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Have you ever heard the words “all aboard!” heard? and not feel a wave of excitement running through your veins?
Big chance.
With airfares reportedly skyrocketing, there hasn’t been a better summer in recent years ditch the runway and travel the old fashioned wayas we chug along beautiful coastal paths to a destination that makes the scenic journey feel like half the journey.
The difference here is that you’re not just stuck to the window seat during the ride. This is not a tour; you’re actually going to a place worth going on vacation to.
Amtrak, the most notable name for American trains, because we trail behind Asia and Europe revealed some real bangers.
These 4 postcard beach destinations are a mix of hidden gems and well-known iconsbut they all guarantee a fun summer holiday full of sun and sand.
Unfortunately, that means sand gaps for the ride back…
4)Portland, Maine🦞
There are countless reasons to visit Maine, which seems to be the last frontier for tourism in the East, until you realize how many locals move here from neighboring states.
In fact, many Canadians have sworn off crossing into Maine, driven largely by political divisions, leaving much of Maine craving a tourism boom, including Orchard Beach, one of the state’s most beautiful beach towns.
Amtrak praises the Downeaster from Boston as one of America’s best seaside adventures, swapping clam chowdah for lobstah sandwiches.
I just keep typing over the sound of the crickets…
The infamous, walkable city of Portland will be your base to explore maritime history, devour various seafood concoctions and enjoy ample beach days at cozy coves and even famous Acadia National Park a short drive away.
Better yet, Portland is largely considered a safe destination. It currently has an impressive score of 85/100 on our safety index:
3) Charleston, South Carolina 🦪
Charleston is undoubtedly more popular for its craggy history and Southern roots than for its scenic coastline; However, a trip here without enjoying a day of sun and sand, at least admiring one of the city’s famous restaurant menus and skipping the main course.
No, we’re not talking about that Waffle HouseBut don’t tempt me with a good time either…
Amtrak lives up to its ‘hype’Palmetto‘ route as a grand journey to reach one of the South’s coolest cities that happens to have really nice beaches like nearby Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms, and Folly Beach.
When you imagine the South, Charleston is it: sweet tea on the porch, everything fried, and horse-drawn carriages climbing past centuries-old homes.
It is also safe. The current Safety Index score of 89/100 is even higher than that of Portland:
2) Miami, Florida🪩
It’s hard to go to Miami and not have a good time. While South Beach isn’t my cup of tea, many other parts of the city are.
When I visited Miami I boarded the Brightline train, but with the weekly rumors of bankruptcy troubles you might still want to familiarize yourself with Amtrak, a mainstay in rail travel.
In this case, Amtrak has some strong bragging rights for the entire East Coast Silver service route, which is one of the best options to reach the “Magic City”.
Whether you plan to soak up the culture through neighborhoods like Little Havana, find a sleepy beach in Key Biscayne, or live in a city that may be known more for its nightlife than its expansive coastline, Amtrak believes they are the most memorable option for an epic vacation.
The only drawback is safety, which is currently turning back the clock Miami Vice era with a current low Safety Index score of only 63/100:
1) San Clemente, California 🌊
Did you know that between San Diego and LA there is a small town that is decorated down to the last detail like a typical Spanish village?
It’s true – welcome to San Clemente.
This Orange County paradise is a surfer’s paradise, a foodie’s paradise and a perfect beach getaway for beach lovers, with boutique hotels dotting the gleaming Pacific coast.
Personally, it’s one of my favorite day trips from San Diego, which is why Amtrak praises it Pacific Surfliner line, which transports passengers from one scenic coastal town to another.
Whether you’re catching some waves, devouring some fish tacos, or blending in like a local where dress codes never apply, San Clemente is one of the most relaxing vacations you’ll ever have, and you can arrive in style aboard Amtrak’s best summer ride.
