We here in Massachusetts are fortunate enough to have the benefits of beautiful inland landscapes and gorgeous coastal regions. You never have to travel too far in the Bay State to reach a lovely waterfront town. Here are some of our favorite spots to explore, shop and kick back right on the water.

1. Rockport

Rockport is a gorgeous North Shore coastal town that oozes charm. From its picturesque harbor to its winding streets lined with seafood shacks and colonial homes, there's no reason to miss this great little town on a trip up the coast.

2. Brewster

Brewster is a laidback option for when you don't want to deal with the worst of the Cape crowds. Whale watching is a big draw here, as well as the classic seafood restaurants and stunning beaches. If you're feeling fancy go ahead and book a room in the historic Ocean Edge Resort, a massive Victorian mansion overlooking the water.

3. Hull

Hull is a tiny community that offers all the charm of an island...without the requisite ferry ride. It's located on a peninsula along the southern edge of Boston Harbor and is a great place to escape for a weekend or longer. Explore Fort Andrews and Nantasket Beach for a great summer afternoon.

4. Onset

Onset is actually a village in Wareham. It's filled with gorgeous Victorian homes that date back from its time as a summer meeting site for Spiritualists who came to communicate with the dead. Today, it has a much sunnier reputation as a quiet waterfront community with heaps of charm.

5. Cohasset

This sleepy town is a hidden gem just waiting to be explored. There's plenty of small-town New England charm to be had here, as well as historic spots like the 1614 landing site of Captain John Smith. Pop by the French Memories Bakery on Main Street for something sweet to eat in the shade.

6. Sandwich

Sandwich is sometimes overlooked in favor of other Cape Cod towns, but this community has some of the most scenic landscapes on the Cape. Take a stroll down to the Sandwich Boardwalk and explore the seaside and marshy coast without even getting your feet wet.

7. Scituate

Scituate is the perfect blend of quiet harborside tranquility and a lively downtown with plenty to do, see and savor. Grab dinner at the Mill Wharf Restaurant before catching the sunset as it streaks the water with scarlet and gold.

8. Pocasset

Pocasset is another one of those towns that doesn't get nearly as much attention as it deserves. If you're looking for a beachy destination without the crushing crowds, head to this spot just 10 minutes from the Bourne Bridge. Its convenient location between Cape Cod and the mainland mean that you can escape some of the worst summer traffic without sacrificing time on the shore.

9. Revere

If you're looking for a great waterfront town with plenty to do and see, Revere is it. Home to massive annual sandsculpting competition, plenty of tasty restaurants and lots of little shops to explore, Revere is a great place to bring the whole family for a day near the water.

10. Newburyport

Newburyport is a great mixture of coastal beauty and unexpected rural tranquility. While the downtown area is thick with quaint restaurants, shops and markets, traveling just a short while outside the main thoroughfare will reward you with beautiful views of farmland and sea.

These waterfront towns are sure to charm you into a second visit. If you love gorgeous Massachusetts scenery, be sure to check out these scenic overlooks that will give you a breathtaking view over the Bay State landscape.