Sometimes it's just not possible to get away for an entire weekend, even a holiday weekend. Luckily, Washington has plenty of beautiful towns that can be explored in a single day, and some of them sit right on the water.

Of course, depending on what part of the state you call home, not all of these will be possible to reach in one day. But for those who can, they make very charming day trip destinations.

1. Port Townsend

Port Townsend is a 2 hour drive from Seattle and a 4 hour drive from Central Washington, and this Victorian village by the sea is an amazing place. Check out Fort Worden State Park, take a walk on the waterfront and enjoy a meal at one of the many tasty restaurants before heading back home.

2. La Conner

It's pretty much impossible to spend a day in La Conner without falling in love with it. From the charming shops to the waterfront dining and wine tasting, you'll be instantly smitten.

3. Ocean Shores

Admittedly, it would be difficult for anyone not living in Southwest Washington to make a day trip to Ocean Shores. But if you're one of the lucky ones who can make the drive in under 3 hours, you can enjoy a beautiful beach day in this quiet coastal community.

4. Stevenson

This tiny town sits right on the Columbia River, and for a place so small, it has plenty of things to do. And if you grow tired of the antique shops, galleries, wine, spirit and cider tasting rooms and the delicious restaurants, you can drive up the road and hike at Beacon Rock State Park.

5. Kennewick

You definitely don't have to live on the west side to enjoy a little waterfront getaway. The Tri Cities sit right on the beautiful Columbia River and have a lot to offer. Kennewick's historic downtown area has gone through a recent revival, and Columbia Park offers plenty of riverfront land to enjoy.

6. Olympia

Our capital city is located at the southern end of Puget Sound on Budd Inlet. It's bursting with charming neighborhoods, waterfront parks and marinas, and more outdoor activities than anyone could possibly do in a day.

7. Anacortes

If you've ever been to the San Juan Islands, you've seen part of this beautiful waterfront city. But next time, stick around and make Anacortes your only destination - it has plenty to offer.

8. Blaine

Want a taste of the laid back British Columbia lifestyle without crossing the Canadian border? Blaine is the closest you can get without bringing your passport, and the Semiahmoo Bay area is absolutely beautiful.

9. Belfair

Located on the Hood Canal in Mason County, Belfair is a total gem. If you enjoy biking, hiking, fishing and shopping, you'll love spending your day here.

10. Langley

If you're lucky enough to live near Mukilteo, you can hop a ferry to Whidbey Island and spend a beautiful day in Langley. With plenty of shopping, dining, wine tasting, beach walks and island drives available, you may decide to make a weekend of it after all.

These beautiful places are just a fraction of Washington's charming waterfront communities. All of these towns are located right on the river.