The best US beach towns for a weekend getaway

The main requirement of a great beach town is, obviously, proximity to a great beach. But even though there are thousands of beautiful seaside towns across the country, not all of them make for an ideal weekend escape — whether due to inconvenience, lack of charm or some other factor.So we've taken the guesswork out of the planning equation for you, and rounded up a list of U.S. towns that are relatively close to cities and airports, have plenty of activities and, of course, offer easy access to a beautiful beach (or two or three).Related: 7 great family beach vacations to kick off summerOgunquit, MaineDENISTANGNEYJR/GETTY IMAGESLighthouses, lobster shacks, rocky coves, quaint houses — everything that comes to mind when you imagine Maine, you can find in Ogunquit. Main Beach and Footbridge Beach are the most convenient beach options from town, but you can also head a bit farther out to Wells Beach or Drakes Island Beach for a day in the sun. Don't leave Ogunquit without strolling scenic Marginal Way, eating dinner in Perkins Cove and checking out the Ogunquit Museum of American Art.The town is a popular summer destination, so expect crowds or plan to visit during the calmer shoulde...