17 Best Beach Towns in the U.S.

"An island on the Gulf of Mexico famed for its east–west orientation that makes it a global repository for seashells—a pastime so characteristic it has its own local term for stooping over the sand to collect finds. Large protected areas, including a wildlife refuge, make it a haven for bird-watching, kayaking, fishing, and picnicking. Visitor commerce is small-scale: a few local custard and seafood spots and a summertime farmers market round out the low-key experience." - Anne Olivia Bauso Anne Olivia Bauso Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines