From pristine, uncrowded beaches to history-rich harbors, this edition of Byways highlights ten of America’s most tranquil seaside retreats — places where nature speaks louder than the crowds. Whether it’s the reflective quiet of Lubec, Maine, perched at the eastern edge of the U.S., or the evolving charm of Atlantic City blending nostalgia with modern flair, each location offers more than just scenery — they offer stories shaped by salt air and centuries of coastal life.

Beyond the beach, we explore how oceanside travel can be a journey through time. In Virginia, Jamestown Settlement immerses visitors in the lives of early English colonists, while Nova Scotia’s coastal roads reveal dramatic vistas and deep-rooted cultural heritage. And inland, the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal takes center stage in Buffalo, New York, reminding us of the inland waterways that once brought the ocean to America’s heartland. With every stop, this issue invites travelers to embrace the sea — not just as a destination, but as a lens through which to rediscover the stories, serenity, and soul of North America.