Choosing the best coastal places to retire can depend on individual preferences and priorities. However, here are some popular coastal destinations known for their retirement appeal…1
Best coastal places to retire in the world
- Algarve, Portugal: This region along Portugal’s southern coast features picturesque towns, stunning cliffs, and a favorable climate. The Algarve offers affordability, a relaxed pace of life, and a welcoming expat community.
- Costa del Sol, Spain: Known for its sunny weather, sandy beaches, and numerous golf courses, the Costa del Sol has long been a popular retirement destination. It offers a relaxed lifestyle, affordable living, and a rich culture.
- Central Coast, California, USA: The Central Coast of California boasts scenic beauty, mild weather, and a slower pace of life. Areas like Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Monterey offer a mix of natural wonders, cultural attractions, and a thriving culinary scene.
- Hua Hin, Thailand: Located on Thailand’s Gulf Coast, Hua Hin is a laid-back beach town with a relaxed vibe. It offers a low cost of living, friendly locals, and access to amenities like golf courses, shopping malls, and healthcare facilities.
- Cascais, Portugal: Situated near Lisbon, Cascais offers a coastal lifestyle with charming beaches, a historic town center, and proximity to the capital city. The area provides good infrastructure, a mild climate, and a range of recreational activities.
- Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia: Known for its pristine beaches, subtropical climate, and natural attractions, the Sunshine Coast is a desirable retirement destination. It offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle, a variety of outdoor activities, and a welcoming community.
- Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: With its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and vibrant expat community, Puerto Vallarta is a popular retirement spot. It provides a rich cultural scene, affordable living costs, and access to world-class healthcare facilities.
8 best coastal places to retire in US
Finding the best coastal places to retire in the US depends on individual preferences. Here are some popular coastal destinations favored by retirees:
- Sarasota, Florida: Known for its warm climate, pristine beaches, cultural attractions, and vibrant arts scene, Sarasota offers a relaxed retirement lifestyle. The area boasts numerous golf courses, recreational activities, and a variety of amenities.
- Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: With its beautiful beaches, mild climate, and world-class golf courses, Hilton Head Island is a popular retirement destination. The island also offers abundant nature preserves, biking trails, and opportunities for outdoor activities.
- Charleston, South Carolina: Charleston has a charming historic district, stunning waterfront views, and a vibrant culinary scene. Retirees can enjoy a blend of history, culture, fantastic dining options, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
- Monterey, California: Situated along California’s central coast, Monterey offers breathtaking natural beauty, including stunning beaches and picturesque coastal views. The area also features renowned golf courses, quaint towns, and access to the scenic Big Sur coastline.
- Portland, Maine: Located on the Atlantic coast, Portland combines a lively cultural scene, historic charm, and scenic coastal beauty. Retirees can enjoy waterfront dining, art galleries, and numerous outdoor recreational activities.
- St. Augustine, Florida: As the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine offers a rich history, beautiful beaches, and year-round pleasant weather. The city is known for its well-preserved architecture, cultural events, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
- Kiawah Island, South Carolina: Kiawah Island provides a secluded and serene coastal retreat with pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and world-class golf courses. The island offers a peaceful environment ideal for retirees seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
- Outer Banks, North Carolina: The Outer Banks features a long stretch of barrier islands with picturesque beaches and charming coastal towns. Retirees can enjoy a slower pace of life, outdoor activities, historical landmarks, and stunning ocean views.
When considering a coastal retirement destination, factors such as cost of living, proximity to healthcare facilities, access to amenities, recreational opportunities, and the specific lifestyle offered should be taken into account. Visiting potential locations, exploring local communities, and consulting with local real estate agents can provide valuable insight into finding the best coastal place to retire in the US for your individual needs.
It’s essential to visit potential retirement destinations, take into account personal preferences, consider cost of living, healthcare facilities, safety, and the availability of desired amenities and activities. Researching each location thoroughly and consulting with financial advisors or relocation experts can help you make an informed decision that suits your retirement needs.
Best coastal places to retire
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1 ChatGPT, personal communication, March 11, 2024