5 Idyllic Coastal Destinations to Visit This Summer and What to Pack for Each

I’m an east-coast girl at heart. I think New England is so charming with its rich history, beautiful architecture, and quaint little towns that each have their own personality. Every summer, my family and I visit our favorite coastal spots, so I need to pack outfits to match. Provincetown is first on our itinerary, and I’m thinking bright colors and trendy accessories to match its playful energy. Next, I’ll be basking seaside on Martha’s Vineyard, so beachwear is a must. Thirty miles east of Martha’s Vineyard is the island of Nantucket, which has a quiet-luxury, nautical-inspired style. Then there’s Newport, which is so fitting with the old-money aesthetic—it’s famous for the regal mansions owned by wealthy families during the Gilded Age. And lastly, the coastal, mountainous wonderland of Acadia, where chic activewear is necessary for all the outdoor activities. I’m currently packing as I write this, so keep reading to see what I’m bringing for each destination.

This pristine island has a nautical and quiet-luxury aesthetic that’s all its own.  Must-see places: Sconset Bluff Walk, Jetties Beach, and Nantucket Inn

A crisp blue-and-white button-up says “East Coast summer” to me. Pair it with a bikini for the beach or with linen trousers for an elegant dinner.

A sunhat is the chicest way to protect your face from the sun. The ribbon accent on this one is so adorable.

I have a thing for ocean-inspired jewelry. I love how these studs glimmer in the sunshine.

Midi skirts are a must whether or not you’re on vacation. They look so elevated without even trying. At under $50, this one is such a steal.

This wins my award for the best SPF lip balm. It imparts a sheer wash of color that looks like you just bit into a cherry popsicle. It also tastes so sweet and delectable.

These iconic sandals will always be in style. The brown color matches every summer outfit.

Located on the tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown is a super-creative and energetic destination that's popular among the LGBTQ+ community. Must-see places: Commercial Street, Race Point Beach, Herring Cove Beach

Yeah, you’ll stunt on the beach in this swimsuit. The high-leg cut is retro, but the Barbie-pink color is so 2023.

If you could bottle up summer nostalgia, it would smell like this sunscreen. It has tropical notes of coconut, banana, aloe, and even swimsuit lycra.

It’s a Barbiecore summer, so I’m adding a pop of pink to every outfit with these sunnies.

Keep this all-in-one lippie on deck. It plumps up your lips with spicy ginger and capsicum as well as cooling menthol. These come in a whole rainbow of colors, but you already know I’ll be reaching for the pink one.

Semi-permanent tattoos are the perfect way to test out a tat—you get the look minus the commitment. These butterfly ones are so delicate.

Make a splash in this electric-teal one-piece. The zipper detail is so trendy.

Only an hour ferry ride from Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard has adorable 19th century cottages and beautiful, expansive beaches, including the one where Jaws was filmed. Must see places: South Beach, Aquinnah, Camp Meeting Association Cottages

White one-pieces are so classic and beautifully complement sun-kissed skin.

The kind of accessory you’d find in Ariel’s grotto.

Raffia is undoubtedly the trend of the summer, so this tote is a must-have.

Cat-eye sunnies elevate every beach-day look.

Airy linen dresses look so angelic.

This cream is rich and moisturizing yet light as a cloud. The founder of Current State, Emily Parr, lives on the island of Martha’s Vineyard.

Newport has such rich history and is dripping in old money. Must-see places: Newport mansions, Cliff Walk, Ocean Drive

The perfect pair of sophisticated shades.

Such a chic accessory. I love to wear it in my hair or tie it on my bag.

You know this is the perfume that all rich girls wear.

Freshwater pearls and gold add elegance to any outfit.

How precious is this dress?

You can wear raffia head to toe with these sandals.

Acadia National Park is an outdoorsy getaway that’s adventurous and peaceful at the same time. Must-see places: Cadillac Mountain, Ravens Nest, Bar Harbor

ALO makes the cutest workout dresses that are also super-high quality. I suggest you add this one to your collection.

Air Maxes feel like walking on a literal cloud, so you can wear them all day long.

If you don’t have anything from Sporty & Rich yet, you need to get your hands on something. The cool-girl brand makes the most sophisticated activewear and leisure staples, including this green cap.

This tinted sunscreen has a mineral formula but still blends flawlessly for the perfect dewy glow. 

Wide, stretchy headbands have made their comeback, and I’m here for it. I’m packing these to keep my hair out of my face and look cute at the same time.

This app is a convenient way to make sure you’re fueled up for an active day of hiking and swimming. Download the app to see subscription prices.

Up next: I'm an Editor Who Prioritizes Wellness​​—32 Items I Always Travel With

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