Small Coastal Towns Worth Visiting

4 min read

There is something uniquely restorative about the sea. For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of major cities, small coastal towns offer a different kind of magic. From the rugged cliffs of Cornwall to the pastel-colored harbors of the Mediterranean, these destinations prove that the best things often come in small packages.

Vernazza: The Jewel of Cinque Terre

Vernazza is arguably the most picturesque of the five villages that make up Italy's Cinque Terre. With no car traffic and a small natural harbor, it feels like a place frozen in time. The village is a cluster of colorful houses clinging to a steep cliff, with narrow alleys known as caruggi winding between them. You can spend your morning hiking the trail from Monterosso for a breathtaking approach, then reward yourself with a seafood lunch by the water.

The main square, Piazza Marconi, is the heart of the village. Here, you can watch the local fishermen bring in their catch or just enjoy a gelato while looking out at the Ligurian Sea. For a different perspective, take a boat tour to see the town from the water. The church of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia, built right on the water's edge, is a landmark that defines the town's unique character. Vernazza is small, but its beauty is immense.

St Ives: An Artist's Haven in Cornwall

Located on the southwestern tip of England, St Ives has long been a magnet for artists, drawn by its incredible light and stunning scenery. The town is built around a busy harbor where turquoise water laps against golden sand. You can wander through the maze of cobbled streets in the 'Downalong' area, discover small art galleries, and visit the Tate St Ives museum which overlooks Porthmeor Beach.

St Ives is also a fantastic base for coastal walks. The path toward Zennor offers dramatic cliff views and hidden coves. The town's beaches are among the best in the UK, offering everything from surfing at Porthmeor to calm swimming at Porthminster. Even in the cooler months, the town has a cozy charm, with plenty of traditional pubs and seafood restaurants serving local crab and lobster. It is a place that invites you to slow down.

Collioure: Colors of the French Mediterranean

Nestled where the Pyrenees meet the Mediterranean, Collioure is a gem of the Vermilion Coast in southern France. Its stunning light and vibrant colors once inspired famous painters like Henri Matisse and André Derain. The town is dominated by the Royal Castle and the iconic church tower of Notre-Dame-des-Anges, which stands right at the edge of the bay. The small pebble beaches are perfect for a quick dip in the clear blue water.

Walking through the Mouré district, you will find narrow streets lined with brightly painted houses and flower-filled balconies. Collioure is also famous for its anchovies, and you can visit local workshops to see how they are still processed by hand. The atmosphere here is distinctly Catalan, reflecting its proximity to the Spanish border. A walk up to the Fort Saint-Elme provides a spectacular view of the town, the vineyards, and the sea.

Finding Your Own Coastal Retreat

While Vernazza, St Ives, and Collioure are well-known, Europe's coastline is dotted with hundreds of similar gems. The key to finding a great coastal town is often to look just outside the major tourist hubs. In Portugal, look beyond the Algarve to the Alentejo coast. In Greece, consider the smaller islands of the Cyclades that are not named Santorini or Mykonos. Even in busy regions, you can often find a quiet harbor by taking a local bus or ferry.

When visiting these small towns, try to stay overnight rather than just visiting for a few hours. The atmosphere changes completely once the day-trippers leave. You get to see the local life, enjoy a quiet dinner by the harbor, and wake up to the sound of the waves. These towns are often at their best in the 'shoulder seasons' of spring and autumn, when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are much thinner.

Practical Tips for Seaside Stays

Coastal weather can be fickle, so always pack a windbreaker or a light sweater, even in the summer. If you plan on hiking the coastal paths, bring sturdy shoes with good grip, as the terrain can be rocky and uneven. Many small coastal towns have limited parking, so it is often better to arrive by train or bus if possible. This also allows you to enjoy the scenic journey without the stress of navigating narrow, winding roads.

Support the local economy by buying from small shops and eating at family-run restaurants. Coastal communities often rely heavily on tourism, and your choices can make a positive impact. Finally, be mindful of the environment. Stick to marked trails to protect the fragile coastal ecosystems and always take your trash with you. By being a responsible traveler, you help ensure these beautiful places remain preserved for future generations.

The takeaway

Small coastal towns offer a unique blend of natural beauty, local culture, and a slower pace of life that is perfect for a relaxing escape from the everyday.

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