It’s the New Year and your thoughts might already be turning towards your summer vacation, so maybe you’d like to consider some of the US fishing villages that offer a warm welcome. Coast to coast, US fishing villages call to you with promises of afternoon strolls along quaint docksides, bobbing boats and the quintessential fish and chips. Whether you’re looking for a weekend break or a longer vacation, these fishing villages in the US are a good choice.
As you wander along the docks, the salty air merges with the sounds of seagulls and fishermen calling to one another, creating an ambiance that is both peaceful and industrious. The local seafood markets offer fresh catches of the day, and visitors can watch as boats unload their bounty of shrimp and fish, a testament to the town's deep maritime roots. Despite its cinematic fame, Bayou La Batre remains a hidden gem for travelers seeking an undiluted experience of a traditional Gulf Coast fishing community. Here, the simplicity of life is its most charming trait, drawing those who appreciate a quiet escape that is rich with culture and history.
Newport, Oregon is a picturesque fishing village located on the Oregon coast, just south of the Columbia River. It is known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the Yaquina Bay Bridge, and its abundance of seafood. Every year, millions of pounds of albacore tuna, Dungeness crab, and shrimp are pulled from the waters and brought to the docks of Newport.
The town of Newport is a great place to explore the outdoors, with plenty of beaches, lighthouses, and parks to enjoy. There is also a variety of shopping and dining options for visitors to take advantage of. The Oregon Coast Aquarium is located in Newport and is home to a variety of marine life, including sea lions, sharks, and octopuses.
For those looking for a more educational experience, the Hatfield Marine Science Center is located on the bay and offers research and educational programs for visitors of all ages. Visitors can explore the center’s aquarium, touch tanks, and marine mammal rehabilitation facility.
Newport is also home to the annual Oregon Coast Music Festival, which celebrates the area’s rich musical heritage. The festival features a variety of musical performances, art exhibitions, and educational programs.
Stonington, Deer Isle, Maine is a picturesque fishing village located in the New England region of the US. It is home to a population of just over 1,100 people, and is responsible for a huge proportion of the country's lobster haul. The port town is the number one ranking for dollar value and pounds of lobster landings, and there is a restaurant that serves the fresh catch 18 different ways. In addition to lobster, visitors can also dine on scallops, crab and shrimp. The village is a popular tourist destination, with many attractions such as the Deer Isle Granite Museum, the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, and the Stonington Opera House. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking.
Tilghman Island, located on Maryland's Eastern Shore, is a charming fishing village that offers visitors a unique and authentic experience. With a population of less than 1,000, this small community is known for its delicious blue crab and oysters, which can be caught and enjoyed right from the docks. Visitors can also take a day cruise on a traditional oystering skipjack, a nod to the island's rich maritime history. The village is best explored by bike, allowing visitors to take in the picturesque scenery and quaint charm of the area. Tilghman Island is a must-visit for anyone looking for a peaceful and authentic fishing village experience in the US.
Having spent many a childhood holiday in Cornwall’s fishing ports in the South West of England, I’d happily visit any of these US fishing villages. How about you?