Massachusetts

Cape Cod's National Seashore is a little far north to offer perfect, bathing-suit beaches, but is nevertheless home to some of the USA's most attractive coastlines, with an unspoilt, scenic shore that includes 40 miles of fine sandy beaches dotted with woods, rocky bays, handsome seaside towns and lively harbours, with terrific hiking and biking trails. Cape Cod beaches are washed by clean but very chilly waters and the air temperature is generally none too hot either.

If your prime interest is walking, try Gay Head Public Beach in Martha's Vineyard for its spectacular cliff views and hard packed sand. It has also an area set aside for naturists.
Getting there: From Boston take Route 3 south to the Sagamore Bridge in Bourne. Follow Route 6 eastward to Eastham and Provincetown. From Providence, RI take I-95 north to, I-195. Follow Route 6 eastward as above