4 Affordable Beach Towns

Dreaming of a home where you can embrace the coastal lifestyle? If a seaside address is something you'd like to pursue, it may be more possible than you think. Not all beach towns are comprised of outrageously expensive resort properties and out of reach custom homes. There are many which have retained their charm and affordability. Here are four off the beaten track beach towns to consider.

Jonesport, ME
Escape to the heart of Downeast Maine and discover the quaint fishing village of Jonesport. Incorporated in 1832, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time as you stroll along the stunning waterfront. Take an afternoon hike along the rocky bluffs overlooking Chandler Bay and watch the lobster boats unloading their daily catch. Those who seek tranquility will not be disappointed in Jonesport. The pace here is slow and relaxed and will likely fuel your creativity. Nature lovers will also delight at the prospect of spotting seals, whales, and over 50 species of birds, including Atlantic Puffins, and Bald Eagles. Just south of the Jonesport Peninsula is the Great Wass Archipelago, which is a group of 50 islands. When it comes to exploring the coves and craggy coastline, kayaking and sailing are the transportation modes of choice. Owning a fat tired beach cruiser is also a must for cycling along Mason Bay Road, out to Kelley Point, and to Sandy River Beach. Jonesport is conveniently close to the University of ME-Machias and residents can take advantage of college enrichment classes and cultural activities. Winter sports enthusiasts will be happy to learn that cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter diversions. House hunting in the Jonesport area is a unique experience. Where else can you find 1920's bungalows, lovingly maintained Victorians, and waterfront rural properties where you can launch your little boat or gather your very own blueberries?

Mexico Beach, FL
Residents here must feel like every day's a vacation! No matter where your travels take you, when you're in the tiny town of Mexico Beach, you're never more than half a mile from its white sandy strand. Whether you choose to spend a day or a lifetime here, within minutes you'll have to set your watch to island time. Located on the dazzling blue Gulf of Mexico, and part of the Panama City-Lynn Haven Metro Area, Mexico Beach has fiercely held on to its charm. It was incorporated in 1946, and thankfully, city planners mandated that no structures over 48 feet tall be allowed. As a result, everyone benefits from beach views and balmy breezes. Residents also enjoy long strolls along the Mexico Beach pier, picnics at Canal Park, and year round small town fun like gumbo cook-offs and fireworks displays. Resistant to becoming just another FL resort town, Mexico Beach is a place where coastal property is surprisingly affordable. Rumor has it that in the early 1800's the area was a favorite hiding spot for bands of Caribbean Pirates. As a resident, you could spend your spare time surf fishing, shelling, kayaking, and perhaps treasure hunting, on pristine Crooked Island.

Haleiwa, HI
You may suddenly begin whistling a Jack Johnson tune when you cross over the Anahulu River on the twin span Rainbow Bridge into old Haleiwa Town. After all, this is the singer and former pro-surfer's hometown, and you will undoubtedly feel the urge to wax up your surfboard and maybe acquire a ukulele. Known as the Seven-Mile Miracle and home to 40 surfbreaks, Haleiwa is situated on the north shore of Oahu. Another miracle is how this community has diligently maintained its historic structures and preserved its Old Hawaii roots. Far from the high-rises and opulence of Honolulu, it is still possible to own a little piece of Hawaiian heaven here in Haleiwa. Home to just under 3,000 residents, Haleiwa offers a relaxing refuge from the typical Big Island beach resort experience. The brightly colored storefronts of its historic downtown house galleries, boutiques, cafes, and surf shops. Locals spend their spare time enjoying the glistening water up and down Waialau Bay, surfing, kayaking, fishing, and the newest craze, standup paddle boarding. Palm lined trails and old pineapple plantations dot the outskirts of town and are a reminder of what life was like in simpler times. If Haleiwa sounds like your dream destination, maybe its time to pour a steaming cup of Kona coffee and check out those real estate listings!

Folly Beach, SC
Don't get the wrong idea if you hear that Folly Beach is part of the greater Charleston metro area. Although it is a mere 15 minutes south of the historic SC landmark, there is nothing metro about it and Folly Beach has its own brand of southern hospitality and lowcountry charm. Nestled between the Folly River and the Atlantic Ocean, Folly Beach is lovingly referred to by its residents as "The Edge of America". Nature lovers, beachcombers, and water sport enthusiasts will have a hard time choosing what to do first. There are just too many options, from boating to fishing to shelling and surfing, Folly Beach delivers. The six mile long Barrier Island provides ample space to observe loggerhead turtles, swooping oystercatchers, and bottle nosed dolphins. You could, of course simply sunbathe in the warm SC sun. History buffs will have plenty to investigate between delving into the lore of the Gullah people and learning about the historic Morris Island Lighthouse which has stood watch over the area, in one incarnation or another, since 1673. Potential homebuyers will have plenty to choose from and hopefully have something left over for a sound skiff lowcountry vessel, perfect for exploring miles of inlets and saltwater marshes.

We hope the idea of a home near one of our nation's lovely beach towns will inspire you to start your own search. Use a map of the entire US coastline as your guide. Think of it as a quest for buried treasure and you are likely to discover a coastal gem of your own!

Lisa Andree is a marketing professional who helps mortgage companies promote their services and products such as 30 year mortgage loans and 15 year mortgages online.