Waves lapping at a sandy shore, palm trees swaying in the breeze and a fruity cocktail melting in your hand — it sounds relaxing, doesn’t it? As an entrepreneur, you’re in a better position than most to make this dream work environment a reality.

While not every entrepreneur can be a true digital nomad, many can take their work with them wherever they go. If you have the means to do so, why not choose the laidback lifestyle of a charming beach town?

Picturesque ocean views, gorgeous weather and great surf are not the only things that small beach towns have to offer entrepreneurs.

8 of the Best Places to Start Your New Business

Here are eight scenic beach towns that will provide everything you need to fuel your creative mind:

1 - Camden, Maine

Set between the Camden Hills and Penobscot Bay, Camden offers breathtaking harbor views, outdoor opportunities and small-town charm. However, this quaint coastal town is also home to a thriving community with big ideas.

Despite its population of just under 5,000, Camden puts on some spectacular performances, conferences and workshops. For instance, the annual Camden Conference, now a tradition for over 30, discusses everything from the latest in foreign policy to technology and science.

If you’re an aspiring filmmaker, you also won’t want to miss their annual Camden International Film Festival. Founded in 2005, the festival is considered one of the best in the world for documentary films.

2 - Cambria, California

Set amid Monterey pines and the California Coast, the town of Cambria is a cozy seaside village in San Luis Obispo County. Known for its rocky cliffs, beaches and trails, this town is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Cambria offers a slew of recreational activities including hiking, bicycling, surfing, kayaking and fishing. If you’re having a rough day, you can check into one of Cambria’s many day spas or simply pull up a chair on the beautiful Moonstone Beach to find tranquility.

3 - Charleston, South Carolina

It’s easy to see why entrepreneurs are moving to Charleston, S.C. in droves. This charming city may have the feel of a small beach town, but it comes with plenty of big-city perks.

In addition to its world-class food, incredible hospitality and rich history, Charleston is also home to a thriving tech scene. According to the Charleston Regional Development Alliance, the city’s IT sector has grown 3.5 times faster than the national average since 2010.

Charleston is also home to a strong tech community full of entrepreneurs, employees, organizations and businesses that support each other. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder Charleston is consistently voted the No. 1 city in the United States.

4 - Saugatuck, Michigan

If you’re an entrepreneur with an artistic side, Saugatuck will certainly appeal to you. Set amid pristine beaches and massive dunes, this coastal town features a picturesque village with charming 19th-century architecture and plenty of art galleries.

With its twin city Douglas just over the Kalamazoo River, Saugatuck is also quickly becoming a food destination as well. Cookbook authors and award-winning chefs have flocked to Saugatuck, Douglas and nearby Fenville, turning the area into something of a foodie hub.

Fair warning though: It can get cold in Saugatuck. But if you don’t mind the changing of the seasons, this quaint beach town can provide an easy way of living.

5 - Cannon Beach, Oregon

If scenic beauty and outdoor activities are what you’re looking for in a beach town, Cannon Beach has you covered. This coastal town in northwest Oregon is renowned for its sweeping ocean views, abundant wildlife, scenic hiking trails and dramatic rock formations.

The attractions, state park and tourism in Cannon Beach provide major business opportunities for eager entrepreneurs. Join the Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce and check out their many networking events or visit Seaside — just 15 minutes away — for additional entrepreneurial opportunities.

6 - Cape May, New Jersey

Located on the Southern tip of Cape May Peninsula in New Jersey, Cape May is one of the oldest seaside resort destinations in the country. Famous for its colorful Victorian buildings and picture-perfect streets, the entire town has been declared a National Historic Landmark.

Cape May’s lively culture, charming historic district and pristine beaches draw millions of visitors to her shores every year — mostly in December. But if you’re looking to make Cape May your permanent home, you won’t be disappointed in the year-round offerings of this historic resort town. From water sports and golf to festivals and special events, there is always something to do in Cape May.

7 - Tybee Island, Georgia

Just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, Tybee Island is the perfect mix of history, adventure and laidback island living. This barrier island boasts one of the oldest lighthouses in the nation, charming cottages and spectacular marsh views.

Tybee Island is well known for its Southern hospitality, fresh seafood and picture-perfect beaches. Best of all, entrepreneurs can take advantage of the many entrepreneurial events in Savannah and then return to the relaxing beach lifestyle of Tybee Island.

8 - Fernandina Beach, Florida

Located on the charming and historic Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach is a dream town for those looking to escape the bustling city life. With a rich history, growing food scene and passionate community of self-starters, entrepreneurs will fit right in at this unique beach town.

Fernandina features five golf courses, miles of nature preserves, a lively marina and plenty of boutiques. It’s also proud of its colorful pirate history. In fact, the jailhouse on Third Street is reportedly haunted by the ghost of Luc Simone Aury, a pirate who was sentenced to hang for his crimes.

A Place for Work and Play

When you’re a digital nomad, the world is your oyster. Not being tied to a physical office means you can choose the perfect beach town to plant your roots.

From the rugged beauty of Maine to the pristine white sand beaches of coastal Florida, there is a charming beach town to suit every entrepreneur. The most difficult task is deciding which of these beautiful coastal towns to call home.

Our guest author Traci Magnus is a realtor for Dunes Properties located in Charleston, SC.

She has a degree in economics from The University of South Carolina.

When she’s not selling houses, she is looking up the latest trends in residential and commercial development.