The Best Beach Towns For Singles and Young Professional Adults

Key Takeaways

• The best beach towns for young adults combine affordability, safety, nightlife, and diverse beach activities.
• Beach living can increase happiness levels, providing recreational opportunities and beautiful sceneries.
• TripAdvisor’s “Top 25 Beaches” list features prominent destinations like Santa Monica, CA, and Virginia Beach, VA.
• Considering factors like maintenance, affordability, and beach quality is essential when choosing a beach town.
• Small beach towns offer a sense of community and a respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.
• Before committing to a beach town, thorough research and planning ensure a fulfilling living experience.

Choosing the best beach towns to live in can be tricky, especially if you’re a young adult. On the one hand, you want it to be affordable and safe. On the other hand, you don’t want it to be in the middle of nowhere and a boring place. It makes me wonder, where are the best beach towns for young adults?

What Are The Best Beach Towns For Young Adults?

In general, the best beach towns for young adults are affordable, safe, a good nightlife, and have enjoyable beach activities. Multiple beach towns fit this profile on the West Coast of the US in California and Oregon and on the East Coast in the states of New Jersey and Florida. Beach towns for young adults can also be found internationally in Europe, Central and South America, and Asia. 

Beach towns are a great place for young adults to live because they offer many exciting activities. They are filled with fun things to do and places to explore. Beach towns often offer exciting activities to enhance a young adult’s lifestyle. Many beach towns offer surfing, scuba diving, and other water sports that young adults can enjoy. Some beach towns also offer exciting nightlife that young adults can enjoy.

There are lots of things to consider when choosing a beach town, for instance, your budget, accommodation, and cost of living to name a few. However, it’s important to figure out your interests so that you are not traveling to travel. 

I’ll cover this and a lot more. Additionally, I’ll take the case scenarios of Erica, a 23-year-old who wants to live close to the beach, and Rick, a sporty 19-year-old who wants to live closer to the beach in a beach town, and see what they decide to do. Let’s take a closer look! 

Wait, I Have Some Recommendations Handpicked Just For You!

Before going ahead, I want you to take a look at some recommendations I’ve handpicked for you. I think these are some of the best beach products that are useful for all beachgoers, whether you eventually decide on the East Coast or the West Coast. These products are perfect for young adults! You can check them out and buy these products from Amazon.

What Makes a Great Beach Town for Young Adults? Best Beach Towns to Live in For Young Adults – Some Criteria

Some of the factors that make a great beach town for young adults are:

• Affordable housing
• Good nightlife
• Lots of things to do
• Plenty of job opportunities
• Great weather

When looking for a great beach town, it’s important to consider some key factors. One of the most important aspects is the beauty of the beaches. The sand should be white and clean, and the water should be crystal clear. 

If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the sun, you’ll want to find a town with beautiful beaches.

Another factor to consider is how close the town is to the beach. It’s much more convenient if you don’t have to drive too far from your home to get there. You also want to make sure that the beaches are well-maintained so that they’re enjoyable places to spend time.

Affordability is something else you’ll want to consider when choosing a beach town. Not everyone can afford to live in a luxurious coastal city, so finding more affordable towns is important without sacrificing the quality of life or safety.

Safety is another consideration when choosing a beach town. You’ll want to make sure that the city is safe and that there aren’t any dangerous areas nearby. Crime rates are an important consideration when determining safety.

The Beach and Activities that Young Adults Enjoy Most

The beach is a popular destination for young adults, as it offers a wide variety of activities that appeal to this age group.

The following table summarizes the key aspects of the recreational activities young adults enjoy at beach towns, the importance of the beach vibe and nightlife, and popular vacation spots for these activities. As an example, let’s take Hawaii as a potential place and examine it.

Category	Description
Activities at the Beach	Young adults often engage in activities such as swimming, sunbathing, surfing, building sandcastles, and playing frisbee at the beach. Beaches also provide a relaxed ambiance, making it a place for fun and sun.
Importance of Beach & Nightlife	For many young adults, vibrant nightlife plays a crucial role in their entertainment preferences, equally as important as the beach atmosphere. Especially during summer, beaches attract crowds due to school breaks and free time.
Popular Beach Destinations	Kailua in Hawaii is a top destination, known for its surfing, sailing, and kayaking opportunities. Another attraction nearby is Waimea Canyon, a popular spot for hiking enthusiasts.

I wrote an article dedicated to activities in Maui, Hawaii. Check it out here if you are interested! Beach Activities In Maui: Best Things To Do On The Beach  

Does Living by The Beach Make You Happier? Best Beach Towns for Young Adults

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on various factors, including lifestyle, work-life balance, and social circles. However, many young adults find that living by the beach increases their happiness levels and improves their quality of life.

When it comes to finding the perfect place to live, many people consider the beach. The ocean air, sunsets, and sand can be very appealing. But does living by the beach make you happier?

There is a lot of research that suggests the answer is yes! One study found that people who lived within walking distance of the beach were more likely to report higher life satisfaction and happiness levels.

Another study found that coastal residents were more likely to have better mental health.

Living by the beach also offers plenty of opportunities for recreation and relaxation. In fact, TripAdvisor’s “Top 25 Beaches” list features beaches globally and in the US. (Source) 

If you’re looking for a place to call home, consider one of these top 10 Beach Towns for Young Adults:

1. Santa Monica, CA
2. Virginia Beach, VA
3. Myrtle Beach, SC
4. Fort Lauderdale, FL
5. Daytona Beach Shores, FL
6. Honolulu, HI
7. Laguna Beach, CA
8. Ocean City, MD
9. San Diego, CA
10. 1Santa Cruz, CA

What’s Important For Erica In A Beach Town?

Let us take the case of Erica, a 23-year-old marketing assistant who enjoys doing things at the beach and traveling. She recently graduated college and is enjoying her free time before finding her dream job. She is currently single and loves anything fun that her friends do too. 

Erica currently lives near a beach but wants to move to a beach town where she can enjoy beach life more. She likes to enjoy quiet time at the beach and read. She does not feel comfortable going out at night by herself but enjoys going out with friends in the evening. 

She would love to be in a coastal town but does not want to compromise on location or location happiness as she only wants to move to a coastal town once she signs up for a job. She is probably a bit undecided because she is not sure what the town is like in real life and has not yet seen the place, but she wants to choose based on facts: 

*What is the town like in real life? 

*Is the town a fun place? 

*Is the town near beaches? 

*Does the town have good universities? 

*Is the town close to a friendly city? 

*Do friends like the town? 

*How does the town compare to other coastal towns?

What Beach Town Is the Most Affordable and Best Beach Towns to Live In

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on various factors, including the town’s cost of living, average salary, and the quality of life in the town. However, some affordable beach towns include Ensenada, Mexico; Asbury Park, NJ; and Gulf Shores, AL.

If you’re looking for a great beach town to live in, Hilton Head, SC, is your place! The cost of living is relatively affordable compared to other popular beach towns in America. You can find all kinds of activities to enjoy here, from golfing and fishing to shopping and dining.

The Hamptons are another great option if you’re looking for an affordable beach town to call home. This area is located on the eastern end of Long Island and has a lot to offer residents. From beautiful beaches and parks to excellent schools and hospitals, there’s something for everyone in the Hamptons.

Although these towns may be more expensive than others, they still offer a much lower cost of living than places like Miami or Los Angeles. So if you’re looking for a little bit of luxury without breaking the bank, these are worth considering!

What Is the Most Affordable Beach Town to Live in Florida – Best East Coast Beach Towns for Young Adults

The most affordable beach town to live in Florida is Daytona Beach and its outskirts. Edgewater is one of those beach towns between Daytona Beach and Cape Canaveral.

Florida has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. However, living near these gorgeous beaches isn’t cheap.

But there are some affordable beach towns where you can live without breaking the bank. Some of them may be best beach towns in Florida to live for young adults.

Here are five of the most affordable beach towns to live in Florida.

1. Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach is located in Pinellas County, Florida. 

-Clearwater Beach is a popular vacation destination in Florida.

-This town is known for its beautiful beaches and warm climate.

-Apartments in Clearwater Beach are popular among retirees and families.

-There are plenty of amenities nearby, such as grocery stores, restaurants, shopping malls, and entertainment venues.

-There are several parks and recreation centers available for residents to enjoy.

2. Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers Beach is a beautiful seaside town located in Lee County, Florida. 

-The area is known for its pristine white sand beaches and mild weather, which is perfect for tourism!

-It has a variety of dining options within walking distance from your hotel or your home, with many more restaurants nearby that are accessible by car if you don’t want to walk too far out into traffic-heavy roads.

-It has plenty of parks available around the city where residents may enjoy spending time outside during their free hours.

3. St. Petersburg Beach

St. Petersburg Beach is a city located in Pinello County, Florida, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and warm climate. It may be one of the best beaches for young adults

• St. Petersburg Beach is located in Florida on the Gulf Coast.
• Tourists flock to St. Petersburg Beach for its beautiful beaches and warm weather.
• St. Petersburg Beach is a vibrant city with a nightlife atmosphere and lots of shops nearby. 
• It is known for its many outdoor parks that residents enjoy.
• The city has easy access to beaches, parks, and shopping.

4. Sarasota

-Sarasota is a beautiful, relaxing area in Florida.

-The region is famous for its warm climate and beautiful surroundings.

-There are many attractions nearby, including museums, zoos, golf courses, and theme parks.

-The region is quiet and relaxing because of the low population density.

5. Cape Coral

-Cape Coral is often called the “City of Bridges.”

-Cape Coral is a bustling community with lots of things to do.

-There are plenty of places to eat, shop, and visit in Cape Coral.

-There are various parks and recreation centers available in this area.

-Living in Cape Coral is an excellent choice for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Where Does Rick Choose to Live? In A Beach Town or His Current City?

Look at Rick, a 19-year-old college student who lives close to the beach and enjoys spending time at the beach alone or with friends. He is young and likes to do things that bring fun memories and stories. Rick is practical but has an adventurous spirit, and he appreciates beaches around the world. He wants to get a job that should pay him well to live on the beach and travel around the world to different beaches and he’s thinking about what would be the best coastal towns to live in.

This nineteen-year-old college student is sporty and enjoys spending time at the beach alone, with friends, and water sports like kayaking. Will his choices lead to a good beach town? Maybe! Rick will fill out a questionnaire to determine his likes and dislikes in beach towns to start his search. Next, he will list his hopes for his choices and his preferences for the beach town activities he would like to do. 

Finally, he checks to see if the place he picks has good infrastructure for beach culture, like many water sports or bars and restaurants on the beach. Rick is excited to begin his search!

Rick is going to choose to live close to a beach and wants to explore different beaches around the world. He will choose a beach town close to where he’s currently living because it is easy to continue working and going to school at the same places. 

West Coast Beach Towns that Are Affordable for Young Adults – Best Beach Towns in the US

The most affordable beach towns are in California. These are the cheapest beach town options for those looking to live near a coastline or visit on a budget.

Many affordable beach towns on the west coast have not yet been mentioned. These towns offer beautiful stretches of coastline and are perfect for young adults looking to live on the beach without breaking the bank. However, it would be best to be cautious about storm risks, crime rates, or other drawbacks in these towns before deciding.

California has beautiful beaches and warm weather, but living there can be expensive. If you’re thinking about moving to California, here are three affordable beach towns where you can live comfortably without breaking the bank.

1. San Diego

San Diego is known for its sunny climate and gorgeous beaches. But did you know that it’s one of California’s most affordable places to live? San Diego ranks number one in affordability among all cities in California. This means finding an apartment or house for less than $500 per month. If you are interested in knowing more about San Diego life, I wrote a special article just about this beach town. Take a look here: Beach Activities in San Diego – Exciting Sports, Activities, Beach Vibe.  

2. Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is another popular destination for Californians looking for affordable housing. With a median rent price of $1,350 per month, you can easily afford a place to call home in Santa Cruz.

3. Newport Beach

Newport Beach is located between Los Angeles and Orange County. It’s a very affluent area, and residents enjoy a low cost of living. Depending on the neighborhood, rent prices range from $1,000 to $1,800 per month. So whether you’re looking to move to California or visit, these three affordable beach towns are sure to please!

4. Dana Point

Dana Point is located about 10 miles northeast of San Clemente. This city is known as the gateway to the beautiful beaches of San Clemente. Residents enjoy access to beautiful beaches, public parks, and public transit.

Is Living by The Beach Worth It for Young Adults?

Living by the beach is a dream for many people. The sun, sand, and waves are alluring, and the idea of spending every day in such a paradise is hard to resist. But is living by the beach worth it?

Living by the beach can be a great experience for young adults, as it can provide them with opportunities to socialize and enjoy the sun and sand. However, it is important to consider living in such an area, as it can be expensive.

The cost of living and the nightlife can be major factors in deciding which town to live in.

I wrote an article giving some cool viewpoints about whether living on the beach is worth it. Check it out here! Is Living on the Beach Worth It? Surprising Reasons To Choose The Surf 

Pros and Cons of Small Beach Towns for Young Adults

Small beach towns offer a slower-paced lifestyle that can appeal to young adults. They offer a sense of community and a close-knit feel, which can be appealing to those who want to escape the bustle of city life. 

It’s easier to feel the beach vibe in smaller beach towns.

Some of the benefits of living in a small beach town include ample access to outdoor recreation and enjoying the natural environment. Additionally, these towns are typically close to larger metropolitan areas, which can provide employment opportunities and other forms of entertainment.

However, there are also some drawbacks to living in a small beach town. For example, many of these towns can be quite isolated from major metropolitan areas, limiting job and entertainment options. Additionally, the cost of living in these towns is often higher than in surrounding communities.

International Beach Towns Worth Thinking About for Young Adults

When you think about beach towns, your mind probably goes to Florida or California. But there are plenty of other great beach towns worldwide worth considering if you’re looking for a place to live on the beach. Here are six international beach towns that offer great weather, plenty of activities, and excitement.

Some of the best international beach towns for young adults include Barcelona, Spain; Cancun, Mexico; and Byron Bay, Australia. These towns offer a great mix of nightlife, beaches, and culture, making them perfect for young adults looking to have a good time.

But there are some amazing beach towns outside the United States. Here are five favorites:

1. Bali, Indonesia

Bali has been voted one of the top 10 most romantic destinations globally. This island paradise offers incredible scenery, warm weather, and an abundance of things to do. It’s a perfect place to relax after a busy week of sightseeing. There are plenty of hotels and resorts where you can enjoy a relaxing vacation. There are also many restaurants and bars where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks.

2. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Playa del Carmen is located in Quintana Roo, Mexico. It’s a small town with a population of about 50,000 people. This city is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The climate is tropical, so you don’t have to worry about winter temperatures. Playa del Carmen has many hotels and resorts where you and your loved ones can spend quality time together.

3. Playa de las Americas, Costa Rica

Playa de las Americas is located in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. It is a small village with a population of about 2,000 people. Lush rainforests and tropical forests surround it. The area is home to many animals such as monkeys, sloths, and birds. There are no large cities nearby. Playa de las Americas is a quiet and peaceful place to relax. The area is home to several hotels and restaurants. It makes it an inexpensive destination for budget travelers.

4. San Sebastian, Spain

San Sebastian is located on the west coast of Spain near the French border. This town is known for its lively nightlife and vibrant culture. It’s an ideal place for those seeking a little bit of everything. There are plenty of bars, clubs, restaurants, shops, museums, and galleries to explore. There are also plenty of things to do in San Sebastian. You can surf, play golf, hike, bike, kayak, or relax on the beach.

5. Fuengirola, Spain

Fuengirola is a small coastal town located about 30 miles south of Malaga. It’s a popular destination for tourists looking for a quiet, peaceful break. This town offers visitors a variety of attractions. For example, you can go hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, snorkeling, diving, or sailing. There are also several parks and nature reserves nearby.

6. Cascais, Portugal

Cascais is located near Lisbon, Portugal. This town offers an abundance of things to do and see. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. There are also several museums and art galleries to visit. Several gyms and health clubs are available if you’re into sports and fitness. Cascais is also known for its nightlife. There are bars and nightclubs galore.  

Final Thoughts    

So, you’ve decided to live by the beach. That is wonderful news. But before you take that leap and buy a house in a beach town, you need to research.

I’ve covered above what makes a great town for young adults, some affordable beach towns to live in, what activities young adults like to do in a beach town, and some international beach towns to consider living in. Take these tips and apply them to your situation for your next trip. The best thing you can do for living on a beach is have good planning and then take action to make it happen!

Frequently Asked Questions‍

Why Is Santa Barbara Considered One of The Best Beach Towns for Young Adults?

Santa Barbara is considered one of the best beach towns for young adults because it offers a year-round comfortable climate, beautiful beaches, a vibrant downtown area with live music and entertainment, and various outdoor recreational activities.

What Makes Myrtle Beach a Desirable Place to Live for Young Adults?

Myrtle Beach is a popular beach town for young adults due to its lively atmosphere, miles of sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, abundance of water activities such as surfing, and the presence of various beachfront bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

What Are the Attractions of Cannon Beach for Young Adults?

Cannon Beach is known for its scenic beauty, including the iconic Haystack Rock, miles of sandy beaches, charming downtown area with unique shops and art galleries, and a laid-back atmosphere that appeals to young adults looking for a relaxed beach town vibe.

What Makes Virginia Beach a Great Place to Live for Young Adults?

Virginia Beach offers young adults a combination of a vibrant city atmosphere and a picturesque beach town setting. It has a lively boardwalk with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, along with beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.

What Are Some of The Attractions of Tybee Island for Young Adults?

Tybee Island offers young adults a laid-back beach town experience with beautiful beaches, a historic lighthouse, water sports activities, beachfront bars and restaurants, and a lively nightlife scene.

What Makes Rehoboth Beach a Popular Choice for Young Adults?

Rehoboth Beach is liked by young adults for its vibrant boardwalk, scenic beach views, great surf spots, various events and festivals, and a diverse range of dining and entertainment options.

Why Is Long Beach Considered a Desirable Beach Town for Young Adults?

Long Beach offers young adults a mix of urban amenities and a beach lifestyle. It has a vibrant downtown area, plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities, miles of sandy beaches, and a thriving arts and music scene.

What Are the Attractions of Daytona Beach for Young Adults?

Daytona Beach is a popular choice for young adults due to its famous Daytona International Speedway, thriving nightlife, beautiful beaches, water sports activities, and various entertainment options along the beachfront.

Why Is Seaside Considered One of The Best Beach Towns for Young Adults?

Seaside is considered one of the best beach towns for young adults due to its picturesque setting, charming beachfront cottages, trendy shops and dining options, and a range of outdoor recreational activities such as biking, surfing, and beach volleyball.