Beach living on Sea view / 3d rendering(Getty Images/iStockphoto/TonTectonix)
Beach living on Sea view / 3d rendering(Getty Images/iStockphoto/TonTectonix)
Escape the daily grind in these underappreciated sandy hideaways.
When it comes to the perfect beach vacation, luxury accommodations, uninterrupted relaxation and hours of digging your toes in the sand are must-haves. And let’s face it: Battling hordes of unruly tourists for space after traveling a long distance to get to the beach isn’t at the top of the list. If you want to avoid the crowds without compromising on quality experiences and an enviable location, retreat to these underrated beach hotels.
The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & SpaHilton Head Island, South Carolina
Hilton Head Island is consistently lauded as one of the top island getaways in the U.S. Its expansive, white-sand beaches and golf courses make Hilton Head an easy location for families and couples. And at the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, you’ll find three pools and a prime beachfront location. Though this ocean oasis sits on over 12 miles of public beach, its location, tucked behind dunes and towering palmetto trees, make it an easy place to overlook. Surrounded by condos and private homes, this resort feels tropical and homey and offers top-notch amenities.
(Thinkstock)
Thinkstock
Tower23 HotelSan Diego
Just because you don’t want to be fighting for blanket space on the beach doesn’t always mean you want seclusion either. Perhaps what you’re looking for is a laid-back, party atmosphere. Tower23 Hotel, a boutique hotel on Pacific Beach, offers a vibrant scene. You can spend your days at the JRDN bar or enjoy the lively nightlife by the rooftop fire pit, but this hotel is all about the beach and jet skiing is a crowd favorite. Once you wind down for the day, catch an incredible sunset.
(Thinkstock)
Thinkstock
The Tides Beach ClubKennebunkport, Maine
This is the only hotel on Goose Rocks Beach in Maine that is directly across from the water. It’s a New England gem built in 1889 with plenty of historic bells and whistles accompanied by high-end contemporary amenities. With just 21 rooms, this inn offers an intimate atmosphere. In the mornings, enjoy breakfast on an ocean-facing patio. At sundown, when you’ve finally had enough sun for the day, stare out at the rocky New England coastline with a cocktail in hand, before making your way to the Tides Beach Club for mouthwatering lobster dishes.
(Thinkstock)
Thinkstock
Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach ResortOahu, Hawaii
If you’re looking for a well-appointed beach hideaway, the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort is for you. Thanks to a $110 million renovation, this hotel beckons to travelers with its coveted location on Waikiki Beach. Soak up the sun, join a surf lesson along the beach or spend your days in the LaáKea Spa. Choose from favorite treatments like the hot lava rock massage or a hydrating body wrap. Outrigger Reef is also close to Honolulu’s urban allures. Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium and Fort DeRussy are all less than a mile away. Best of all, at night, you can enjoy traditional Hawaiian music at the Kani Ka Pila Grille.
(Thinkstock)
Thinkstock
Sense Beach HouseMiami Beach, FloridaSouth Beach has one of the most intoxicating beach and nightlife scenes in the country. Most of the hotels in the area are lavish and over-the-top, but there are still some boutique properties that offer more secluded, inviting and intimate surroundings after a day of sunning and exploring top sights in South Beach. Venture to Sense Beach House, an intimate 18-room hotel with all the creature comforts and conveniences of home, plus an enticing location. After exploring the Art Deco Historic District, soak in sublime coastal views from your private balcony. When hunger sets in, head to the in-house restaurant, Local House, and try some tapas-style dishes.
(Getty Images/iStockphoto/dit26978)
Getty Images/iStockphoto/dit26978
Whale Cove InnDepoe Bay, Oregon
Some getaways are all about romance. Drive along the jaw-dropping coastline of Highway 101 and then head to the Whale Cove Inn for the ultimate weekend. This inn only has eight suites, but each is appointed with a spacious balcony and soaking tub overlooking Depoe Bay’s waters. Best of all, the property’s restaurant, Beck, is well-known for dishing out top-notch cuisine. Whale-watching, hiking and a variety of other outdoor activities are also available should you decide to venture outside your suite.
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