Are you looking to get away for the weekend or even just an afternoon? Want to take advantage of this gorgeous summer weather while it lasts? This beachy town by the sea should be your next summer day trip destination. Read on to find out more about visiting this beautiful coastal town with plenty of charm.

Marblehead is the quintessential Massachusetts beach town.
Flickr/MOTT
Founded in 1629, Marblehead is just 18 miles north of Boston. However, it feels like a world away from the urban bustle. With just under 20,000 residents, this town has a lively summer community and plenty of beachy vibes.
It actually has the most colonial-era homes of any town in America – over 300 historic structures line its scenic streets.
Flickr/Garden State Hiker
Strolling through this town is like walking through a living museum. There's so much history on every street corner.
You'll see color everywhere you look in Marblehead.
Flickr/openroads.com
These homes used to be occupied by whalers, traders, craftsmen and artists. Today, many have been converted to charming shops and restaurants.
Of course, some of the most dazzling hues can be spotted over the harbor at sunrise.
Flickr/Ed Cave
All through town, you'll find quaint touches like hanging buoys and old summer shacks.
Flickr/Matt
Marblehead is an amazing mix of old-school seafaring atmosphere and charming, breezy spots to throw down a beach towel or grab a summery cocktail.
Marblehead is filled with small businesses and mom 'n' pop shops. You won't find many big chains in this beach town.
Flickr/6sn7
In fact, the downtown looks like it was painted by Norman Rockwell.
Flickr/Daniel Mennerich
Old-fashioned lamp posts, grey-shingled homes and a classic white-steepled church gives everything a postcard finish.
Head to Main Street for boutique shopping and local goods.
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From fabulous clothes to gourmet cupcakes, you're sure to be laden with shopping bags after an hour or two strolling downtown.

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Grab a bite to eat in one of the many quaint restaurants and coffee shops...
Flickr/Todd Van Hooser
There are so many places to tuck into a good meal that you might have a hard time deciding.
...or head to The Barnacle, a local institution serving classic seafood faves.
Flickr/allie caulfield
The Barnacle is aptly named. Clinging to a rocky outcropping right on the water, this restaurant is known for its hearty portions of perfectly-cooked seafood and its unbeatable Bloody Marys.
Old Burial Hill is incredibly peaceful and picturesque.
Flickr/David Seibold
Since 1638, Marblehead's residents have been reposing in this scenic hilltop cemetery overlooking the water. It's filled with Revolutionary War soldiers and famous local figures.
The waters around Marblehead are perfect for boating of all kinds, including sailing and kayaking.
Flickr/MOTT
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of this small town is from the water, so don't be shy about renting a sailboat or a pair of paddles for the day.
Anglers will be right at home here as well.
Flickr/Mike Lindsey
Fishing has been a Marblehead maintstay for generations, and there are plenty of local fishermen hawking their freshly caught wares down by the harbor or from street carts in the summer.
Artists in particular love coming to Marblehead to capture its natural beauty.
Flickr/Jed Record
You can frequently see painters and photographers setting up along the shoreline on particularly beautiful days.
If you do nothing else in Marblehead, be sure to take a few minutes and admire the elegant sailboats gliding across the sparkling water of the harbor.
Flickr/Massmatt
It's a sight that's straight out of a travel brochure.
It's easy to see why Marblehead deserves a place on you summer to-do list.
Flickr/kaveman743

Marblehead is a beautiful destination for a summer day trip. For more destination inspiration, try a trip to one of these 12 gorgeous waterfront spots in Massachusetts.

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