Beach Haven, NJ, United States

At just over 1,000 residents, Beach Haven is a tiny, sleepy Jersey Shore town that struggles to maintain its quaint Victorian charm. With a median age of 51.5 and over a quarter of the population aged 65 or older, this is hardly a vibrant, youthful beach destination. The bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as evidenced by the borough's complex system of government and convoluted voting procedures. And while the beach and bay are readily accessible, the climate can be unforgiving, with destructive hurricanes regularly battering the coast. Beach Haven may appeal to retirees seeking a quiet, insular seaside community, but younger families and adventure-seekers would likely find it stifling.