Spanning over 41 million square miles, the Atlantic Ocean serves as the dynamic highway of world history, marine migration, and coastal culture. Geologically speaking, it is the youngest of Earth’s major oceans. This ocean formed roughly 150 million years ago during the Jurassic period as the supercontinent Pangaea began to split apart. Over those millions of years, its opening waters reshaped global climate patterns and carved out the dramatic coastlines we see today. Whether you are fascinated by marine science or looking to plan a coastal getaway, indeed, the Atlantic holds endless appeal.
Fascinating Facts About the Atlantic Ocean
- The World’s Saltiest Ocean: The Atlantic holds the highest average salinity of any major ocean basin, driven by strong evaporation rates in tropical latitudes and localized wind patterns.
- Home to the Longest Mountain Range on Earth: The Mid-Atlantic Ridge runs right down the middle of the ocean floor from Iceland down to the Sub-Antarctic. At over 10,000 miles long, it is almost entirely submerged underwater.
- The Atlantic Is Actually Expanding: Driven by continental drift along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the Atlantic Ocean grows roughly 1 to 2 inches wider every year as tectonic plates spread apart.
- A Sea Without Shores: The Sargasso Sea, located entirely within the North Atlantic, is the only sea on Earth defined by surrounding ocean currents rather than a land boundary. It forms a unique floating ecosystem of Sargassum seaweed.
- Deepest Point: The lowest point in the Atlantic is the Milwaukee Deep inside the Puerto Rico Trench, plunging to a depth of 27,493 feet (8,380 meters).
Must-Visit Atlantic Ocean Towns
- The Draw: Renowned as America’s oldest seaside resort, Cape May sits at the southern tip of New Jersey where the Atlantic meets the Delaware Bay.
- Highlights: Stroll through historic streets lined with nearly 600 preserved Victorian “Gingerbread” homes, climb the 1859 Cape May Lighthouse, and spot migrating whales and dolphins right off the beach.
- The Draw: Set along Narragansett Bay and the open Atlantic, Newport combines maritime seafaring history with Gilded Age opulence.
- Highlights: Walk the famous 3.5-mile Cliff Walk overlooking the ocean and massive Gilded Age mansions like The Breakers, explore the historic harbor, or visit the oldest operating tavern in the United States (White Horse Tavern, est. 1673).
3. Chatham, Massachusetts (Cape Cod)
- The Draw: Situated at the elbow of Cape Cod. Chatham offers a classic New England coastal experience framed by windswept dunes and working fishing harbors.
- Highlights: Visit the iconic Chatham Light. Spot gray seals along the shoreline and explore the local shark conservancy. And dine on fresh Atlantic seafood straight off the docks.
4. Beaufort, North Carolina
- The Draw: Perched on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, Beaufort boasts 300 years of seaport history steeped in maritime tradition and pirate lore.
- Highlights: Take a water taxi to the Rachel Carson Reserve to watch wild horses roam Atlantic barrier islands. Or explore artifacts from Blackbeard’s flagship, Queen Anne’s Revenge, at the North Carolina Maritime Museum.
- The Draw: Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, St. Augustine is the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement.
- Highlights: Tour the coquina-stone fortress of Castillo de San Marcos overlooking the Matanzas Inlet. Wander the cobblestone historic district, and climb the St. Augustine Lighthouse for sweeping Atlantic vistas.
Vast Geological Wonders
From its vast geological wonders underneath the waves to the centuries of maritime history resting along its shores. The Atlantic Ocean remains one of the world’s most compelling travel destinations. Exploring its historic coastal towns offers a rare opportunity. Experience living history. preserved architectural heritage, and stunning ocean landscapes firsthand. Plan your next coastal getaway, dive into local lore, and discover unforgettable stays.
