Which state along the Atlantic coast of the US is the northernmost?

Tourist Attractions

By Kristy Tolley

The Northernmost State on the Atlantic

The Atlantic coast of the United States is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. Stretching from Maine in the north to Florida in the south, the Atlantic coast is home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks and natural wonders. However, if you’re wondering which state is the northernmost on the Atlantic coast, the answer can be a bit surprising.

Geographical Boundaries of the Atlantic Coast

The Atlantic coast of the United States is a region that encompasses the eastern seaboard of the country, from Maine in the north to Florida in the south. The region is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the east, the Appalachian Mountains on the west, and the Gulf of Mexico on the south. The region is characterized by a mix of coastal plains, barrier islands, and rocky shorelines, and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.

States Along the Atlantic Coastline

There are six states along the Atlantic coast of the United States, listed in order from north to south: Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Each state has its own unique culture, history, and attractions, but all share a common connection to the Atlantic Ocean.

Comparing the Northernmost States

When it comes to determining which state is the northernmost on the Atlantic coast, the answer depends on how you define "northernmost." If you’re looking for the state with the highest latitude, then Maine is the clear winner. However, if you’re looking for the state with the northernmost point along the coastline, then the answer is a bit more complicated.

Delaware: The First State on the Atlantic Coast

Delaware may be the smallest state in the country, but it still holds a significant place in American history. As the first state to ratify the US Constitution, Delaware played a crucial role in the founding of the country. When it comes to the northernmost point on the Atlantic coast, Delaware’s Cape Henlopen State Park is the closest point to the northernmost latitude on the Atlantic coast.

New Jersey: The Garden State and its Northernmost Point

New Jersey is known as the "Garden State" thanks to its lush vegetation and fertile soil. However, it is also home to some of the most popular beaches on the Atlantic coast, including Atlantic City and Cape May. The northernmost point on the New Jersey coast is Sandy Hook, a narrow peninsula that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean.

New York: The Empire State’s Northernmost Border

New York State is known as the "Empire State" thanks to its prominence in American culture and commerce. New York City, the state’s largest city, is one of the most iconic cities in the world, and the state is home to some of the country’s most scenic natural wonders, like Niagara Falls. The northernmost point on the New York coast is West Pond Point, located on the eastern tip of Long Island.

Rhode Island: The Ocean State’s Northernmost Tip

Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the country, but it is also the most densely populated. Known as the "Ocean State," Rhode Island is home to some of the most picturesque coastal towns and beaches in the country, including Newport and Narragansett. The northernmost point on the Rhode Island coast is the Watch Hill Point, located at the western tip of the state.

Massachusetts: The Bay State’s Northernmost Town

Massachusetts is known as the "Bay State" thanks to its significant coastline on the Atlantic Ocean and various large bays. The state is home to some of the most historic sites in the country, including the city of Boston, Plymouth Rock, and the Salem Witch Trials. The northernmost point on the Massachusetts coast is the town of Salisbury, located on the border with New Hampshire.

Maine: The Pine Tree State’s Northernmost Point

Maine is known as the "Pine Tree State" thanks to its vast forests of evergreen trees. The state is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country, including Acadia National Park, Baxter State Park, and the Allagash Wilderness Waterway. The northernmost point on the Maine coast is Quoddy Head, located on the easternmost tip of the state.

Conclusion: The Northernmost State on the Atlantic Coast Revealed

After comparing the northernmost points of each state along the Atlantic coast, it is clear that Maine holds the northernmost spot. Quoddy Head, located on the easternmost point of Maine, is the closest point to the northernmost point on the Atlantic coast. While each state along the Atlantic coast has its own unique charms and attractions, Maine holds the title of northernmost state on the Atlantic coast of the United States.

References: Sources for Further Reading

  1. "Atlantic Coast." National Geographic Society, .
  2. "Northeast Region." Discover New England, .
  3. "The 50 States of the USA." Infoplease, https://www.infoplease.com/us/states.
Photo of author

Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

Leave a Comment