? Nothing beats a 4-pack of the Altered Latitudes Cape May Can Cooler. Put your favorite beverage in this neoprene koozie and it’ll be the perfect reminder of your trip any time of year.
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3. Gulf Shores, Alabama
Best Things to Do Outside: The sugar-white sand of Gulf Shores is perfect for beachgoers. Try your hand at paddleboarding or kayaking in the warm Gulf waters. A visit to Gulf State Park is a must for hiking and biking. (Photo credit: Pixabay erickandsari)
Famous Spot: The Hangout is an iconic beachfront spot known for live music and family fun.
Off the Beaten Path: Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge offers a peaceful retreat with nature trails and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Great Places for Coffee: Grab a cup of java at The Southern Grind Coffee House, known for its beachy vibe and delicious pastries.
Seafood Delights: You can’t visit Gulf Shores without trying the oysters at Acme Oyster House.
Best Sunrise: Gulf State Park Pier is a popular spot to watch the sunrise over the Gulf.
Best Sunset: Catch the sunset at Orange Beach—it’s a picture-perfect ending to the day.
Best Gulf Shores Graphics: Our Gulf Shores Coastal Classic Map Graphics are hand-printed on UPF 50+ shirts. Available in Men’s, Women’s, and Kids’ styles.
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4. Key West, Florida
Best Things to Do Outside: Key West is a tropical paradise where you can snorkel, dive, or simply relax on the beach. Take a bike ride around town to explore the island’s quirky charm. (Photo Credit Pixabay: FitzFox)
Famous Spot: Mallory Square is famous for its nightly sunset celebration, where street performers and vendors gather to watch the sun set. Don't forget to take a picture at the Southernmost Point!
Off the Beaten Path: The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a hidden gem—walk among butterflies in a tropical garden setting.
Great Places for Coffee: Cuban Coffee Queen serves up strong, authentic Cuban coffee that’s a local favorite.
Seafood Delights: For the best Key lime pie and fresh seafood, head to Blue Heaven.
Best Sunrise: Smathers Beach is the perfect spot to catch a quiet sunrise.
Best Sunset: No trip to Key West is complete without watching the sunset at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.
Best Key West Souvenirs: We have several different Key West graphic designs that we print on our UPF 50+ Shirts and can coolers. Choose from Coastal Classic Map graphics, Vintage Compass graphics, Fish Chart graphics, and can coolers with Chart graphics.
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5. Port Angeles, Washington
Best Things to Do Outside: Port Angeles is the gateway to Olympic National Park—hike Hurricane Ridge or explore tide pools at Salt Creek Recreation Area. The cool Pacific Northwest weather means sun protection is a must, even on overcast days. (Photo Credit Pixabay: GM-VA)
Famous Spot: Hurricane Ridge offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and is a great spot for hiking. Plan a trip in the Spring to see the Sakura Cherry Trees in bloom. Gorgeous!
Off the Beaten Path: Elwha River Restoration Site is a fascinating area to explore the regeneration of a once-dammed river.
Great Places for Coffee: Visit Fogtown Coffee Bar for a warm cup of coffee and friendly service.
Seafood Delights: Enjoy fresh Dungeness crab at the popular CrabHouse Restaurant.
Best Sunrise: Watch the sunrise over the Strait of Juan de Fuca from Ediz Hook.
Best Sunset: Head to the Dungeness Spit for a serene sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Best Port Angeles Souvenirs: Our Port Angeles Coastal Classic Map Graphics are hand-printed on UPF 50+ shirts. Available in Men’s, Women’s, and Kids’ styles.
Coastal Graphics for Coastal Towns from Altered Latitudes
If you’re like us, you’re ready to pack your bags, throw on your UPF 50+ shirt, and start exploring these coastal treasures! With stunning views, delicious seafood, and endless outdoor adventures, these small towns offer the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement.
Altered Latitudes is all about soaking up the culture, fun, and sun anywhere we go. Check out all of our Destination Graphics and our Lifestyle Graphics. We have styles for Men, Women, and Kids so you can get something for everyone in your crew!
