If you’re dreaming of owning a beautiful beach home near the ocean, here are ten exceptional coastal locations that offer stunning views, vibrant communities, and strong investment potential:
North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Why Buy Here: Affordable prices, high rental demand, and Southern charm.
Median Home Price: $360,747 | Gross Cap Rate: 8.10%
North Myrtle Beach includes Cherry Grove, Crescent Beach, and Ocean Drive—each with its own flavor of fun. Enjoy shag dancing at local beach bars, fish off the iconic Cherry Grove Pier, or hit the links at top-rated golf courses. With a friendly atmosphere and wide, family-friendly beaches, it’s perfect for relaxed living or a lively vacation home.
Things to Do:
- Stroll Main Street and catch a live beach band
- Visit Alligator Adventure or Barefoot Landing
- Golf at Tidewater or Surf Golf & Beach Club
Dauphin Island, Alabama
Why Buy Here: Secluded island life and booming investment appeal
Median Home Price: ~$812,500 | Gross Cap Rate: 8.00%
Known for its untouched beaches and bird sanctuaries, Dauphin Island offers a peaceful, small-town vibe with serious natural beauty. The area is gaining popularity, making now a great time to invest. Explore historic Fort Gaines, kayak the bay, or simply unwind with a sunset from your porch.
Things to Do:
- Tour the Dauphin Island Sea Lab & Estuarium
- Bike through Audubon Bird Sanctuary trails
- Charter a boat for dolphin watching or fishing
Okaloosa Island, Florida
Why Buy Here: Prime Gulf Coast location with family appeal
Median Home Price: ~$522,417 | Gross Cap Rate: 7.70%
Nestled between Destin and Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa Island boasts sugar-white beaches and turquoise waters. It’s a favorite for families, retirees, and tourists looking for a quieter alternative to bustling nearby beaches.
Things to Do:
- Explore The Boardwalk with dining, shopping, and nightlife
- Visit Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
- Fish from Okaloosa Island Pier or relax at John C. Beasley Park
Hatteras Island, North Carolina
Why Buy Here: Unspoiled beauty, rich history, and adventure
Median Home Price: ~$565,034 | Gross Cap Rate: 7.30%
Stretching 50 miles along the Outer Banks, Hatteras offers peaceful coastal living and endless water sports. Perfect for those craving tranquility, with some of the best fishing, surfing, and kiteboarding on the East Coast.
Things to Do:
- Climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
- Go windsurfing in Pamlico Sound
- Visit the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum
Navarre, Florida
Why Buy Here:Relaxed Emerald Coast charm with eco-tourism appeal
Median Home Price: ~$419,000 | Gross Cap Rate: 7.10%
Often called “Florida’s Best-Kept Secret,” Navarre is a peaceful, family-friendly retreat. With pristine beaches and a strong sense of community, it’s ideal for full-time residents or vacation home buyers.
Things to Do:
- Snorkel the Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary
- Explore Gulf Islands National Seashore
- Visit the Sea Turtle Conservation Center
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Why Buy Here: Lively community with nature and entertainment
Median Home Price: ~$529,000
With beautiful beaches and an active local lifestyle, Gulf Shores blends outdoor adventure and relaxation. From kayaking in back bays to hitting the water park with kids, there’s always something to do.
Things to Do:
- Bike or hike Gulf State Park’s 28 miles of trails
- Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
- Go boating or paddleboarding in Little Lagoon
Daytona Beach Florida
Why Buy Here: Affordable coastal living with big attractions
Median Home Price: ~$246,086
Daytona offers a lively beachfront city with a lower cost of living. It’s ideal for buyers looking to invest in oceanfront condos or enjoy year-round sunshine with race cars, concerts, and festivals.
Things to Do:
- Attend events at Daytona International Speedway
- Walk the historic Daytona Beach Boardwalk
- Visit the Museum of Arts & Sciences
Ormond Beach, Florida
Why Buy Here: Historic charm and quieter coastal lifestyle
Median Home Price: ~$389,993
Ormond Beach is Daytona’s quieter neighbor, offering riverfront homes, historic trails, and lush state parks. It’s a perfect fit for retirees or families seeking peaceful beach living.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail
- Kayak the Tomoka River
- Visit Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens
Vera Beach Florida
Why Buy Here: Upscale living and booming value
Median Home Price: ~$499,000
Vero Beach is one of the hottest markets on Florida’s Treasure Coast. With strong price growth and cultural flair, it’s ideal for luxury buyers and long-term investors.
Things to Do:
- Stroll the boutiques and cafés of Central Beach
- Explore McKee Botanical Garden or Riverside Theatre
- Paddleboard on the Indian River Lagoon
Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Why Buy Here: Affordable and fun for families and investors
Median Home Price: ~$347,000
Fort Walton offers great value for buyers seeking a beach lifestyle with museums, military history, and family attractions—all wrapped in a friendly coastal town vibe.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Air Force Armament Museum
- Enjoy family fun at the Emerald Coast Science Center
- Shop and dine at the Fort Walton Beach Boardwalk
These coastal towns offer a blend of natural beauty, community charm, and investment opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a serene retreat or a bustling beach town, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.
