The United States is adorned with coastal gems that have withstood the sands of time, preserving tales of bygone eras. In this maritime journey, we unveil the histories of the seven oldest beach towns in the U.S., each holding a unique chapter in the nation’s narrative.
1. Cape May, New Jersey: Establishing Coastal Roots in 1766
Historical Genesis: Cape May, America’s oldest coastal town, became a tourist magnet in 1766. Philadelphians embarked on beach journeys via stagecoaches, sloops, schooners, or horse-drawn vehicles.
2. Revere Beach, Massachusetts: Public Beach Pioneer (1896)
Beachside Revelation: Revere Beach, the country’s first public beach since 1896, witnessed the closure of a colossal roller coaster in the late 1970s, marking the end of an amusement park era.
3. Ocracoke, North Carolina: 18th Century Maritime Boom
Nautical Renaissance: Ocracoke thrived in the 18th century, bustling with fishermen, farmers, pilots, and mariners dedicated to preserving vital waterways, fostering a boom in prosperity.
4. Key West, Florida: Southernmost Coastal Expedition
Tropical Sojourn: The southernmost point of the continental U.S., Key West, beckons with tales of a lengthy coastal journey, blending maritime adventures and tropical allure.
5. Pensacola, Florida: Conquistador’s Sixteenth-Century Seizure
Colonial Chronicles: Pensacola, seized by Spanish conquistadors in the sixteenth century, experienced numerous ownership changes, weaving a complex tapestry of colonial history.
6. Astoria, Oregon: Goonies Film Fame and 17th-Century Origin
- Cinematic Charms: Beyond its fame in the 1985 film “The Goonies,” Astoria’s history dates back to the 17th century, harmonizing cinematic allure with deep-rooted coastal heritage.
7. Newport, Rhode Island: Elite Summers and Vanderbilts’ Retreat
Summertime Elegance: Newport, a retreat for America’s elite, holds a historical haven for politicians, movie stars, and affluent families like the Vanderbilts during summer sojourns.