15 Best Beach Resorts in the U.S. (2024)

Americans planning a summer vacation — or a restorative cool-weather trip to the shore — don't have to travel too far for a great coastal getaway. We wholeheartedly believe some of the world's best beach destinations are right here in the U.S. This editor-curated list features luxurious resorts with rooms overlooking the ocean, pools galore, soft sand, private beaches, and an abundance of water activities.

Here are 15 of the best beach resorts in the U.S. to consider for your next relaxing escape. There's something for everyone at these properties, whether you're trying to entertain a gaggle of children (or the adults in your life) with boogie boarding and snorkeling or you prefer to focus on poolside piña coladas,

Montage Laguna Beach, California

This 30-acre Southern California resort aims for the kind of experience you might find in Positano, with exceptional service, unbeatable views, and the smell of the surf. Thanks to its prime bluff-top spot overlooking the beach, Montage Laguna Beach is enticing from all angles. Guests get marble soaking tubs in their rooms, access to a pool that stretches toward the Pacific Ocean, and opportunities to get out on the water with a paddleboard, kayak, or snorkeling gear. If you want to soak up direct ocean vistas from your private balcony or patio, book accommodations in the Ocean Surf category. In addition to 262 rooms and suites, chic villas are available for larger groups.

To book: hotels.com

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, South Carolina

Landscape architects transplanted 160 mature live oaks for the resort's entrance avenue, and Kiawah's beach glows pink at sunset — that's the setting you're walking into here. Roughly 30 miles from Charleston, The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is an enclave of five-star service bursting with Southern charm. The property boasts 255 spectacular guest rooms and two pools overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. "I really like Kiawah Island's Sanctuary Resort," said Travel + Leisure editor Elizabeth Rhodes after a 2020 stay. "It's one of the few places in the state where you can get food and beverage service on the beach, and the golf courses are world renowned."

To book: hotels.com

The Cloister at Sea Island, Georgia

The Cloister encompasses 50 acres of waterfront green space on Georgia's Sea Island, with its own beach stretching for five miles. After a stay in 2023, T+L editor Elizabeth Rhodes said it "feels like a European palace tucked away on a private island." Guests can choose to stay in a country-style room in the main building, a more spacious one- or two-bedroom suite at the Sea Island Beach Club, or in The Cloister Ocean Residences, all granting access to the full resort. Many of the rooms come with views of the water and the resort's legendary golf course. "With Mediterranean-style arched windows and walkways, soaring wood-beamed ceilings, fine dining at the stately Georgian Rooms restaurant, and a gorgeous wood-paneled library," Rhodes said the resort "feels like a fairy-tale setting for a waterfront vacation."

To book: seaisland.com

Edgewood Tahoe Resort, Nevada

Northern California and Nevada might not be the first destinations that come to mind when considering the best beach resorts in the U.S., but Lake Tahoe's beaches are a revelation in any season. Edgewood is the only luxury South Lake Tahoe resort set right on the beach, offering an out-of-the-ordinary escape. Play a round of golf, sip your coffee on an Adirondack chair in the sand, or go for a swim in the lakeside pool. Beyond the Tahoe summer beach offerings, guests can indulge in CBD treatments at Spa Edgewood and fine dining at the Edgewood Restaurant.

To book: hotels.com

The Breakers, Palm Beach, Florida

Unsurpassed in terms of luxury when oil tycoon Henry Flagler built it in 1896, The Breakers outdid itself with a 1926 renovation modeled after Italian Renaissance villas. Today, the 534-room resort, set on 140 beachfront acres, is pure drama, its palm-lined drive leading up to the twin-spired behemoth. The modern day intervenes in breezily tropical rooms, designed with white, blue, and sand tones, and in the private poolside bungalows, which feature flat-screen TVs and concierge service.

To book: hotels.com

Ocean House, Westerly, Rhode Island

Ocean House — and really, all of Westerly — is the pinnacle of New England beachfront luxury. And that's not just because Taylor Swift owns property here. About two hours from Boston and three from New York City, the resort provides a great alternative to Cape Cod or the Hamptons. Ocean House has opulent decor and a stretch of gorgeous New England beach that's begging to be explored. Stay in one of the property's 49 guest rooms or 20 signature suites, such as the multilevel Tower Suite, with its wooden spiral staircase and epic views of the Block Island Sound from the roof deck.

To book: oceanhouseri.com

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Hawaii

A favored hideout for the LA crowd in search of a Polynesian interlude, the 383-room Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea caters to every pleasurable whim. Every suite is decorated with tropical accents and faces either the Pacific Ocean or Maui's dramatic Mt. Haleakalā volcano. Poolside, any of the cabanas will make your perfect day by the water even more peaceful. Those looking for more energetic ways to spend their time can take yoga classes or scuba lessons and go on an outrigger canoe excursion, among other activities (some may require an extra fee).

To book: hotels.com

Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach, Oregon

A shingled hotel that overlooks the famous Haystack Rock along Oregon's northern coast, Stephanie Inn offers rooms equipped with fireplaces and private balconies. The property also provides everything you need for a crackling bonfire on the sand. Part of the appeal of Stephanie Inn is community; every day, guests are invited to mingle over a wine and beer gathering in the library as well as an evening nightcap around the fire. Consider one of the oceanfront corner suite rooms on the second floor for the best views of the iconic sea stack.

To book: stephanieinn.com

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, Hawaii

On Hawaii Island (also called Hawaii's Big Island), Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection has many enticing amenities including a waterfront restaurant and a Goop store — the brand's first Hawaiian venture. The Surf Shack doubles as a water sports hub and beach bar. Guest rooms and suites come with balconies to enjoy all those views of the mountains and ocean, while the resort's stylish 4,000-square-foot residences feature private pools. You'll come for the Kohala Coast beaches but stay for the once-in-a-lifetime sunsets.

To book: hotels.com

Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas, California

Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas is located along the pristine Southern California coast between Orange County and San Diego. The resort, which debuted in 2021 as the first new-build from Alila Resorts in the U.S., has a spectacular culinary program and ultra-chic beach-inspired decor. Nearly every room on the property faces the Pacific Ocean, and so does the pool. A plethora of on-property activities range from beach yoga sessions to bike rides along the coast.

"Encinitas is a quintessential SoCal surf town, and Alila Marea is the perfect place to experience that," said T+L editorial director Nina Ruggiero after a 2022 stay. "Its clifftop position offers sweeping ocean views. Inside, there's a surf-themed bar, and lots of surf art from local artists. The pool is definitely a hangout spot not to miss (book a cabana if you can)."

To book: hotels.com

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Hawaii

Located just 25 minutes from Kailua-Kona on the Big Island, the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is popular with Hollywood celebrities, and for good reason. For starters, the grounds boast eight spectacular seawater and freshwater swimming pools bordering the dramatic volcanic-rock coast, as well as an open-air spa teeming with tropical vegetation. In addition to well-appointed rooms and suites, the resort offers luxury villas with private pools — perfect for guests seeking a secluded escape.

To book: hotels.com

Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, New York

There are several reasons why New Yorkers flock to Montauk every year — and one of them is the stunning Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, set right on the beach. Choose from 158 rooms, suites, and cottages. While all accommodations have at least a partial view of the ocean, the exquisite cottages boast private decks, fire pits, and direct beach access. From dining seaside at on-site restaurant Scarpetta Beach to sipping co*cktails at the iconic Beach Club, Gurney's is a scene you don't want to miss in the summer.

To book: hotels.com

The Lodge at Kukui'ula, Kauai, Hawaii

As Hawaiian islands go, Kauai is known for having a substantial amount of uninhabited land, which means it's also synonymous with stunning (and fairly uncrowded) beaches. One of the best places to enjoy the Garden Isle's white sands and vibrant blue waters is at The Lodge at Kukui'ula, located on the south shore of the island. Comprised of cottage rentals in three different "neighborhoods" of the property, it's meant to feel like a home away from home. Here, guests will find a 10-acre working organic farm, a surplus of water activities and equipment rentals at Huaka'i Outfitters, multiple pools, a spa and fitness center, a golf course, and tennis courts, among other amenities.

To book: hotels.com

Mandarin Oriental, Miami

At Mandarin Oriental, Miami, views of the city skyline and Biscayne Bay come with a carefully modulated elegance, evident in the design of the curvy white building. The opulent hotel is located on Brickell Key, a small residential island within walking distance of downtown, and has all the advantages of a waterfront resort. Guests can relax by the infinity-edge pool, in the luxurious spa, or on their spacious balcony. To take your stay to the next level of luxury, reserve the 19th-floor Presidential Suite.

To book: hotels.com

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, Little Torch Key, Florida

Florida's most secluded and romantic retreat, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa is a Keys enclave set on a private four-acre island accessible only by boat or seaplane. From its elegant thatch-roofed bungalows and exceptional culinary offerings to the laid-back adults-only atmosphere, it's easy to see why this is one of the most sought-after beach resorts in the U.S. Be sure to visit the Looe Key Sanctuary Preservation Area, located in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, just a few minutes away from the resort by kayak.

To book: hotels.com