Eight Hidden Beach Towns Experts Recommend for Retirement

Many people approaching retirement picture life by the water. But as some of the most popular beach towns become crowded with new residents, others are searching for a quieter alternative. Because choosing the wrong place can be one of the biggest financial mistakes retirees make, it pays to do some research before deciding where to settle.

This roundup highlights several lesser-known beach towns that real estate agents say are worth a look.

Editor's note: All housing data comes from Zillow unless otherwise noted.

Waveland, Mississippi

Average home price: $220,496

If you want a coastal spot that still feels under the radar, Waveland may be a strong choice.

“Waveland has about 8 miles of beaches, and unlike a lot of other places on the Gulf Coast, it doesn't allow hotels and other businesses to be built right on the beach,” says Ben Mizes, president of Clever Real Estate.

That means a quieter setting where you can enjoy the shoreline without too much congestion.

Palacios, Texas

Average home price: $190,149

Palacios offers retirees a small-town feel and a slower pace. With plenty of waterfront views, it's a place where you can enjoy the sun throughout the year.

“Retirees like this area because it is relatively quiet,” says Mizes.

Colonial Beach, Virginia

Average home price: $326,232

Colonial Beach is a little different from the typical beach town. It sits on the Potomac River rather than the ocean, but it still has sandy beaches and a well-known boardwalk.

“It's worth the visit, and offers a lot more than the typical ocean-side beach towns in Virginia,” says Mizes. “Besides a convenient location to both Washington, D.C. and Richmond, many restaurants, and opportunities for fishing and kayaking, what more could you want in retirement?”

Deltaville, Virginia

Average home price: $446,606

Deltaville lies between the mouths of the Rappahannock and Piankatank rivers on the western shore of Chesapeake Bay. With more than 25 marinas, it's easy to see why it is called the “boating capital of the Chesapeake Bay.”

“Buy here if you want to keep a boat, not just look at the water,” says Daniel Yoon, a real estate advisor at eXp Realty in Richmond, Virginia.

Cape Charles, Virginia

Average home price: $407,291

Near the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, Cape Charles combines a charming small-town atmosphere with easy access to the beach. Retirees can enjoy boating, golf, a historic downtown filled with shops and restaurants, and several hiking and biking trails.

“A retiree who wants to buy before the rest of the market finds it should look here soon,” says Yoon. “Check flood zone maps and the cost of flood insurance before you make an offer.”

Onancock, Virginia

Average home price: $299,876

“Onancock is a small harbor town that most people drive past,” says Yoon. For retirees seeking a quieter lifestyle, that may be exactly the appeal.

If you're thinking about the town, Yoon suggests seeing it at different times of year. “A quiet water town in summer can feel very empty in winter,” he says.

Northport, Michigan

Average home price: $857,523

“Northport is at the tip of the pinky finger of Michigan's mitt,” says Sander Scott, broker at Net Real Estate.

The town has public beaches, a marina, and a walkable downtown. For retirees who want a slower lifestyle without giving up the seasons, it could be a good match.

“For people who want to enjoy the water and have an overall active outdoor lifestyle while being connected to a smaller community, Northport is a great place to consider,” says Scott.

Suttons Bay, Michigan

Average home price: $652,616

With a marina, sandy beaches, and plenty of dining options, Suttons Bay may appeal to many retirees. Winters are colder than in some other beach towns, but for some people, the changing seasons are part of the draw.

“Retirees who want the character of a smaller waterfront community while being within close proximity to regional services find Suttons Bay a good match,” says Scott.

Bottom line

As you think about retirement destinations, it helps to run the numbers and figure out when retirement may be possible. After that, you can start exploring places that interest you. Before buying in a new area, consider spending an extended period there or renting first to see whether it feels like home.

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