Dreaming of ocean breezes for your next summer travel assignment? Avoid crowded beaches and long lines at popular tourist destinations and plan your next Aureus travel assignment around these six charming U.S. beach towns. From delicious food, whimsical streets, and breathtaking views, to exhilarating outdoor adventures, you’ll quickly fall in love with these seaside gems. So from coast to coast, here are a handful of charming beach towns to add to your travel bucket list for a truly relaxing summer assignment.
1. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
A small beach town near Carmel Bay, Carmel-by-the-Sea’s stunning ocean views, fairytale-like cottages, and quirky cobblestone streets are straight out of a storybook. The area is known for its fine wine and dining scene, and in-between elegant meals you’ll find quite a few local art galleries, secret courtyard gardens, and breathtaking viewpoints to explore. Spend a day cruising on electric bikes along the charming storefronts and whimsical cottages that line Carmel Village, take a quick drive to the iconic Pebble Beach, or watch the sunset on the white sands of Carmel Beach. With travel jobs near Carmel-by-the-Sea, no matter where you’re standing, you’re always within walking distance to the water.
2. Mount Desert Island, Maine
Of the thousands of tiny islands dotting Maine’s coastline, Mount Desert Island is the perfect quiet getaway for some “me” time with nature in-between travel assignments. On top of its beautiful scenery, many outdoor enthusiasts love Mount Desert because it’s a dream to hike, swim, fish, canoe, or bike through Acadia National Park. Visitors can spend the day hunting for sea glass on the beach, getting splashed at the iconic Thunder Hole, rock climbing up scenic seaside cliffs, or kayaking alongside wildlife in crystal clear waters. And after a full day of exploring head back to town to enjoy some fresh seafood and shopping at Bar Harbor
3. Capitola, California
A small, seaside town along the northern shores of Monterey Bay, Capitola has an unmistakable, colorful charm that you can’t help but want to visit. Initially one of the first beach resorts in California, its seaside shops and beachfront restaurants are truly picture-perfect! Spend a leisurely day in the water at Capitola Beach, then take a short walk inland to Shadowbrook for award-winning food and drinks for dinner. While you’re on assignment there, take a ride up in Capitola’s cable car for a stunning panoramic view of the entire town.
4. Coos Bay, Oregon
For travelers who wish to escape the rising summer heat, the Pacific Northwest maintains comfortable temperatures year-round. Whether it’s lighthouses, rugged landscapes, or trendy towns, Oregon has it all. One of the largest and oldest coastal cities in Oregon, Coos Bay attracts visitors because of its good vibes and abundance of exhilarating outdoor adventures. Just outside the city sits a 40-mile stretch of forest, ocean, and desert in the Dunes National Recreation Area, where you can spend the day hiking scenic trails, sandboarding, riding dune buggies, or paddling along sand beaches.
5. St. Augustine, Florida
Travel assignments in Florida are ideal for any time of the year, and St. Augustine is no exception. This beautiful city sits on Florida’s northeast coast and is known as one of the oldest European settlements. Take in the stunning Spanish architecture sprinkled throughout historic downtown as you wander through cobblestone streets. Enter through The City Gate to peruse unique shops, visit quaint cafes, and listen to music on lively St. George Street. Or head to the beach to explore Castillo de San Marcos and walk a few miles along the beautiful coastline. This charming, historic city of St. Augustine is a little slice of history in northeast Florida.
6. Cape May, New Jersey
When you hear about travel assignments around Cape May, think colorful bed and breakfasts, Victorian architecture, and a rich history with pirates. Located at the southernmost tip of New Jersey, Cape May is lively all summer with water adventures, culinary events, and oceanside lounging. Visitors can spend their days strolling along the promenade, exploring downtown, or find some peace and quiet at Pearl Beach, one of the least crowded beaches in the area
We hope this list inspires you to hit the road and explore these (and more) charming beach towns over the course of the summer! And remember, new postings are added often! Check this page or the Aureus Medical Group website regularly to see if a position in your specialty has been posted.