There’s something about the charm of a seaside fishing town that gets me every time—the weathered shingled cottages, lobster traps stacked by the dock, the salty breeze that hits just right as the sun starts to set. I’ve been lucky to stay in some of the dreamiest little harbors over the years—from Newburyport to Rockport, Massachusetts (yes, where they filmed The Proposal!), to the postcard-perfect towns of Camden and Bar Harbor, Maine. And if I were heading back for a summer escape right now? Here’s everything I’d pack if I were spending the summer in a seaside fishing town.
Think: timeless staples with a touch of that fisherman’s daughter aesthetic I can’t get enough of lately. Cozy knits, boat shoes, nautical stripes, and lightweight layers that make every outfit feel effortlessly coastal.
Everything I’d Pack If I Were Spending the Summer in a Seaside Fishing Town
Classic Fisherman Cardigan
A must for misty mornings and cool dockside dinners. I love how it gives any outfit that old-school New England vibe. Throw it over a slip dress or with linen shorts—always a win.
Linen 6″ Inseam Shorts
Easy, breezy, and polished. These go with everything and feel like something you’d wear while browsing a local bookshop or grabbing a lobster roll to-go.
Jelly Sandals
These are a little nostalgic, a little playful, and so perfect for beachy days. Plus, they rinse off easily if you’re wading into tidepools or hopping on a boat.
Nautical Embroidered Cardigan
This one feels like it came straight from a harbor gift shop in the best way possible—classic, sweet, and ready for a breezy boat ride.
Boat Shoes
A staple. These are the kind of shoes you buy once and keep forever. They’re comfy, cool, and totally timeless.
Striped Pajama Set
The comfiest set to slip into after a day in the sun. I picture myself sipping tea on a screened-in porch, wrapped in this soft striped goodness.
White Wide Leg Jeans
So crisp and fresh. Perfect with a red stripe tee or tucked-in pointelle knit. They feel a little dressy without trying too hard.
Blue & White Striped Pointelle Tee
Lightweight, coastal, and classic. I reach for this when I want to feel put together but still relaxed.
Red and Ivory Striped Mariner Top
I’ve always loved a stripe moment, and this one feels especially perfect for a summer spent by the sea. It gives “I just came from the docks” in the prettiest way.
White Cotton Bucket Hat
Sun protection, but make it coastal-chic. I wear mine with just about everything—especially on afternoon strolls by the marina.
These are the kinds of pieces I’d reach for over and over again on a summer trip to the coast—easy to style, effortlessly nautical, and full of that laid-back charm I love so much. Whether you’re planning a trip or just dressing the part at home, I hope this little roundup helps you channel that fisherman’s daughter look all season long. Enjoy more coastal packing ideas here!
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