23 Dream Beach Towns Perfect for Retirees and Empty Nesters

There’s something magical about living on the ocean and it’s even better when in a quaint, dreamy town with all the amenities you could want without the hassle of large cities. That’s what this is all about – the most stunning small to midsized beach towns in America. If you’re retired or soon-to-retire and would love to live in a dream beach town, here’s a great starter list.

#23: Long Beach, Washington

If you love primal ocean nature, Long Beach, Washington is for you. The tow itself as a small-town with charm, perfect for retirees seeking relaxation and outdoor adventure. With its long stretches of sandy beaches, scenic trails, and vibrant local community, it offers plenty of opportunities for recreation. The town’s low cost of living, with a median home price of $280,000, combined with its peaceful atmosphere, makes it an appealing destination. The population of 1,392 enjoys a laid-back lifestyle on the Long Beach Peninsula, where nature and community come together. With a median household income of $40,000, it’s an affordable place to settle down.

#22: Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is renowned for its stunning Victorian architecture, charming downtown, and picturesque beaches, offering retirees a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural engagement. This historic town provides a peaceful atmosphere with plenty of activities, from exploring local history to enjoying art galleries and festivals. With a population of 3,463, Cape May maintains a close-knit community feel while offering the beauty of Cape May Beach. The median home price is $400,000, and the median household income is $50,000, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a serene yet active retirement.

#21: Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach offers retirees a lively atmosphere with its bustling boardwalk, pristine beaches, and welcoming community. Known for tax-free shopping and diverse dining options, it strikes a perfect balance between excitement and tranquility. With a population of 1,488, Rehoboth Beach maintains a small-town charm while offering plenty of recreational and cultural activities. The most popular spot, Rehoboth Beach itself, draws residents and visitors alike. With a median home price of $550,000 and a median household income of $70,000, it’s an attractive option for those seeking a vibrant yet relaxing retirement destination.

#20: Vero Beach, Florida

Vero Beach offers retirees a perfect mix of beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and a relaxed lifestyle. Known for its golf courses, museums, and friendly community, this town provides plenty of opportunities for leisure and engagement. South Beach Park is the most popular beach, drawing both residents and visitors to its serene shores. With a population of 17,163, Vero Beach maintains a laid-back atmosphere while offering a variety of activities. The median home price is $375,000, and the median household income is $45,000, making it an appealing and affordable retirement destination.

#19: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island is renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and upscale amenities, making it a favorite among retirees. The island’s natural beauty, coupled with its vibrant community and activities, offers an ideal mix of relaxation and engagement. Coligny Beach Park is the most popular beach, attracting both locals and visitors with its scenic charm. With a population of 39,861, Hilton Head provides a balance of small-town atmosphere and luxury living. The median home price is $470,000, and the median household income is $80,000, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking an active, high-quality retirement.

#18: Port Aransas, Texas

Port Aransas offers retirees a laid-back lifestyle with beautiful beaches and fantastic fishing opportunities, making it an ideal coastal retreat. The town’s friendly atmosphere and small-town charm provide a welcoming environment for those looking to unwind by the sea. Port Aransas Beach is the most popular spot, perfect for beachgoers and anglers alike. With a population of 4,038, this community maintains a relaxed vibe, and with a median home price of $350,000 and a median household income of $60,000, it’s an affordable option for those seeking a peaceful retirement by the coast.

#17: Venice, Florida

Venice is celebrated for its charming downtown, beautiful beaches, and welcoming community, making it a perfect spot for retirees. The town offers a variety of recreational activities, from golfing to water sports, along with a vibrant calendar of cultural events. Venice Beach, the most popular beach, provides stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. With a population of 23,020, Venice maintains a small-town feel while offering plenty of amenities. The median home price is $310,000, and the median household income is $55,000, making it an attractive and affordable retirement destination.

#16: Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores offers retirees beautiful white-sand beaches, a warm climate, and a relaxed lifestyle, making it an ideal coastal retreat. Known for its affordable cost of living and abundant outdoor activities like fishing, golfing, and beachcombing, the town provides plenty of ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Gulf Shores Public Beach is the most popular spot, drawing both residents and visitors to its pristine shores. With a population of 12,757, Gulf Shores maintains a laid-back vibe, while a median home price of $350,000 and a median household income of $57,000 make it an attractive option for retirees seeking a peaceful yet active lifestyle.

#15: Pawleys Island, South Carolina

Pawleys Island is a quiet and picturesque beach town with a rich history, offering retirees a peaceful and relaxed lifestyle. Known for its serene beaches, particularly Pawleys Island Beach, this small community provides a tranquil retreat surrounded by natural beauty. With golf courses and a friendly atmosphere, it’s an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy leisurely outdoor activities. Though the population is just 108, Pawleys Island has a close-knit charm, and with a median home price of $450,000 and a median household income of $75,000, it’s a sought-after spot for retirees seeking serenity by the sea.

#14: Naples, Florida

Naples is renowned for its upscale amenities, beautiful beaches, and top-notch golf courses, making it a popular choice for retirees seeking a high quality of life. Naples Beach is the most popular spot, offering stunning waterfront views and relaxation. The town provides a variety of cultural events, outdoor activities, and fine dining, making it both vibrant and laid-back. With a population of 21,750, Naples strikes a balance between small-town charm and luxury living. The median home price is $750,000, and the median household income is $90,000, making it an attractive destination for retirees looking for a refined yet active lifestyle.

#13: Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City is famous for its vibrant boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and welcoming atmosphere, offering retirees a perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment. Ocean City Beach is the most popular spot, providing stunning ocean views and plenty of activities. The town’s friendly community and variety of shops, restaurants, and events make it an appealing destination for those looking to enjoy both leisure and excitement. With a population of 6,944, Ocean City maintains a lively yet laid-back vibe. The median home price is $400,000, and the median household income is $55

#12: Destin, Florida

Destin is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches and emerald-green waters, making it a top destination for retirees seeking coastal beauty. The town offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, from boating and fishing to hiking, along with excellent dining options and a welcoming community. Henderson Beach State Park is the most popular spot, known for its pristine sands and natural beauty. With a population of 13,264, Destin strikes a balance between a small-town feel and vibrant living. The median home price is $500,000, and the median household income is $75,000, making it an attractive choice for retirees looking for both relaxation and adventure by the sea.

#11: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach offers retirees a vibrant lifestyle with its beautiful beaches, numerous golf courses, and a wide range of entertainment options. Known for its lively boardwalk and oceanfront attractions, Myrtle Beach provides a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. The town’s affordable cost of living, with a median home price of $275,000, along with its friendly community, makes it a popular choice for retirement. Myrtle Beach is the most popular beach, drawing residents and visitors alike to its scenic shores. With a population of 34,695 and a median household income of $45,000, Myrtle Beach is an appealing destination for those seeking an active yet affordable coastal retirement.

#10: Sanibel Island, Florida

Sanibel Island is famous for its pristine beaches and abundant wildlife, offering retirees a peaceful and serene environment. The island’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet, laid-back lifestyle. Bowman’s Beach is the most popular spot, known for its white sands and excellent shelling opportunities. With a population of 7,351, Sanibel Island maintains a close-knit, relaxed community. The median home price is $800,000, and the median household income is $95,000, making it a sought-after destination for retirees who value tranquility and nature.

#9: South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island offers retirees beautiful beaches, a warm climate, and a laid-back lifestyle, making it an ideal coastal retreat. Known for its affordability, the town provides a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and beachcombing, perfect for those seeking outdoor enjoyment. South Padre Island Beach is the most popular spot, attracting residents and visitors with its pristine sands and scenic views. With a population of 2,856, the island maintains a small, welcoming community. The median home price is $350,000, and the median household income is $52,000, making it an appealing destination for retirees looking for a relaxed and affordable beachfront lifestyle.

#8: Siesta Key, Florida

Siesta Key is renowned for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a top destination for retirees seeking coastal beauty. The town offers a range of outdoor activities like boating, swimming, and beachcombing, along with excellent dining options and a friendly, welcoming community. Siesta Beach is the most popular spot, known for its stunning shoreline and relaxing atmosphere. With a population of 5,573, Siesta Key provides a peaceful yet vibrant environment. The median home price is $700,000, and the median household income is $85,000, making it an attractive option for retirees looking for a luxurious and active beachfront lifestyle.

#7: Galveston, Texas

Galveston offers retirees a unique blend of rich history, beautiful beaches, and a variety of cultural attractions, making it an appealing coastal destination. The town provides plenty of opportunities for leisure, from exploring historic landmarks to enjoying its vibrant arts scene. Stewart Beach, the most popular spot, is perfect for relaxing by the ocean. With a population of 50,497, Galveston maintains a lively yet welcoming community. The median home price is $300,000, and the median household income is $50,000, making it an affordable and attractive option for retirees seeking a mix of culture, relaxation, and coastal living.

#6: St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., offers retirees a perfect blend of rich history, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant cultural scene. The town’s charming atmosphere, with its historic architecture and cobblestone streets, creates a unique environment for relaxation and exploration. St. Augustine Beach is the most popular spot, known for its serene shoreline and scenic views. With a population of 14,329, the city provides a welcoming community and numerous activities for retirees to enjoy. The median home price is $400,000, and the median household income is $60,000, making it an attractive and historically rich destination for retirement.

#5: Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota is renowned for its rich cultural attractions, beautiful beaches, and vibrant arts scene, making it a popular destination for retirees. The town offers a high quality of life, with plenty of recreational activities, from golfing to water sports, as well as a thriving arts and theater community. Lido Key Beach is the most popular spot, known for its pristine sands and tranquil atmosphere. With a population of 57,787, Sarasota strikes a balance between urban conveniences and coastal relaxation. The median home price is $450,000, and the median household income is $55,000, making it an appealing choice for retirees seeking an active, culturally rich lifestyle.

#4: Key West, Florida

Key West offers retirees a unique and vibrant lifestyle, with its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and lively arts scene creating an eclectic island atmosphere. The town’s warm climate and laid-back vibe make it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure. Smathers Beach, the most popular, is known for its picturesque views and inviting waters. With a population of 24,565, Key West provides a close-knit community feel while offering plenty of entertainment and outdoor activities. The median home price is $750,000, and the median household income is $80,000, making it a sought-after location for retirees looking for a tropical, carefree lifestyle.

#3: Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara is famous for its stunning coastline, Mediterranean climate, and upscale amenities, making it a highly desirable destination for retirees. The town offers a high quality of life with abundant cultural events, art galleries, and outdoor activities like hiking, sailing, and golfing. East Beach, the most popular beach, draws visitors and locals alike with its scenic views and relaxed atmosphere. With a population of 92,101, Santa Barbara combines a small-town feel with luxury living. The median home price is $1,200,000, and the median household income is $85,000, making it an attractive option for retirees seeking an active and refined lifestyle by the coast.

#2: Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is renowned for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene, making it a top destination for retirees. The town’s charming atmosphere, with its historic architecture and cobblestone streets, offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality and coastal living. Folly Beach, the most popular beach, provides stunning views and a relaxed setting for beachgoers. With a population of 137,041, Charleston offers a perfect mix of small-town charm and urban conveniences. The median home price is $500,000, and the median household income is $64,000, making it an attractive spot for retirees seeking a blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty.

#1: Coronado, California

I spent an afternoon on Coronado and it truly is one of the nicest areas to live. It has it all… pristine beaches, charming downtown, and upscale amenities, offering retirees a high quality of life in a picturesque setting. With a variety of recreational activities, from sailing and golfing to strolling along the scenic shoreline, the town provides plenty of opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment. Coronado Beach, the most popular spot, is famous for its soft sands and breathtaking views. With a population of 23,731, Coronado offers a peaceful yet vibrant community. The median home price is $1,500,000, and the median household income is $100,000, making it an ideal destination for retirees seeking a luxurious coastal lifestyle.

These beach towns offer a mix of relaxation, recreation, and community engagement, making them ideal choices for retirees.