Aug 314 min read

East Coast September Travel Edition

September is a beautiful time to visit the East coast. Places like Nantucket, the Cape, Newport Rhode Island, Martha’s Vineyard and the Hamptons are among the most popular East coast destinations. Take it from a a girl board and green on the east coast that these places are magnificent; but I know some pretty amazing spots that are less crowded, less expensive and still provide all the charming quaint vibes you’re looking for this summer or next.

Growing up in Southern New England you have access to water all around you. The ocean and sea is a way of life. Farm lands, pastures and the countryside mingle with seaside towns and villages. It’s a dreamy aesthetic especially in the summer. Every year we spend some of the summer in New England to see family and friends. We frequent our go to places and it always feels nostalgic.

Travel just an hour south of Boston MA and visit a small town called Dartmouth. It is a hidden gem with very little tourists. It’s home to mainly locals or second home summer homes.

In Dartmouth, you will find all the familiar advantages of a city like a mall, a busy route 6 and most of its businesses populate one main area. But if you venture off the beat and path of this town; you will find a rather preppy New England coastal lure. A little village called padanaram is the prettiest coastal village that looks like it’s from a hallmark movie. We typically stay within this seaside village every summer. We lived near this seaside village when we lived in New England and it feels like a piece of home.

WHERE TO STAY

First book your stay. Dartmouth provides plenty of cute Airbnb’s to choose from.

Here are a couple we have visited and enjoyed

We also love this waterfront home. It’s on the pricier side as it sits right in the village and overlooks the harbor. It sleeps 9 and is pet-friendly. Kayaks come complimentary and is a great sunset activity. Laundry a minute from the doorstep.

Cost-effective option. Only a 3-minute walk to shopping and restaurants Great outdoor deck and yard.

WHERE WE EAT

Farm and coast market is where you need to go grab lunch.

Sit outside and get a view of the nearby harbor with sailboats that dock its bay. Drink their homemade lemonade, eat their meatball sub or fur a lighter option their salads are excellent the array of pastries and baked goods are to die for. Within their cafe is their market with an amazing selection of wine, cheese and elevated fresh ingredients.

For dinner go to the Sail Loft

The mussels are excellent! The nautical theme design is right in par with their New England fare dishes.

If you want to live like a real local then you need to go to Evelynsdrivein for their fried clams. This place is slamming in the summer and a summer staple. It’s a family-owned seafood shack open seasonally and is located on Nanaquaket Pond in quaint Tiverton which is about 25 minutes from Dartmouth.

For ice cream like a real new Englanders; Gulf Hill Ice Cream Bucket they also carry food that’s a great options for littles. Here you will also find their local park overlooking the harbor. You can swim in the harbor too and catch the sunset.

Another great spot is Dockside ice cream

WHERE WE SHOP

Right by farm coast market in the historic harbor side village dots an array of boutique shops. Our two favorites are

Found Tresurses Co. we sometimes find items here for our clients in Florida. This is a classic New England coastal vibe at its finest. If you love the movie practical magic then this store is for you. The vibe totally reminds me of this movie and Sandra Bullock shop from the film.

Strawberry Moon Savannah and I have a slight crystal obsession. Love their earrings here too.

Outside of the village you will find some stunning landscapes and places to discover outdoors.

Enjoy wine at Westport Rivers - a stunning vineyard located just outside of Dartmouth. Beautiful views and there are often musical acts in the summer.

Grab an iced latte from Davoll's General Store and enjoy the bookstore, home decor and general store. The building is quintessential farmland-New England.

Their food is also excellent from their cafe. Sit outside on their picnic table and enjoy the view.

WHAT WE WEAR

Summer in New England is very casual. It’s all about breathable fabrics like linen. Layering is super important for visiting New England as the weather can be a little moody. Pack denim cut-offs, linen white shorts, a striped button-up, woven sandals, rain jacket, and sneakers. Include a light cardigan and a simple flowy summer dress in white or black. Bring a big woven hat, a black or white one-piece bathing suit, and a scarf. Stripes, structured pieces, and classic patterns are a must. Here is a great capsule wardrobe to build on.