UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

#3. Beaufort, SC

This iconic Southern town is nestled on Port Royal Island right on the Atlantic Ocean, and residents and visitors alike enjoy the cooling effect of the ocean breezes. Besides pristine beaches and an all-around mild climate to keep folks cool, the town of Beaufort offers something entirely unique each summer: the Beaufort Water Festival.

For more than a week in mid-July, festival goers get to enjoy all things water along the town’s Waterfront Park. Events include shrimp boat tours, a water skiing show, a river dance, a toad fishing tournament for the kids and a huge low-country supper to round it all out.

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