- With beach access, gorgeous views, water sports, and offering ultimate relaxation, beachfront hotels are some of the most coveted lodgings for vacationers.
- In response to the novel coronavirus, many top beach hotels have reopened with new procedures and protocols for a safe, socially-distanced coastal vacation.
- Our choices for the best beach hotels and coastal vacation resorts all have great beaches, attractive design, fun amenities, and are well-reviewed on trusted traveler sites.
- Read more: Is travel safe? We interviewed experts on risks associated with flying, booking hotels or Airbnbs, renting cars, and more, plus ideas on safe vacations during COVID-19.
As states and hotels reopen following the novel coronavirus, many Americans are considering a return to travel.
But with an EU ban on US travelers in place, many are sticking closer to home, choosing domestic options. And since flying opens up questions in regard to safety, traveling within driving distance just seems a bit more cautious given that it removes as many interactions with others in close quarters. Indeed, travel agents are seeing an uptick in regional travel planning.
If you’re wondering if it’s safe to travel and stay in hotels, it’s important to understand the risks. Without a vaccine, there is no firm guarantee on safety, and it’s crucial to follow guidelines from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and wear a mask, wash your hands, and maintain social distancing. Additionally, check current state travel restrictions before booking, assess your own risk levels, and consider whether you are traveling to or from a hotspot so as not to increase infection rates. Finally, be sure to stay up to date on new policies from major hotels.
However, it's still summer, and chances are, you want to hit the beach while social distancing, and make a trip out of it. Whether located on paradisaical islands or romantic, windswept coastlines, beachfront hotels that overlook the waves act like surgical glue for the soul. They boast views, plentiful activities, and sometimes, spa treatments or dining offered beachside. And of course, stretches of sand often come equipped with chairs, umbrellas, towels, and food-and-beverage service.
Our best coastal vacation resorts and hotels incorporate all of the above and cover a wide variety of geographies. They are also well-rated and reviewed on trusted traveler sites such as Trip Advisor, Booking.com, and Hotels.com, with a minimum of 4 out of 5-stars on the former and an 8.2 out of 10 on the latter two. We outlined COVID-19 policies for each property, as well.
Our options begin around $200 per night, however, all properties jump in high season and some have daily resort fees. But even the ones with the highest sticker shock are worth it for the solace they bring when we need it the most.
To learn about other hotels and safe vacation ideas during COVID, click on a link below to jump directly to more coverage:
- The best US mountain resorts for all seasons
- The best hotels for families in the US
- The best hotels near US national parks
- The best US island hotels that don't require a passport
Keep reading for the best beach hotels in the US, by state:
These are the best beach hotels in the US, sorted by state and price.
Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa - Pacific City, Oregon
Book Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa starting at $420 per night
Whether you want to catch crabs and fish from the bracing Pacific or simply enjoy them by the fire at signature restaurant, Meridien, Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa is delighted to oblige.
As the name indicates, you really couldn't get closer to the water than here, where the Nestucca River meets the Oregon coastline.
Choose from one of the 33 King or Double Queen rooms, all of which have 440 square feet (or more, if you request a corner room) and poetic views of Cape Kiwanda's waves and Haystack Rock through picture windows. With luxe rustic furnishings, cast-iron tubs, gas fireplaces, and amenities that range from a Bonavita brewing system to a Bluetooth lantern speaker, there's no need to upgrade to a two- or three-bedroom cottage unless traveling with a group.
While Tidepools Spa, which has an outdoor hot tub, and the restaurant are sophisticated, everything here is about the natural world, the adventures to be had in it, and the relationship with the small, unpretentious Pacific City community.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 of 3 hotels in Pacific City
Booking.com Rating: 9.3 out of 10
Pros: A full calendar features activities aplenty, from clamming to kayaking to earning a free pint by cleaning up the beaches. The lodge is also dog-friendly, so ask for those rooms if you're bringing your pet along.
Cons: Guests who didn't research the region are sometimes surprised by the isolation and lack of entertainment options. The hotel is two hours from Portland, so you will need a car. Also, the glass-walled showers in the King rooms are designed to provide a view of the ocean even while you bathe - which offers anyone else in the room a view of you. For more privacy, ask for a Double Queen room, which has a different setup.
COVID status and policies: This hotel reopened and is accepting reservations. Many services and amenities have been updated to ensure the well-being and safety of guests, team members, and the community. These new measures include:
- All team members will wear masks and shifts begin with a wellness check, including a temperature check.
- Guests are asked to wear face coverings in public spaces and makes will be provided upon request.
- The hotel has implemented a rigorous schedule of sanitation for all guest rooms, public spaces, and team member areas.
- New signage has been placed to help maintain proper social distancing, and hand-sanitizing stations have been placed throughout public spaces and team member areas.
- Check-in and check-out services have been redesigned for efficiency.
- Reservations are required for dinner in Meridian Restaurant & Bar, with table spacing in the dining room. Guests must wear masks while moving about the dining area. Other meals may be delivered to guest rooms.
- Private adventure outings are available with physical distancing in place and group activities are capped at six guests.
- The spa reopened for treatments on June 5, but the hot tub, steam room, and showers will remain closed.
- The fitness area and yoga studio are available for guest use with a maximum occupancy of four. Personal training sessions and private classes with social distancing in place are available.
Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort at Po'ipu Beach - Kauai, Hawaii
Book Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort at Po'ipu Beach starting at $389 per night
Ideal for a romantic getaway, this award-winning resort is known as Kauai's closest waterfront lodging. "Po'ipu" translates to "crashing waves," and this south shore beach resort is one of the sunniest spots on the island, and consistently recognized by Trip Advisor and travel magazines for its 121 rooms that are only steps from the sand.
The Spa at Ko'a Kea incorporates island clay, indigenous nut oils, locally grown sugar, coffee, and floral essences in products. Try a treatment in the outdoor seaside cabana room; you'll never want to go back to an indoor spa again. And, if you upgrade to a suite, the spa can provide an extraordinary in-room floral bath experience designed to restore and improve your immune system.
With executive chef and Kauai native Noelani Planas at the helm, the highly-rated Red Salt restaurant provides local and seasonal dishes, including ahi tartare and vanilla-scented Mahi. Sushi nights at Red Salt Lounge offer an alternative to the regular menu.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 3 of 7 hotels in Po'ipu Beach
Hotels.com Rating: 9.4
Pros: Romantic resort that makes it easy to hit the beach, book surfing lessons, or learn how to paddle a Hawaiian Outrigger Surfing Canoe on-site through Hoku Water Sports.
Cons: Some guests complain about customer service as well as small or outdated rooms.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently closed but accepting reservations in September. Hawaii has a 14-day mandatory quarantine period in place upon arrival that may or may not still be in place for future bookings. When the hotel reopens, they will follow these new protocols:
- Face masks are required in common areas.
- All guests must adhere to federal regulations including the practice of social distancing at all times, including hallways, pool, ocean lawn, and dining spaces.
- With restrictions on businesses, there may be changes to availability and operating hours of dining and spa options.
- The cleaning team has been briefed and trained on proper cleaning procedures to ensure the prevention of the COVID-19 virus.
- Public facilities will be cleaned more frequently than recommended by CDC guidelines and include enhancing and increasing the frequency of sanitation of commonly touched objects.
- Comprehensive cleaning and sanitization of guest rooms between stays.
- Additional signage throughout the hotels reminding guests and employees of healthy practices.
Wailea Beach Resort Marriott, Maui - Maui, Hawaii
Book Wailea Beach Resort - Marriott, Maui starting at $460 per night
This 22-acre playground is a terrific family-friendly beach resort, whether taking a whirl down the longest water slide in Maui (325 feet!) or nesting at the adults-only infinity pool that overlooks waters so blue you ache to paint them. Bypass the pools to walk to Wailea Beach and Ulua Beach Park.
Rooms with private balconies (also known as lanais) are spacious, beginning at 437 square feet, and are soothing with marble bathrooms and palettes of white and wheat rather than clichéd tropical hues.
Views are stunning from wherever you are on property, but particularly from the Mandara Spa, which overlooks the Molokini crater and the island of Kaho'olawe. You can also experience the grandeur of the three championship 18-hole golf courses - the Wailea Golf Club is considered one of the best in the country - or get SCUBA dive-certified.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 5 of 9 hotels in Wailea Beach
Booking.com Rating: 8.8 out of 10
Pros: The views are incredible and the spa even offers services for children. There are a variety of dining options available to cater to all tastes, from a food truck and a Starbucks to a Roy Yamaguchi venue.
Cons: The whole resort might feel a little bit Disney-ish and rooms are outdated. If you're a stickler for authenticity, this might not be the resort for you. Past guests have complained about too-few lounge chairs at the adult pool, along with premium prices for low-quality fare.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently closed and not accepting reservations until mid-September. Hawaii currently has a 14-day mandatory quarantine period in place upon arrival that may or may not still be in place. Customers should review government guidance to confirm eligibility to travel and stay at the hotel.
When the hotel reopens, they are expected to follow new policies put in place by Marriott's 'Global Cleanliness Council,' which will include the following:
- Face coverings are required in all indoor public areas.
- New cleaning technologies that include electrostatic sprayers allow for touchless disinfecting capabilities and cleaning processes, along with and new regimen changes.
- In public spaces, surfaces are treated with hospital-grade disinfectants, and cleaning is done with increased frequency.
- In guest rooms, Marriott has added detailed cleaning practices requiring all surfaces be thoroughly cleaned with hospital-grade disinfectants. Disinfecting wipes will be placed in each room for guests' personal use.
- Signage in lobbies will remind guests to maintain social distancing protocols.
- Marriott is planning to add partitions at front desks to provide an extra level of precaution and hand sanitizing stations will be added as well.
- Touchless services will be added via Marriott's mobile app.
Tower23 Hotel - San Diego, California
Book Tower23 Hotel starting at $282 per night
Sleek and modern, with a distinct minimalist architectural style, Tower23 takes its moniker from the lifeguard tower near the hotel.
Tower23 also takes its position as a place to sleep seriously. White goose-down duvets almost guarantee that once you retire for the night, you're going to have a hard time getting up. The rooms themselves are uncluttered and painted in deep blues and aqua hues, and suites come with living rooms.
Still, whether you start or end the day with a sea-inspired spa treatment, the friendly resort staff knows their role is to get you out to the beach. The proximity to those Pacific Beach sands and the frothing surf is a large part of the hotel's appeal, which is why the rooms face the west and bikes and beach accouterments are included. Even the highly regarded JRDN features a 70-foot long "wave wall" that reflects the famous sunset every night.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 3 of 292 hotels in San Diego
Booking.com Rating: 9.4 out of 10
Pros: Hotel staff are lauded for being both down home friendly and superbly professional at this beachy enclave where even the pool comes with ocean views.
Cons: Some guests complain about the area, which may see some homeless people hanging around. Others don't appreciate the austerity with furniture.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations, with new cleaning policies in place that include:
- Increase the already stringent frequency and rigor of cleaning and sanitation in all public areas, guest rooms, and office space. The process includes EPA approved disinfectants and allocating extra time for housekeepers to focus on high touch areas.
- Rotating in use guest rooms to allow more time between guest and staff entering rooms for cleaning.
- Provide additional training for all employees on safety and illness prevention, with a strict "don't work sick" policy for all employees.
- Employees are required to wear masks when they come within six feet of other people as required by San Diego County. Guests are asked to do the same.
- Implement contactless check-in plus temporary reduced services such as modified and/or suspended food and beverage, in-stay room cleaning, valet parking.
- Continuous monitoring and adherence to all recommendations of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the San Diego County Public Health Order.
Sanctuary Beach Resort - Monterey, California
Book Sanctuary Beach Resort starting at $296 per night
Pretty and romantic, this eco-efficient resort is ideal for couples or a group of friends. Aptly named, the Sanctuary Beach Resort is burrowed into the Marina Dunes of Monterey Beach and presents amazing opportunities from whale-watching trips to learning from local artisans.
Housing is in water-facing bungalows where rooms start at 380 square feet and come with a private patio or deck, as well as French slip covered chairs, and binoculars for the aforementioned whale and other wildlife watching. A natural gas-fueled fireplace provides warmth, and beds are made up with Harbor Linen's Monocle Collection that provide a spectacular night's sleep.
Tour around town on specially made Dutch-inspired Republic bicycles, and revel in complimentary nature walks, led by local guides through the Marina Dunes Preserves, every Saturday and Sunday. Complete the experience with a picnic basket on the beach from the hotel's signature restaurant, Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 2 of 9 in Marina
Booking.com Rating: 8.8 out of 10
Pros: The proximity to nature, wildlife, and water is idyllic. Salt Wood's chef also makes a daily salt exfoliation rub out of local and seasonal ingredients for the spa.
Cons: Bathrooms are outdated, and spa facilities are un-noteworthy, though treatments are unique. In some bungalows, the view of the ocean is blocked.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations. They have announced a focus on health and wellness, as part of their EarthView sustainability program, which is highlighted by their Rest Assured program. Rest Assured is committed to a five-point system that collectively takes a holistic and innovative approach to guest experience, safety, and wellness.
Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel - Santa Monica, California
Book Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel starting at $378 per night
Dependable and reliably upscale without being pretentious, the Loews hotel brand always performs well in popular markets. Parked on Santa Monica Beach next to the Pacific Park Amusement Park, the Loews Santa Monica is no exception.
The contemporary interior design couldn't say "Southern California" more. The double-story lobby's floor-to-ceiling windows frame each inch of beach and ray of sun. The 347 rooms and suites, recently refreshed, are done in creamy tones of white and tan with wave-patterned carpets and sky-blue accent pillows. Views alternate between the beach and palm trees, or the fourth-floor pool deck and fire pits.
Have a light meal next to one of those 13 oceanfront fire pits, or take advantage of a more elegant al fresco opportunity on the terrace of Ocean & Vine, the celebrated coastal California cuisine restaurant. The daily resort fee includes beach and pool amenities, so be sure to allow the pool concierge to pamper you with fruit smoothies and spray Evian mist as many times as you require.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 14 of 38 hotels in Santa Monica
Booking.com Rating: 8.5 out of 10
Pros: Loews is a trusted luxury brand offering a consistent high-end experience with great pool and beach facilities. Extras like beach volleyball, footballs, soccer balls, or other sand sport fixtures are all easily provided by the concierge. Plus, Venice Beach is only two miles away and complimentary shuttle service makes it easy to visit without the hassle of parking.
Cons: Not all extras are included in the pesky resort fee. Bikes will cost extra, as will boogie boards, scooters, skateboards, and Rollerblades.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations, with rigorous new procedures in place that include:
- When physical distancing is not possible in common areas, staff and guests are asked to wear masks. Based on role and responsibility, some staff will be required to wear gloves as well. All vendors will wear masks and gloves when inside the hotel.
- All staff and vendors will undergo temperature checks before entering the hotel.
- Improved standards for cleaning guestrooms, meeting rooms, outlets, corridors and public areas with a Peroxide Multi Surface Cleaner and Disinfectant, an EPA approved product created by Ecolab, which is effective against emerging viral pathogens and COVID-19
- This includes the frequent cleaning of "high touch areas" such as telephones, remote controls, door handles, light switches, elevators, and tabletops, among others.
- High alcohol content hand sanitizer stations have been added to front desks, spas, fitness centers, meeting rooms and other high traffic guest areas. There are also increased protocols for team member handwashing.
- Contactless experiences will be offered that includes an app to control the television, chat requests for room service, concierge, or valet; and dropping new linens and towels in a sealed bag at the door instead of servicing the room.
- When and wherever possible the hotel will leave occupied guestrooms vacant for 48 hours, upon checkout, before thoroughlycleaning and checking in a new guest.
- The number of passengers will be limited in each elevator ride and lobby attendants will clean the elevator area frequently.
- Many bars, lounges, and restaurants will be closed until proper social distancing guidelines are in place. Service will be offered as takeout and delivery.
The Westin Jekyll Island - Jekyll Island, Georgia
Book The Westin Jekyll Island starting at $175 per night
With a manicured lawn in front and a beach in the back, this LEED-certified, pet-friendly resort represents both the south and the raw beauty of Jekyll Island to a T. Lushly landscaped with palm trees and tropical plants, the hotel offers nature, tranquility, and immediate access to seagrass dunes and sandy beaches, where birds, sea turtles, and other wildlife abounds.
Clean and modern, with updated technology and complimentary Wi-Fi, the business-accessible rooms are generously sized with at least a partial view of the water and a balcony. Some have inland views and no balconies, though, so be specific when you book. Westin's trademarked Heavenly bedding is especially comfortable, and the rainforest showerheads are comforting.
Dining options include The Reserve Steak House, which features native Georgia seafood in addition to meat. Before or after a meal, perch at Harry's Lounge for a craft cocktail and look over the dunes. A 20-mile bike path that stretches in front of the hotel is a terrific alternative to working out in the WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio, even though it is nicely outfitted and open 24/7.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 4 of 10 hotels in Jekyll Island
Booking.com Rating: 9.0 out of 10
Pros: The expansive grounds are well-kept and inviting, and electric car charging stations are a nice perk.
Cons: Because everyone has to drive to get here, parking can be a problem. Also, don't expect easy access to ride-sharing services. If you don't need to drive to pick up an item, don't; Jekyll Island Beach Village is next door for all your shopping needs.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations. They are following new policies put in place by Marriott's 'Global Cleanliness Council,' which include the following:
- Face coverings required in all indoor areas.
- New cleaning technologies that include electrostatic sprayers allow for touchless disinfecting capabilities and cleaning processes, along with and new regimen changes.
- In public spaces, surfaces are treated with hospital-grade disinfectants, and cleaning is done with increased frequency.
- In guest rooms, Marriott has added detailed cleaning practices requiring all surfaces be thoroughly cleaned with hospital-grade disinfectants. Disinfecting wipes will be placed in each room for guests' personal use.
- Signage in lobbies will remind guests to maintain social distancing protocols.
- Marriott is planning to add partitions at front desks to provide an extra level of precaution and hand sanitizing stations will be added as well.
- Touchless services will be added via Marriott's mobile app.
The Diplomat Beach Resort - Hollywood, Florida
Book The Diplomat Beach Resort starting at $208
This lavish Hollywood resort is located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, bridging the land between the beach and the Intracoastal, so it's essentially surrounded by water.
After a $100 million renovation that was completed in 2017, the hotel emerged with 1,000 rooms and suites, most of which have views of the waves. Rooms have either a sunrise or sunset color scheme, depending on which side of the resort they face. The lobby is dramatic, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows at the back where the indoor-outdoor wraparound Hotel Bar is located. That lobby also contains eight noteworthy restaurant concepts that range from Geoffrey Zakarian's Point Royal to the Diplomat Prime Steak House.
While the beach offers jet skiing, ocean kayaking, and paddleboard rentals, younger family members also appreciate the Dip + Slide water park, where the slides end in a lagoon pool. There, parents can keep sight lines on the kids while enjoying poolside spa and lunch service. The kids' club, Ocean Ambassadors, relieves parents of duty so that they can enjoy The Diplomat Golf Club and The Diplomat Tennis Center, too.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 14 of 79 hotels in Hollywood
Booking.com Rating: 8.2
Pros: The hotel is only a mile from Hollywood Beach's Broadwalk, where dozens of restaurants and cafes offer service. You can also head there for bicycle and water sports rentals if the hotel's beach gets too busy. Across the street, The Marina at Diplomat Landing provides extra venues for dining and entertainment.
Cons: Because this is a popular convention hotel, it's crowded when fully booked, and can become competitive for spa times and pool loungers. Also, the high-rises in the area block the sun by mid-afternoon depending on daylight savings time.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently closed but accepting reservations for September. When they reopen, face coverings will be required in all indoor public areas for guests and team members. The following services and amenities will not be available: airport shuttle, business center, complimentary evening social, concierge, executive lounge, fitness center, breakfast, golf, on-site restaurant(s), pool, room service, spa, valet parking.
South Seas Island Resort - Captiva Island, Florida
Book South Seas Island Resort starting at $159 per night
A combination 330-acre wildlife sanctuary and resort, South Seas dominates Captiva Island. It's a family-friendly Gulf Coast resort that offers a variety of rooms, multi-bedroom villas, and private houses where you very much feel at home - if your home comes with sea turtles, manatees, dolphins, and long-legged water birds of various hues.
This former key lime plantation now caters to a variety of families, groups, and couples all looking for the same things: relaxation and beachside entertainment. Fortunately, it's easy to find, given that rooms in the Harbourside Hotel are close to nine restaurant options, the resort's interactive pool complex, the Gulf-side golf course, the marina, and the beach. Jet-Skis, fishing charters, sailing lessons, banana boat rides, parasailing, and kayak tours are just a few of the on-site activities that are available to book. If that's not enough adventure and exercise, check out the beach and paddleboard yoga classes.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 4 of 4 hotels in Captiva Island
Booking.com Rating: 8.2
Pros: The pools are large and varied and the beaches are filled with shells, unlike the fine white sands on the northwest and east coasts of Florida. Looking for sharks' teeth is another great, free activity for kids.
Cons: This is a huge resort and it's easy to get lost. You'll need a car, golf cart, or catch the provided trolley to get around. Depending on the room, villa, or home that you rent, you might have issues with upkeep or maintenance as some are timeshare units and in need of renovation. As such, design and decor can vary dramatically from unit to unit.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations. They are following new policies that include:
- The vast majority of outlets are operational, however, some may have reduced hours or limited services.
- Masks are required at all indoor public spaces.
- Standards for hygiene, cleaning, and safety have been elevated to follow CDC guidelines, and as such, the hotel will not offer any early check-in or late check-out requests until further notice.
- Training hotel staff on cleaning and sanitizing procedures developed by AIMClean, the hotel's proprietary robust cleaning and sanitizing certificate program that includes best practices from in-house and outside experts, such as Ecolab.
- Increasing the frequency of cleaning and special sanitizing using EPA-approved products throughout all public areas of the hotel, meeting spaces, guest rooms, and work areas with a focus on high-touch areas and hard surfaces.
- Providing food and beverage offerings in a grab and go format or touchless delivery.
- Physical distancing throughout all areas of the resort including public areas, fitness centers, meeting spaces, lobby, pool, beach, and other retail outlets.
- Hotel staff must use PPE such as face coverings, temperature checks, with increased personal protocols for handwashing and wearing gloves.
- Encouraging all guests to utilize touchless services, from check-in to making payments.
Omni Amelia Island Resort - Amelia Island, Florida
Book Omni Amelia Island Resort starting at $229 per night
The versatility of the well-named Omni brand is legend. It can work as easily for a corporate retreat or destination wedding as it can for a couples' getaway or family vacation. That's because the resort, with 402 oceanfront rooms, sprawls over the tip of this barrier island, and includes everything from a conference center to a chapel.
Done up in pastel blues, aquas, and creams - with a patterned or red accent thrown in - the rooms start at a liberal 425 square feet. Beachy decor (think cane back chairs) extends to the balconies. The beds are particularly comfortable, with 330-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets over pillow top mattresses.
If you don't want to take advantage of the 3.5 miles of beach that beckons right outside the window, check out what the venue calls its "multi-tiered pool deck." For adults-only, the infinity-edge pool is highly tempting, and for families, the 10,000-square-foot splash pool and water park is just as exciting. On cool nights, cozy up to two oversized fire pits.
Omni Amelia Island Resort is renowned for its two golf courses, one designed by Tom Fazio and the other by Pete Dye. Park the kids, if you have them, at Camp Amelia and head out for a round or two. Or take them with you. There's instruction for all ages available.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 10 of 14 hotels in Amelia Island
Booking.com Rating: 8.5 out of 10
Pros: Sweeping views and stunning grounds with a mind-boggling array of dining options from 10 different restaurants that range from steak to seafood to Southern-inspired fare.
Cons: Cleanliness and maintenance issues pop up among customer complaints from time to time.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations. Omni Hotels & Resorts has enacted the 'Stay A Part of Clean' initiative, which includes new cleaning guidelines and additional processes and procedures to ensure the health and safety of guests. That entails:
- Daily health screening, including temperature checks for staff, as well as frequent sanitization of all common areas, thorough re-training on proper hygiene, and best practices including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Increased frequency of sanitization with EPA-certified cleansers that are CDC-compliant, additional guest sanitization stations in public areas, increased cleaning of HVAC systems, and replacement of air filters.
- Signage and distance indicators will be used throughout the hotel in high-traffic areas to allow for and encourage proper social distancing.
- Custom menus will focus on quality ingredients that limit contact in kitchen prep, with attendant-only served buffets, plated meals, receptions, and coffee stations. Hotels will use single-use, individually sealed food and cutlery items, where applicable.
- Cleaned and disinfected guest rooms will have an "Omni Safe & Clean" seal of approval sticker upon completion with single-use amenities provided in each guest room, as well as enhanced disinfecting of high-touch items, and requested items delivered in a contactless manner.
The Miami Beach EDITION - Miami Beach, Florida
Book The Miami Beach EDITION starting at $299 per night
With a bowling alley, an ice-skating rink, and a nightclub all in the lowest level alone, this hotel practically screams fun. But that doesn't mean it lacks luxury. The tropical greenery and sleek midcentury modern decor stuns from the moment you walk into the posh lobby.
Custom and exclusive are two words that guide you through the EDITION experience, from the La Labo bath products to the fragrance made just for the hotel. Sip creative craft cocktails and trendy bites at Matador Bar or outdoors at Tropicale. Follow with a dip in the serene pool to soak up Miami's Art Deco feels and beach breezes. Finish with an exquisite pan-Latin meal at Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Matador Room.
Standard rooms, larger than average for the region, are tastefully decorated in hues of driftwood and white with marble bathrooms, wood paneling, and a variety of natural textures. Feather mattresses with pillow tops and duvets ensure an excellent night's sleep.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 12 of 222 hotels in Miami Beach
Booking.com Rating: 8.8 out of 10
Pros: Rooms are larger than average for the region, which helps justify the higher price. Happy hour oysters, welcome drinks, beach attendants, and Marriott Bonvoy upgrades all add to the sophisticated appeal of staying here.
Cons: The overbuilding on the beach in this area has created a wind tunnel. Be prepared for the breeze to be super strong at night. When it's full occupancy during holidays and school breaks, guests complain about noise and slow housekeeping service.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations. They are following new policies put in place by Marriott's 'Global Cleanliness Council,' which include the following:
- Masks are required in indoor common spaces.
- New cleaning technologies that include electrostatic sprayers allow for touchless disinfecting capabilities and cleaning processes, along with and new regimen changes.
- In public spaces, surfaces are treated with hospital-grade disinfectants, and cleaning is done with increased frequency.
- In guest rooms, Marriott has added detailed cleaning practices requiring all surfaces be thoroughly cleaned with hospital-grade disinfectants. Disinfecting wipes will be placed in each room for guests' personal use.
- Signage in lobbies will remind guests to maintain social distancing protocols.
- Marriott is planning to add partitions at front desks to provide an extra level of precaution and hand sanitizing stations will be added as well.
- Touchless services will be added via Marriott's mobile app.
WaterColor Inn & Resort - Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
Book WaterColor Inn & Resort starting at $399 per night
Fair warning: WaterColor Inn & Resort is situated in the prettiest part of Florida Panhandle, where the award-winning beaches are so white and fine that you can't help but think of cake icing.
David Rockwell designed the 60 rooms starting at 500-square-feet with Adirondack chairs on the balconies and cabana showers on the patios. The 500-acre setting includes long leaf pine forests for hiking and biking, a coastal dune lake for kayaking and canoeing, and a 1,400-square-feet of private beach. The hotel is also next door to Grayton Beach State Park, where you can make good use of the property's complimentary bicycles, kayaks, and canoes.
Renovated in 2019, the resort also offers local seafood, Southern, and family-friendly fare via FOOW (formerly known as Fish Out Of Water) and a terrific collection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails. The spa and fitness center provides plenty of distraction, as do beach bonfires and outdoor movies.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 3 of 3 hotels in Santa Rosa Beach
Booking.com Rating: 9.3 out of 10
Pros: The location might feel remote, but satellite and cable flat-screen televisions and comped Wi-Fi keep you connected seamlessly. And Santa Rosa Beach and the small towns that surround it all feature plenty of restaurants and boutiques.
Cons: Occasionally, nature gets in the way - the dunes can block the view, for example. Santa Rosa is also difficult to get to from certain parts of the country.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations. New policies include:
- Enhanced sanitation procedures and frequency throughout WaterColor Inn.
- Enhanced hotel housekeeping protocols,
- Access to hand sanitizer in key locations around the hotel with physical-distancing procedures in all communal spaces, including beach access.
- Community pools are monitored by the WaterColor Community Association; chairs and tables are set in line with physical-distancing guidelines.
- Touchless entry to hotel and hotel facilities, when possible.
- Making mask and gloves available to guests, upon request.
- Thermal temperature controls for all team members and guests, as needed.
- Wristbands will be issued and required to enter the Beach Club. Lounge chairs will be spaced 6 feet apart and sanitized after each use (please do not move furniture). Towel service will not be available and any towels left unattended will be removed and sanitized.
- To adhere to group size limitations, pool entry will be based on a first-come, first-served basis, and monitored to ensure limited occupancy is maintained. Towel services will not be available and pool decks will close in phases for proper sanitation procedures beginning at 5 p.m. daily.
- The public beach is open but the only permitted activities are sunbathing, walking, jogging, fishing, swimming, paddleboarding, boating, and surfing. All guests need to vacate their beach chairs promptly at 4 p.m. to allow for proper sanitation.
- The gym and spa are open but no couples massages are permitted at this time.
- Dining will be available but with modified service.
- Complimentary bicycles are available for guest use; please return prior to dusk. Bicycles will be sanitized after each use.
The Sanctuary Hotel at Kiawah Island Golf Resort - Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Book The Sanctuary Hotel at Kiawah Island Golf Resort starting at $505 per night
Kiawah Island is more known for its stately residences than hotels, but one of the few luxury hotels available is the elegant Sanctuary Hotel. It's also the only hotel located directly on the island's 10 miles of beachfront property.
King bedrooms begin at 520 square feet with custom-made mattresses outfitted with matelassé bed covers. Lounge on them in the Italian linen robes provided, or just savor the stunning bathrooms with marble walk-in showers, double vanities, and soaking tubs.
If the beach begins to pall, visit two separate pools, one for adults and one for families, which are tended by beach concierges. To continue your workout routine, enjoy LCD flat-panel touch screens on cardio equipment, followed by a dip in the indoor pool. Or choose private Pilates and yoga sessions with personal instructors. Play outdoors on any of the five world-class golf courses or tennis on the 22 courts in the famous Roy Barth Tennis Center, now directed by Roy's son, Jonathan.
As guest after guest notes, you get what you pay for at The Sanctuary Hotel. A room might not come cheaply, but the experience lingers.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 of 3 hotels in Kiawah Island
Hotels.com Rating: 9.4 out of 10
Pros: The Sanctuary Chapel opened in 2019, making destination weddings even easier. In other helpful news, the resort has partnered with Volvo and maintains a fleet of new vehicles for first-come, first-serve use (see the concierge).
Cons: Some regulars say service has declined in the past year. Regardless, it's best to stay in the hotel. While villas and rental homes are also available, these are part of the resort holdings as a whole but not part and parcel of the hotel, which offers guests separate privileges.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations. New policies include:
- Once a guest has checked into their room, staff will not enter the room for the duration of the guest's visit, including daily housekeeping services. Fresh towels and bath amenities will be delivered anytime to a guest's door upon request. Nightly turndown service is also currently suspended.
- Chair and umbrella service will be available with seating restrictions at both the outdoor pool and Sanctuary beach access.
- The Sanctuary pools and fitness center are reserved for hotel guests only, and will operate with restricted use, and require reservations.
- Bike rentals, beach chair and umbrella service, and youth programs are by reservation only.
- Select retail stores are open with restricted occupancy, allowing for safe social distancing.
- Guest temperature checks are implemented at all restaurants throughout the resort, using a contactless thermometer.
- Golf courses and tennnis courts are open.
- The salon and spa are open, however, many amenities are suspended.
- Dining is available at many restaurants, with modified services.
Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa - Montauk, New York
Book Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa starting at $565 per night
The embodiment of the Hamptons, Gurney's is the only hotel in Montauk that's open year-round. Stylish, sexy, and focused on service, the resort is a crowded, see-and-be-seen hot spot during the summer season when prices spike. But booking May through September gives you access to the 1,000-square-foot private beach, with its array of lounges and daybeds, as well as The Beach Club for food and beverage service. However, some seating is reservation only, so be sure to inquire about where you're allowed to sunbathe.
Standard rooms feature natural cottons and linens and a crisp, nautical palette of white, beige, gray, and navy. Don't let the bathroom's vintage brass fixtures fool you - the rainfall showerheads are as up-to-date as they come.
If you like steam rooms, you'll love the Finnish Rock Sauna, Russian Steam Room, and Roman Bath at the Seawater Spa, which offers Thalasso therapies. The indoor-outdoor seawater pool is a draw, too, as are the five dining-and-drinking options, including a sibling to Manhattan's renowned Scarpetta.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 11 of 39 hotels in Montauk
Booking.com Rating: 8.6 out of 10
Pros: Gurney's is one of a few luxury hotels in the area, offering an upscale alternative to many of the renovated motels along this stretch coastline that charge a similar pricepoint for less of a resort feel. Also, the Seawater Spa offers bridal services, so destination weddings are easy to arrange.
Cons: The standard rooms and bathrooms are tiny for the money, and guests complain that they can be worn out and have climate control problems.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations. New policies include:
- New steps to ensure safety, from check-in to check-out, including the addition of rigorous cleaning protocols, increasing the frequency of cleaning, and placing hand sanitizing stations, wipes, and masks throughout the property.
- Self parking upon request and valet options.
- Arrival package inclusive of your room key, letter from your Resort Manager, and details on in-room programming offerings, which are expanded to include in-room dining menus, kids activity kits, and curated playlists.
- Utilization of additional outdoor spaces throughout the resort.
- Scarpetta Beach outdoor dining now open, reservations required. The Beach Club, The Firepit, and Tillie's are open to resort guests only. Reservations required.
- Due to state regulations the fitness center is closed and the spa is currently closed as well.
- Travelers must self-quarantine for 14 days from these states (subject to change): Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Mexico, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah Washington D.C. and Wisconsin.
Wequasset Resort and Golf Club - Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Book Wequasset Resort and Golf Club starting at $422 per night
Cape Cod has a certain captivation that exerts a pull like a magician on a rabbit's ears. And the 22 historic buildings that comprise Wequasset Resort and Golf Club are Cape Cod incarnate, with beachside rooms and villas replete with plush armchairs, white wicker dining sets, gas fireplaces, and marble bathrooms.
Twenty-Eight Atlantic is not only the resort's iconic restaurant, but it attracts foodies from all over the Cape. Chef James Hackney's fluke crudo with salmon roe or his lobster carbonara served on Limoges china, explains why. After, enjoy cocktails under a pergola at LiBAYtion, which features stunning views of the water.
The neighboring par-72, 18-hole Cape Cod National golf course is one of those courses that is always and forever beloved by serious golfers. But for casual players, it's also one of the prettiest places to play (even if you will tee off into the trees). Four Har-Tu tennis courts provide another option. But don't forget why you're here. If you want to get onto the water, Down Cape Charters & Boat Rentals will arrange any kind of kayaking, sailing, or fishing tour or charter.
Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 of 5 hotels in Harwich
Booking.com Rating: 9.3 out of 10
Pros: Stunning Cape Cod scenery with a full slate of resort programming, including a children's center, supervised splash park, and playground that makes it especially family-friendly.
Cons: The beach and pools are crowded in the summer season, and guests complain about cleanliness and upkeep issues in certain rooms.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations. New policies include:
- The hotel will communicate with you prior to arrival to determine your housekeeping preferences, dining reservations, and planned activities and encourage you to use their texting platform for communication prior to and during your stay.
- Check-in will be offered curbside and staff will use contactless credit card devices. Guests will be directed to an assigned parking space. Bell service will be available, but optional. Luggage will be left at the entrance to guest room and luggage handles will be disinfected.
- Concierge service will be available virtually or by appointment.
- Social distancing practices will be observed, and staff will wear face coverings and gloves.
- You may depart remotely; a guest folio may be reviewed on your television.
- Housekeeping services will be provided based upon guest preferences with the option to receive daily service and nightly turn-down service or to have linens, towels, and amenities delivered to the room or left at the entrance instead in a sealed bag.
- All staff will wear masks and gloves and changed frequently when cleaning guest rooms and bathrooms.
- Staff has been trained to properly address high touch points and avoid any possible cross-contamination when cleaning.
- When possible, guest rooms and suites will be left vacant for 24 hours between check-out and check-in.
- A letter will be placed in each guest room noting the specific policies and protocols the resort has adapted for cleanliness and sanitization.
- All restaurants and bars will follow the guidelines set by Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker. In-Room dining will be available to guests and other meals may be enjoyed on patios, decks, or other outdoor areas to allow proper social distancing. Restaurant dining will require a la carte menus and reservations, with stringent cleaning practices.
- The pool area seating capacity has been redesigned to accommodate social distancing policies. Cabanas will be available with upgraded food and beverage selections. All lounge and beach chairs will be thoroughly sanitized after each use. Prepackaged sunscreen and twice daily refreshments will be offered. The public jacuzzis will remain closed per the state.
- Additional seating will be offered on the private beach with beach chairs, umbrellas and towels provided.
- The main fitness center has a maximum capacity of five guests.
Inn by the Sea - Cape Elizabeth, Maine
Book Inn by the Sea starting at $378 per night
Located in Cape Elizabeth, just seven miles north of Portland, Maine, the ecologically friendly Inn by the Sea commands a mile of sand on Crescent Beach that guests access by strolling through lush nature. The entire 61-room and suite property, which is also landscaped with indigenous flowers and bushes, attracts native birds and butterflies and is an Instagram lover's dream.
Because Crescent Beach is spacious and the property limited, the beach never gets crowded, though there is also a pool. On cooler evenings, it's also extremely pleasant to sit out on the expansive patios and balconies that rim the rooms and suites, which are decorated with a variety of lush textiles, metallic accents, and marble countertops.
A spa provides ocean-inspired treatments that use seaweed, salts, oils, and marine peptides. Dinner at Sea Glass, one of the best restaurants in the area, is an inventive adventure in seafood, especially if you order the tasting menu. The chef also is a whiz with vegan menus as well as gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free dishes.
Trip Advisor Ranking: No ranking of hotels (it may be the only one of its caliber in Cape Elizabeth) but 4.5 stars out of 1,610 reviews
Booking.com Rating: 9.5 out of 10
Pros: There's plenty to do with regular calendars that provide information on activities ranging from family movie nights to mixology classes. The resort is also pet-friendly.
Cons: While the property provides some activities and games like bocce, it doesn't offer a ton of recreation. It's best used as a base to explore Portland and the surrounding area.
COVID status and policies: This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations. New policies include:
- Touchless curbside check-in. Guests may pre-register and receive key packets without entering the inn.
- Enhanced housekeeping services to ensure the safety and well-being of all guests and hotel staff.
- Expanded space between tables both indoor and outdoor at dining venues.
- Social distancing will be observed at the pool, outdoor decks, and throughout the resort.
- All team members will wear face masks and receive training on COVID-19 safety and sanitation protocols that will also be supplemented with various in-state certification courses.
- Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) Items will be available for guests upon request, such as gloves and masks, and each guest room will be pre-stocked with hand sanitizer.
- Each guestroom will be carefully inspected and overstocked with various items to ensure a safe and seamless arrival experience.
- Upon request, housekeeping will access your room to provide service and restock linens and amenities. Guests requesting limited service should coordinate in advance. It is preferred that the room be vacant when staff enter/exit. Fresh linens and towels along with any other requested amenities will be packaged and placed at your door upon request
- The frequency of cleaning and sanitizing has been increased in all public spaces with an emphasis on frequent contact surfaces. In addition, the frequency of air filter replacement and HVAC system cleaning has been increased and fresh air exchange will be maximized.
- All pool chaise lounge chairs have been preset in groups of two, with one table and umbrella offering a total of 24 available seats, all set six feet apart.
- Beach chairs and umbrellas will be sanitized before and after each use and set six feet apart.
- The spa and fitness center are now open, with reduced hours and new policies to protect associates and guests.
