Stonington, Maine, Named Most Beautiful Seaside Town in America

Deciding which seaside town is the most beautiful in America sounds like a daunting task, mostly because it's all in the eye of the beholder. What makes a town the most beautiful? Is it the views? The hustle and bustle of the town itself? Architecture? Peacefulness?

All of those things were considered when loveEXPLORING meticulously put together their list of the 33 most beautiful seaside towns in America. Maine is well-represented with six different destinations featured, including the number one spot.

LoveEXPLORING selected Stonington as the most beautiful seaside town in all of America. The underrated gem certainly has plenty of appeal as an alternative to far busier locations in Maine.

If you visit Stonington, you'll spend plenty of time on its main street taking in spectacular ocean views, visiting some of the galleries and shops, and perhaps grabbing yourself a cup of coffee or a scoop of ice cream.

You won't find any high-priced hotels or resorts in Stonington, either. There's a cozy motel right on the waterfront and plenty of Airbnbs available, but people in this small town have worked hard to keep it a sleepy little village.

Many have probably tried to keep Stonington a secret for their own selfish reasons. It's still a place where artists can go to feel inspired. The town has an opera house featuring plays, movie and trivia nights, and live music.

Both neighboring Deer Isle and Stonington have plenty of delicious food options as well. That includes a burgeoning coffee brand, 44 North, which operates a season shop in downtown Stonington. There's also a visit to Aragosta, an award-winning culinary adventure in Deer Isle.

Who Else Made the List of Most Beautiful Seaside Towns in America?

3. Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach continues to draw in visitors year after year thanks to its sprawling beach and vibrant downtown in the summer. But if you haven't take a trip recently, you've likely missed that new developments are being built, and some of the older hotels and motels are being renovated. OOB takes their seaside life seriously.

14. Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor seems to find its way onto every list involving seaside, cozy, or anything of the sort. Despite being busy than ever, Bar Harbor residents continue to make the town feel like summer with top-notch boat cruises, day trips, lobster dinners, and restful stays.

17. Ogunquit

For years, a neighboring town has been highlighted over and over again, but Ogunquit is starting to get its due. The soft sand beaches bring people back every year, but Ogunquit's wide array of shops and restaurants keep people there longer and longer every summer.

24. Camden

In many people's minds, Camden has become the retreat seaside town for the wealthy in Maine. There's plenty of truth to than blanket statement, but Camden remains a rarity as a seaside town that operates year-round. Summer is filled with festivals, food, art, and fun. The fall and winter offer residents and visitors plenty to do as well.

32. Kennebunkport

There's something special about Kennebunkport during each one of Maine's seasons. The summers are vibrant, with the sidewalks filled with people enjoying the quintessential Maine feel while snacking on fresh seafood, whoopie pies, or handmade ice cream.