The Best Beach Resorts in the U.S., From the Florida Keys to the Big Island

What makes a beach resort one of the “best”? For me, when I’m considering a new-to-me resort to book, I’m looking for a few things. I want a luxury vibe that’s still accessible and doesn’t feel overly stuffy. I want a lot of included amenities. I want interesting things to do and definitely a stellar food and beverage program.

What’s “the best” to you may differ, though. Maybe you’re not a big foodie or you just want to lie in the sand, all day, every day (no judgement there!). Or maybe you care about the actual destination most, and want to go off property for some fun.

In the list below, I’m doing my best to balance all worlds — considering my own experience in the luxury travel sector, while also thinking about the huge breadth of travel preferences held by my peers — while also showcasing resorts from different coastal regions around the country. Hopefully, you’ll be inspired to check out a few of these properties for yourself, and maybe just book your next beach vacay.

Overview

You might not be familiar with Manalapan (technically the population is less than 500 people, as of 2024), but just know that it’s part of the Miami metro. This is where you’ll find Eau Resort & Spa, a 5-star, luxury property practically built for relaxation.

While the private beach and ocean-view rooms are definitely attractive, the 42,000-square-foot spa may just be where you want to spend the majority of your time.

Over the course of a day, you could visit the spa’s saunas and steam rooms, jacuzzi and garden. Build your own body scrub at the DIY scrub and polish bar. Rent a private garden villa with its own open-air shower for privacy. Then, indulge in a huge variety of luxurious massages, skin treatments, wellness offerings, and the like — some of which I guarantee you’ve never seen at any other spa.

Highlights

Overview

Situated on Hawaii’s Big Island (aka the Island of Hawaii), Four Seasons Resort Hualalai perfectly positions you to enjoy all of this island’s varied landscapes and adventure opportunities. However, you may feel like you never even need to go off-property at all, when you see this expansive resort (although, frankly, that would be a mistake — this is frequently lauded as the best island to visit in the Hawaiian archipelago, for numerous reasons, not least of which is just how much there is to do here).

Beyond the basic amenities that you get with your stay, you’ll enjoy access to eight outdoor pools, water sports rentals, and an on-site cultural center with classes and activities. There’s also on-site shopping and a Jack Nicklaus golf course, and if you want to get a little active without heading off-resort, just head to the fitness center. It’s not just any ol’ gym. It includes a lap pool, tennis and pickle ball courts, too.

Then, there’s King’s Pond, a massive swimmable aquarium and marine activity center, with its own staff of marine biologists, and a lounge.

Highlights:

Overview

Back on the mainland, let’s shrink things down a bit — way down. The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island is an all-inclusive resort that’s also exceptionally exclusive, with room for just a few dozen guests at a time. That said, guests enjoy access to an expansive stretch of pristine nature, with 11,000 acres of island and seven miles of beach at your fingertips.

When you’re not out exploring the lands via included guided excursions, such as a naturalist-led hikes or paddles, or hanging out in your historic cottage, you can swim in the saltwater pool or dine on lovingly prepared meals utilizing ingredients grown right on site or sourced from local farmers. Your room rate includes three meals a day and non-alcoholic beverages.

Highlights:

Overview

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a highly lauded luxury beach resort just a short drive away from Charleston, giving you easy, direct access from many airports around the country. While the property is not historic, it gives off the vibe, with the four-story mansion exuding southern hospitality and surrounded by old oak trees that were transplanted just for the aesthetic. Take in the views of the Atlantic Ocean even if you’re on the ground floor — every room has its own balcony.

When you’re not at the beach, enjoy the multiple pools (both indoor and out), the spa, one of five golf courses or on-site shopping.

Highlights:

Overview

Montage Laguna Beach Resort sits on 30 acres overlooking the Pacific from a steep bluff, and yet offers easy access to the beach. All guestrooms and suites offer ocean views, and all the while you’re just less than a 15-minute drive from downtown. There are two signature restaurants and bars, plus a 20,000-square-foot spa. At the beautiful Mosaic Pool, you can rent a private cabana.

While there is children’s programming available on a limited basis, this is a luxury resort that’s ultimately better suited to a more mature set — particularly those who maybe don’t want to spend all their time at the resort, and may want to explore further afield. The resort’s location certainly makes it easy, and the on-site offerings are just enough to keep you entertained when you’re not sightseeing and touring the area.

Highlights:

Overview

This all-inclusive, adults-only resort in the Keys will set you up in either a waterfront or garden bungalow. Depending on the bungalow you book, you could enjoy your own private porch with water views and/or a private veranda with a soaking tub and outdoor shower.

Within the inclusions, you really do get a lot: all your meals, including small bites; welcome drinks; premium alcoholic beverages; access to recreational equipment; and more. When you look at everything you get and compare it to the rates, this resort is a pretty good value.

Across the property, you’ll find multiple pools, a spa, and multiple bars and restaurants.

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