California – Islands https://www.islands.com The world's most beautiful island travel to the Caribbean, Hawaii, Tahiti and Mexico with expert reviews of resorts, snorkeling and the best islands to live on. Tue, 16 May 2023 18:29:53 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.2 https://www.islands.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/favicon-isl-1.png California – Islands https://www.islands.com 32 32 The Ultimate California Vacation Experience Awaits at The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay https://www.islands.com/resorts/california-ritz-carlton-half-moon-bay-golf/ Tue, 16 May 2023 01:26:50 +0000 https://www.islands.com/?p=46971 From the majestic scenery to the curves of the golf course, this resort is the gold standard of the Golden State.

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An aerial view of The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay resort in California.
It’s a setting that feels half a world away, or maybe even out of this world. The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

On the wildflower-speckled bluffs of Northern California, north of Santa Cruz, south of San Francisco, The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay ornaments a wild and cinematic stretch of shoreline high above the Pacific’s barreling tide. Beneath a moody sky, parents are sipping vino fireside, while children, laughing and layered, roast one marshmallow after another. Gliding along the seaside cliffs, a flock of brown pelicans cruises coastal winds over The Old Course’s postcard 18th hole, slowly fading into the vast green landscape.

It’s a cool April evening at the 261-room luxury retreat and it feels like I’m anywhere but The Golden State. Maybe not anywhere, somewhere quite specific to be exact: Scotland. A case for Ireland could equally be made, but my original instinct, punctuated by the temperature, the fast-moving fog, and the hotel’s castle-esque perch in the hilly, unspoiled terrain has Scotland on my mind. And this was before Lynne the Bagpiper, and the ever-nearing sound of his woodwind instrument, entered stage left, stamping a big Gaelic glow on my heart.

Lynne Miller, the bagpiper at The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay resort in California.
In a state known for celebrities, Lynne Miller is a superstar here. The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

Clad in full-on Highland dress—tartan-patterned kilt, sporran, and all—the white-mustachioed musician looks as if he’d just left a Scottish wedding in Inverness, or Dornoch even. His arrival is part of a nightly ceremony at The Ritz-Carlton, timed with the sun falling into the Pacific Ocean. Unfortunately, the marine layer has been thicker than a Celtic fortress since I arrived, but Lynne spots a gap in the distant horizon. Just before his final song, he leans into me and says, “We might get a green flash.”

Having lived near the Southern California shore for a couple of years in my 20s plus annual vacations to Florida’s Emerald Coast since I was a boy, I’ve witnessed many a memorable beachfront sunset in my 37 years on this glorious planet. A green flash, though? That was new vernacular to me and what sounded like a Marvel movie hero. Two minutes to sundown and no time to elaborate, Lynne the Bagpiper takes a big breath and kicks off his finale.

A fire pit view of the sunset from The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay resort in California.
There’s no shortage of perfect spots for enjoying the views and sunsets. The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

Sure enough, the sun drops from the clouds into a clean ribbon of now-orange sky. Not knowing what I “might” see, I stare with conviction as “Amazing Grace” saturates the scene, the irony of singing the lyrics “was blind but now I see” while gazing at a giant ball of hot plasma not lost on me. As the sun’s crown fades from the horizon, a green star—as I would describe it—winks at me as if to say, “Goodnight.” The green flash!

Outwardly, I grin from ear to ear. Inwardly, I let the spectacle I just so happened to walk into, an optical phenomenon caused by light refracting in the atmosphere, wash over me. The uncommon meteorological event lasts one to two seconds… tops. Had Lynne the Bagpiper not tipped me off, I wouldn’t have recognized it.

“Did you see it?” he asks me excitedly as soon as his last note dissolved into the sea. Wide-eyed and at a loss for words, I nod my head silently. Smiling too, Lynne the Bagpiper understands. “That was a good one!” he says. I don’t want to correct the man of the moment, but I have to because I disagree. “No,” I say. “That was magical.”

The beach adjacent to The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay resort in California.
The beach alone should have guests falling in love with the surroundings. The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

Bagpipes and sunset ceremonies aren’t the only reason to book a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, which opened in 2001 and seamlessly blends into the weathered California coastline. The scenery will certainly lure you westward, but the food, spa, trails, beaches, and golf will keep you there. From recreation to relaxation, there is a little bit of something for everyone. For adults, that starts with a complimentary glass of wine when you check-in.

Each of my three mornings began at The Conservatory, one of three on-site restaurants, where I sipped coffee windowside so as to overlook the Big Blue Pacific Ocean. If you’re wondering, yes, as a matter of fact, I am that guy who brought binoculars to an indoor breakfast at a five-star hotel. Lo and behold, my naked eye spots the spout of a migratory whale in between bites of my Coastal Egg Benedict. Monique, my waitress, hasn’t seen one this season, but she did see a porpoise fly out the water yesterday. My binos do help me zoom in on Mavericks, however, home to some of the world’s heaviest waves on the north end of Half Moon Bay.

The view from the Ocean Terrace restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay resort in California.
You never know when a whale might make an appearance during your meal at the Ocean Terrace. The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

For lunch, there’s never a dull moment at the Ocean Terrace, a casual spot to grab a local microbrew or some Napa Valley bubbles and indulge al-fresco from the raw oyster bar and grill on the Ocean Lawn. For an elevated dinner, a reservation at Navio, The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay’s acclaimed restaurant, is a certified must-book. There, I poached another table with a view, a throne if you will, while dining like a king: kaluga caviar, Mount Lassen trout, and wild black cod in a Champagne beurre blanc sauce. Horace, my world-class waiter and a golfer himself, informs me that the winds on The Ocean Course post-three o’clock can be unforgiving.  “When are you teeing it up?” he asks.

“2:30,” I reply—and together we smile.

With a Sunday matinee tee time, a sign I interpret as having played my way into the final group, I take full advantage of The Ritz-Carlton’s amenities, inside and outside, prior to my round. To get the blood flowing, I walk the paved Coastal Trail alongside bundled-up couples and parents with strollers. Running parallel with the Ocean Course’s final few holes, the path’s crisp ocean air provides a preview of my back-nine conditions to come and a front-row seat to a mustard seed field in bloom.

Then, it’s time for my executive workout in the hotel’s 16,000-sq. ft. spa. For the next 90 minutes, I shuffle between sauna and steam room, steam room, and sauna to loosen up my back and golfer’s elbow and hit the 41-degree cold-plunge pool to stave off inflammation. Bookmarked for a future visit: the Redwood Forest Ritual, an 80-minute massage named after the giant evergreen.

The 16th hole of the Ocean Course at The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay resort in California.
The 16th hole of the Ocean Course is so stunning, it feels like a piece of golf history. The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

By the time I reach the inward nine on The Ocean Course, one of two championship tracks at Half Moon Bay Links, the sky has parted, a birdie has been carded (at the 7th hole), and a male Anna’s hummingbird, with its rose-pink throat and crown, has put on an aerial performance to remember, repeatedly dive-bombing some native shrubbery as I teed off on the par-5 8th hole, which I can only assume was an homage to the 20-footer I’d just rattled home. What else, my playing partner, Jeff, on his first visit to California, has already declared The Ocean Course the best golf course he’s ever played. I smirk, knowing we haven’t even reached the Pacific yet.

If Hollywood needs B-roll footage for an upcoming Scottish film, The Ocean Course’s 16th tee box would make for an apt stateside stand-in. Adjacent to the Coastal Trail, it offers a look I’ve yet to see on a U.S. golf course. It’s also the best shot of The Ritz-Carlton, which glistens like a shingled Hogwarts one hundred feet above Half Moon Bay. Jeff’s in awe, so I snap a couple of action photos of him to text his girlfriend.

As we tee off on the 17th hole, a blufftop par-3 likened by some to Pebble Beach’s famed 7th, Jeff’s amazement graduates to disbelief when, moments before he tees off, I spot a breaching whale in the choppy whitecaps nearly a mile out to sea. “I’ve definitely never had a whale in my backswing, I can tell you that,” he says.

The 18th hole of the Ocean Course at The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay resort in California.
The curvy 18th hole beckons golfers to return to the resort and begin the fun all over again. The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay

Me? I have Horace the World-Class Waiter on my mind, whose windy afternoon forecast was more than spot-on. From 147-yards out and with gusts exceeding 30 mph, I jump on a 9-iron and miss the green short, before managing to save par. I should’ve trusted it was a two-club wind.

Heading for the uphill 18th hole, the sun is waning, and I’m giddy with Scottish vibes; Jeff, he’s bypassed cloud nine. Like the two holes before it, the monstrous finishing hole has a swirling upwind. On this links-style layout, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Removing our hats to shake hands, a vague sound emerges from afar. Jeff looks my way.

“The bagpipes are coming,” I say.

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The Island and Coastal Resorts Offering the Best Mother’s Day Deals https://www.islands.com/resorts/mothers-day-deals-caribbean-california-florida/ Tue, 18 Apr 2023 17:55:12 +0000 https://www.islands.com/?p=46821 For solo relaxation, a couple’s escape, or a celebration with the entire family, these are the best Mother’s Day deals at island and coastal resorts.

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An aerial view of the Anse Chastanet resort on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia.
A trip to one of St. Lucia’s most popular resorts is always a nice gift. Anse Chastanet

If you’re a mom you likely already have Sunday, May 14, 2023, circled on your calendar—and it’s not too late to plan to enjoy a coastal brunch, quick beachside escape, or even a splurge-worthy getaway to the Caribbean or Hawaii. We’ve found options that focus on pampering for Mom and family fun for everyone, so get ready to relax, unwind, and celebrate with one of these 16 Mother’s Day deals at some of our favorite island and coastal resorts.

Fifth Night Free

The Place: Anse Chastanet, St. Lucia

Is a back-to-nature escape what you need this Mother’s Day? Anse Chastanet, an architectural delight offering a retreat in the heart of lush St. Lucia, has just 50 rooms, all scattered throughout the verdant hillside and palm-tree lined beachfront and featuring open-air fourth walls that make guests feel connected with land and sea. You can relax in hammocks, lounge beds, private beach huts, and beachside restaurants and enjoy a variety of activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving and sunset sailing. 

The 600-acre estate that Anse Chastanet occupies is also home to an extraordinary farm and a tasty chocolate lab, where you can take truffle-making classes. Enjoy a fifth night free of charge if you book four or more nights in a Hillside Deluxe or Premium Suite (rates start at $990/night with the promo). 

One Happy Mother’s Day

The Place: The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba

An aerial exterior view of the pool and beach at the Ritz-Carlton Aruba resort in the Caribbean.
One Happy Island’s popular resort will always make one happy guest. The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba

Located on Aruba’s spectacular Palm Beach, The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba offers a Mother’s Day escape blending natural beauty with luxury amenities. The resort’s 320 guestrooms and suites all have private balconies with sweeping sea views and newly refreshed decor that blends the island’s relaxed aesthetic with Ritz-Carlton’s renowned luxury. 

The Ritz-Carlton Spa is offering a “Mom and Me” experience—a 25-minute facial and 50-minute massage for mothers to enjoy with a guest of their choosing—and a “Mom Escape,” a personalized 50-minute custom facial. Guests can also enjoy a Mother’s Day Brunch and endless mimosas at BLT Steak, a specially curated blackboard menu of delectable offerings at BLT Steak for dinner, or the Ti Amo Mamma menu at Casa Nonna. 

A Mother’s Day Bingo event is also planned at The Casino and moms will enjoy a 15 percent discount at The Boutique and Sun Boutique. With the Stay Longer, Experience More offer, book four nights or more and save 25 percent (rates start at $583/night with the promo). 

One Suite Deal

The Place: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, Maui, Hawaii

To splurge on an amazing experience for the entire family, consider this “suite” offer by the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa. Located on legendary Ka’anapali Beach, the property delivers the quintessential Hawaiian experience through an award-winning luau and dining, expert-led stargazing, wildlife tours, and cultural classes—and this Mother’s Day, it has an offer with every extra imaginable: 

  • Three nights in Presidential Suite or the Palace Suite (accommodating four or six guests, respectively)
  • Pampering at Kamaha’o, a Marilyn Monroe Spa, which includes a massage, facial, and pedicure Mother’s Day breakfast at Swan Court
  • VIP table at award-winning Drums of the Pacific Luau tickets to Tour of the Stars
  • A family photoshoot throughout the property by Grins 2 Go
  • A private social media mermaid class
  • A full-day Ohana Tent rental
  • Private penguin feeding and wildlife tour
  • Private family virtual golf and games in Hyatt Golf Studio by Yo! Maui hosted by resident PGA golf professional Sutee Nitakorn
  • Access to Regency Club 

Prices for this offer begin at $23,000. Call (808) 667-4932 for reservations.

Mother’s Day Brunch

An aerial drone’s eye view of the infinity pool at The Condado Vanderbilt resort in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
This luxurious resort is packed with places for guests to kick back and relax. The Condado Vanderbilt

The Place: The Condado Vanderbilt, San Juan, Puerto Rico

It’s easy to jet off to San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a long weekend of sun and fun, and the perfect spot to celebrate amid elegant surroundings is the Condado Vanderbilt. Opened in 1919, the legendary hotel retains the opulence and grandeur of that bygone era at every turn—captivating architecture, grand pianos, a cozy cocktail bar, speakeasy-style cigar lounge, and postcard-worthy pool areas overlooking the sea—and its 317 rooms and suites are ideal for both couples and families. 

Get 10 percent off (with rates starting at $377/night) when you book three or more nights and be sure to reserve the spectacular Mother’s Day Brunch at the hotel’s award-winning 1919 restaurant.

Mom’s Getaway 

The Place: Andaz San Diego

Looking to have it all—a suite that epitomizes California cool, a candlelit rooftop dinner, a romantic turn down, a sunset cruise, and a private photo shoot? You can at Andaz San Diego, located in the city’s lively Gaslamp Quarter. 

Splurge on the “Mom’s Getaway” offer to enjoy a one-night stay in the 1,275-square-foot Andaz Star Suite, champagne and your favorite candy/snacks upon arrival, a rose-petal turn down, a wine-paired dinner at The Rooftop by STK, two complimentary poolside cocktails, a $100 spa certificate to Saffron + Sage, a private sunset boat charter with car service to and from the hotel, and a photo shoot on property and throughout the beautiful beachside city of San Diego. 

The offer starts at $7,499 for a one-night stay with a $2,000 charge for each additional night. Contact the hotel at (619) 849-1234 directly to book.

Family Beach Escape 

An aerial view of Henderson Beach Resort in Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
A favorite property for family getaways, this is also a great choice for a parent escape. Henderson Beach Resort

The Place: Henderson Beach Resort, Destin-Fort Walton Beach, FL

Looking for a convenient escape with your kids for Mother’s Day? A peaceful yet fun getaway awaits at Henderson Beach Resort in Destin-Fort Walton Beach, FL, where the entire family can enjoy access to the picturesque private beach, a lazy river, and an array of services. While you relax, young ones can grab lunch and then participate in crafts and themed activities at Poppy’s Kids Club. 

For some alone time, book a rejuvenating treatment at The Henderson Spa and experience the Himalayan salt suite overlooking lush Henderson Beach State Park. With the Good Day Sunshine offer, book a minimum 3-night stay and save up to 20 percent off your rate (starting at $339/night with the promo), and get a $100 food and beverage credit per stay. 

Buy 4, Stay 5 

The Place: Quintessence Hotel, Anguilla

Perched above the pristine coast of Long Bay on Anguilla, Quintessence Hotel offers a private, villa-like ambience with all the amenities of a world-class resort. The exclusive, nine-suite property is affectionately nicknamed “The Tropical Grand Mansion” and features a captivating avant-garde design and beautiful Haitian artwork throughout its interiors. 

Guests enjoy a first-class selection of amenities and activities, including an exceptional spa, 24-hour butler service, and French-Caribbean gourmet fine dining—all complemented by jaw-dropping ocean views and private beach access. This May for a Mother’s Day getaway, you can book Quintessence’s limited time “Buy 4 Stay 5” package with rates starting at $650/night. Call 800-234-7468 to book the offer.

Summer Nights

An aerial view of The Club in Barbados, part of Elite Islands Resorts.
When seclusion is at the top of mom’s list, The Club in Barbados is the place to be. Elite Island Resorts

The Place: Elite Island Resorts on Antigua and Barbados

Mother’s Day 2023 falls into the date range for Elite Island Resorts’ “Summer Nights” offer, featuring a first night free on a minimum three-night stay. Order a piña colada, put on a tropical sundress, and indulge in the ultimate resort getaway at three of the company’s beachfront all-inclusive properties in Antigua, including Pineapple Beach Club, St. James’s Club & Villas and The Verandah Resort & Spa, as well as The Club in Barbados. All-inclusive rates vary by resort. To reserve call (800) 858-4618.

A Boozy Brunch

The Place: The National Hotel in South Beach, Miami

To literally forget all your real-life cares and worries, spend Mother’s Day enjoying a boozy brunch at Mareva 1939 at The National Hotel. From 11 am to 3 pm, guests will take in stunning views of the iconic Art Deco property as they enjoy a brunch menu ($75/person) that includes dynamic favorites such as huevos rotos and lobster and seafood paella for two made with scallops, mussels, shrimp, and clams—plus have the option of making their brunch cocktails bottomless, including mimosas and Bloody Marys, for just $35. Rates start at $308/night. Reservations for brunch can be made via OpenTable

An All-Inclusive Wellness Retreat

The silhouette of a woman practicing yoga at the Carlisle Bay resort on the Caribbean island of Antigua.
Wellness is at the top of many travel wish lists and this resort offers some great experiences. Carlisle Bay

The Place: Carlisle Bay, Antigua 

Book it yourself or ask for it as a gift, because Carlisle Bay’s three-night all-inclusive Wellness Retreat from May 19-22, 2023, is equal parts relaxation and fitness motivator. Participants will enjoy daily mindful meditation, gentle yoga classes to suit all levels and abilities, and daily activities, including reef snorkeling at Cades Bay, guided rainforest hike to Signal Hill, and a local cooking demonstration. 

This all-inclusive package (from $2,850 per room/double occupancy for three nights or from $1,884 per room/single occupancy for three nights) is designed to bring a sense of well-being via a holistic wellness experience. 

Relaxation and Rejuvenation

The Place: Round Hill Hotel and Villas, Jamaica

If a spa-centric respite in Jamaica sounds like the perfect way to relax over Mother’s Day weekend, Round Hill Hotel and Villas , a historic resort set on a 110-acre peninsula in Montego Bay, is offering specially curated spa packages for mom at The Round Hill Spa. The limited time spa menu, available from May 12-14, 2023, offers the All About You! treatment, which is a personalized massage, facial and foot treatment; the Mama Mia! treatment, featuring a Frangipani body polish, custom massage, and hand and foot treatment; and the To Mom, With Love! treatment, which includes a signature coconut rub and milk ritual wrap, custom massage, and exotic hand ritual and custom manicure. 

Round Hill’s culinary team has also curated a special prix fixe menu for an unforgettable Mother’s Day Brunch with holiday themed cocktails and dishes. With Round Hill’s Summer Reconnect offer, your 4th night is free and rates start at $571/night for a 4-night stay.

A Mindful Getaway

An aerial view of the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort in Miami, Florida.
Leave the passports at home and head to this exceptional South Florida property. Carillon Miami Wellness Resort

The Place: Carillon Miami Wellness Resort, Miami, FL

Get several girlfriends to convince their spouses to watch the kids for a few days and head together to the largest spa on the Eastern seaboard (it’s 70,000 square feet) at Carillon Miami Wellness Resort. There, you can enjoy an impressive array of retreat programs, specialized circuits and cutting-edge therapies designed to make you feel rejuvenated inside and out. 

Moms seeking some intense R and R can also partake in a Sleep Well Circuit to achieve the ultimate night’s sleep. With the resort’s 4th Night Free offer, book three nights and get an extra night on a complimentary basis (from $477/night with the offer). 

More is Less

An aerial view of the pool and property at Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa in the Cayman Islands.
The world-famous stretch of beach is reason enough to celebrate. Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach

The Place: The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa

If a white-sand beach and aquamarine water just steps from a newly renovated pool (the largest on the island) is your idea of heaven, The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa is the ideal spot for a classic Caribbean escape this Mother’s Day. 

Occupying the most expansive stretch of world-famous Seven Mile Beach, the resort features 343 rooms, a spa, and an array of on-site watersports such as paddleboarding, parasailing, and jet-skiing. Dining-wise, you can indulge at seven restaurants, including Woto, a new sushi, ceviche and poke restaurant, and Beach House for fresh seafood and small-plate specialties. Stay at least four nights with the “More is Less” promotional offer and rates start at $656/night.

A Foodie Indulgence

The Place: Calabash, Grenada

If your top indulgence is enjoying culinary experiences, Grenada’s Calabash resort might be the perfect Mother’s Day couple’s escape for you and your spouse. This five-star Relais & Chateaux boutique hotel is nestled seaside and is home to the elegant fine-dining Rhodes Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy the freshest local ingredients in Caribbean specialties created with European flair. 

Let your taste buds savor the fresh catch of the day and sophisticated, creative dishes that showcase Grenada’s legendary spices. And with Calabash’s Upgraded Meal Plan Offers, stay at least four nights and receive a complimentary upgrade from Bed and Breakfast to Half Board (from $696/night) or from Half Board to All-Inclusive (from $845/ night).

Make My Stay

The beach at the Caribe Hilton resort in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
A San Juan adventure is always best when it ends on this beautiful stretch of sand. Caribe Hilton

The Place: Caribe Hilton, San Juan, Puerto Rico

If you only have time for a quick Caribbean getaway, what’s more convenient than Puerto Rico? With the “Make My Stay” offer at the iconic Caribe Hilton, stay three nights and get a resort credit of $150 for use at the spa or restaurants. The resort features a secluded beach, ocean-front swimming pools, beachside hammocks, and a relaxing Zen Spa. You can also reserve a table for the property’s annual Mother’s Day brunch to indulge in a delectable spread. 

Old San Juan is a quick taxi ride away and you can enjoy local food and rum tours and other activities that showcase the island’s rich culture. PS: Don’t leave without trying the classic Piña Colada— it was invented at the Caribe Hilton! Rates start at $483/night. 

Stay Longer and Save More

The Place: Southernmost Beach Resort, Key West, FL 

Dreaming of kicking back in Key West? Southernmost Beach Resort, situated along the quieter southern limit of famed Duval Street where ocean views abound, mixes sleek modern design with classic coastal charm. It’s a quick walk to all the fun happenings in Old Town Key West when you’re not lounging by three palm-fringed pools, getting pampered in the full-service spa, or enjoying a private beach with lounge chairs and cabanas along with a signature restaurant and three bars. 
This Mother’s Day, the resort will also host two special three-course brunches with decadent island-infused cuisine. With Stay More, Save More, book a five-night stay and get the fifth night free (rates start at $594/night for the five nights) along with a $100 food and beverage credit.

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20 Romantic Valentine’s Day Deals and Ideas for Island Lovers https://www.islands.com/resorts/caribbean-hawaii-florida-valentines-day-deals/ Fri, 27 Jan 2023 18:43:35 +0000 https://www.islands.com/?p=46305 Whether you escape now or book a getaway for a later date, these intimate and secluded properties offer a formula for relaxation and romance.

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An aerial view of Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort on Eagle Beach in Aruba.
The views from Aruba’s Eagle Beach are already romantic, but they’re even better with a great deal. Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort

If a last-minute romantic escape sounds like a win-win way to sweep your significant other off his or her feet this Valentine’s Day, there are plenty of options just a short flight away in the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Florida, and California. 

Here are 20 deals and ideas for a February getaway (or one at a later date as a surprise gift on Feb. 14). All offer a relaxing beach vibe, romantic dining, and dreamy suites designed for two.

Caribbean and Mexico

There’s plenty to love about these tropical hotels and resorts, especially when it comes to the deals.

Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, Aruba

Plan ahead and surprise your Valentine with an escape later this year to Aruba’s Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort. Located steps from blissful Eagle Beach, the property features Dutch-colonial architecture with 72 studios and suites that are just completing a major renovation. Be among the first to experience the refreshed Honeymoon Suites or One-Bedroom Suites, both offering ocean views, fully equipped kitchenettes, spacious living and dining areas, and a bedroom with a king bed and connecting grand bathroom. 

Amsterdam Manor’s romance package includes 20 percent off a three-night stay, with breakfast and mimosas in bed on your first morning and late check-out (2 p.m.). Book between Feb. 6-17, 2023, for travel dates in May-June and September-October 2023.

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

This popular property on beautiful Palm Beach provides guests with versatility, as it is ideal for workaholics, adventurous explorers, and, of course, hopeless romantics. The “You, Me and Aruba” experience will delight that last group, as couples staying at least four consecutive nights will get all the perks of a Deluxe Ocean View room in the adults-only Tradewinds Club, which boasts a private floor and lounge, access to the H2Oasis adults-only pool, exclusive amenities, personal concierge, complimentary daily food and beverages, and reserved beach seating. Use code HON when booking.

Resorts World Bimini, Bimini, Bahamas

Escape to Resorts World Bimini, an oceanfront complex that encompasses a chic Hilton hotel, world-class casino, marina and a private beach, with a Valentine’s Day package starting at $549 per person that includes roundtrip transportation from Ft. Lauderdale, two or three nights accommodations, and champagne and strawberries upon arrival to help set the mood for the weekend. 

Lighthouse Pointe at Grand Lucayan, Grand Bahama Island

Lighthouse Pointe, the all-inclusive enclave within Grand Lucayan resort on Grand Bahama Island, is a close-by island escape for couples featuring stylish accommodations along with access to four new restaurants and multiple pools and it’s bookable at 50 percent off current rates during the Valentine’s Flash Sale. 

Book between Jan. 16 and March 14, 2023, for travel between Feb. 1 and March 14, 2023. Rates for Island View rooms start at $89 per night based on double occupancy; complimentary upgrade to Marina View based on availability; taxes and fees are extra.

Belizean Dreams Resort, Belize 

Experience casual elegance at Belizean Dreams Resort, an intimate, locally owned and managed all-inclusive resort nestled on the coast of Hopkins Village in southern Belize that features a beachfront pool and tiki bar and access to customized adventure tours. Couples can receive $50 off per night on an all-inclusive stay when they book a Mayan Jungle and Beach, Just Chillin, or Honeymoon/Romance package. Book here by Jan. 30 for travel dates through Dec. 18, 2023.

Laru Beya Resort, Belize

Tucked away on the lush Placencia Peninsula in southern Belize, Laru Beya Resort is an all-inclusive boutique resort and the perfect place to both do it all or do nothing at all—laze by the infinity pool, challenge each other at stand-up paddle boarding, or indulge in an in-room massage. Choose the all-inclusive package this winter and get $50 off per night (code WEBWINTER) and book here by Feb. 1 for travel dates through May 30, 2023.

Sapphire Beach Resort, Ambergris Caye, Belize 

Looking to unplug and unwind? At Sapphire Beach Resort, a serene, untouched Eden on Ambergris Caye in Belize, the rush of time slows. With its secluded ambience and pristine surroundings, the retreat-like property offers personalized service and modern indulgences such as a couple’s massage and chocolate-making class. Get up to 45 percent off your stay by clicking here to book through March 31 with no blackout dates. 

JW Marriott Cancun

The home of the legendary lobby bar with 150 creative and wild margaritas is also a fantastic place for romance. In addition to wonderful views of and access to the stunning beach and ocean, the “Winter Getaway for Two” is all about perks, as it includes a complimentary 80-minute Hunah Ku massage at the luxurious Sens Yah Spa—and a special price on an additional massage—as well as a $100 USD daily resort credit for stays of 5 or more nights. Use code Z85 when booking.

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa, Mexico

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, nestled on a sandy strip between the Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay, offers exciting ways to indulge: a tequila tasting led by resident tequila sommelier Audrey Formisano, a tandem kayak paddle, and lazy hours overlooking Banderas Bay in Puerto Vallarta’s largest infinity pool. 

Book the Couples Getaway package (promo code LVU) to enjoy deluxe room accommodations and daily breakfast, chocolate-covered seasonal fruits and a bottle of sparkling wine upon arrival, a private four-course candlelight dinner for two, and an intimate couples Swedish massage. 

La Valise Tulum, Tulum, Mexico

La Valise Tulum, a chic and accessible hideaway in one of Mexico’s trendiest destinations, offers an intimate, back-to-nature escape perfect for couples. The property features 11 Beachfront suites and 11 brand-new Jungle Suites—some with king beds that can be rolled onto private balconies for al fresco nights under the stars—along with a private beach, a spa and Nü restaurant, which partners with an organic farm in the Yucatan that preserves ancient Mayan farming techniques. 

Guests can also take a dip in Vesica, a private “social sanctuary” cenote featuring plush daybeds and a DJ spinning beats to the sounds of the surrounding tropical wildlife. Rates start at $374/night for select dates through May 2023.

Grand Residences Riviera Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Mexico

Grand Residences Riviera Cancun, a secluded coastal resort located 30 minutes south of Cancun, is a convenient spot for a serene beachfront escape. Indulge in a tranquil couple’s massage, head out on a guided bike tour and toast your love during a romantic candlelit dinner at the beach. 

This Valentine’s Day, book the all-inclusive promotion and receive 20 percent off, plus roundtrip airport transfers, welcome drinks, and amenities. Book by Feb. 7 for travel between Feb. 2 and Dec. 28, 2023.

Condado Ocean Club, San Juan, Puerto Rico

Condado Ocean Club, an adults-only boutique resort in San Juan’s lively Condado neighborhood, offers two types of escape: a quieter vibe mid-week around the chic, cabana-lined infinity pool overlooking vivid blue surf and a DJ-fueled day-to-night party vibe from Friday through Sunday. 

Whether you like your couple’s escape mellow or social, book the Couples Goals package to get a welcome bottle of bubbles and chocolates, and a $75 credit for dinner at the resort’s SOCIAL restaurant (with a bottle of house wine). Book here (Code: LOVE) and a two-night minimum stay is required.

Golden Rock Dive and Nature Resort, St. Eustatius 

Thinking outside the box this Valentine’s Day? Why not head to the under-the-radar island of St. Eustatius where the new Golden Rock Dive and Nature Resort can take you off the grid in an upscale and indulgent fashion. The property, dramatically set against the island’s photogenic Quill volcano, features 75 spacious and contemporary rooms, suites, and villas—all with ocean views—along with 40 acres of gardens. 

A Special Valentine’s Day package includes three nights in one of the 650-square-foot Villa Suites, private charter flights from and back to St. Maarten, a room full of roses, romantic star-gazing, a private guided hike and meditation, a private full day of diving aboard owner Peter Barnhoorn’s private boat with a certified instructor, private cocktails in the garden, and a private jewelry-making class. Price: $7,500 for three nights. Email reservations@goldenrockresort.com to book.

Park Hyatt St. Kitts, St. Kitts

If the luxurious Park Hyatt St. Kitts has been on your list of dream Caribbean getaway spots, perhaps you’ll want to splurge on the Romance at The Park Package at this resort featuring airy contemporary design in 124 rooms and suites, an infinity pool with views of neighboring Nevis, a Sugar Mill Spa, and three restaurants, including the adults-only Stone Barn offering a hearth-cooked tasting menu. 

Book now using code 10OFF through Feb. 18 for a stay Feb. 4-18, 2023, and you’ll get 10 percent off plus a special Valentine’s amenity.

The Landings Resort and Spa, St. Lucia

Love chocolate—or in love with someone who does? Throughout February, The Landings Resort and Spa on St. Lucia is offering a Valentine’s package featuring an array of chocolate experiences, from a chocolate tour excursion to a cocoa spa ritual. The resort sits on 19 acres along the Pigeon Point Causeway at the northern edge of Rodney Bay and offers all-villa accommodations with private plunge pools. 

The package includes: private helicopter transfer to and from Hewanorra Airport, Chocolate Caribbean Woopie Spa Ritual for two, a chocolate tour, in-villa Chocolate Charcuterie Board, daily Chocolate Cocktails for two, and butler service.

Book here using promo code VALENTINE; the package is available throughout February and requires a 5-night minimum stay.

The Islands of Hawaii

A view of the pool at Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and Spa in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Waikiki is great for any occasion, but the romance is off the charts. Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and Spa

Expired passports? No problem. Head to the Aloha State for a romantic tropical escape.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, Maui

Ready to splurge on a romantic Maui getaway? The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa has packaged a sky-high celebration of love available throughout February with a Valentine’s Day Offer which includes: a three-night stay in the Presidential Suite with beautiful panoramic ocean views; a romantic welcome amenity; a decorated suite for Valentine’s Day; a romantic dinner for two at Japengo; tickets to the award-winning Drums of the Pacific Luau; a private lei-making lesson; a Tour of the Stars experience and mixology class; a couples massage at Kamaha’o, a Marilyn Monroe Spa; exclusive access to a private cabana for two during the entire stay; and luxury car transport to/from airport. 

Pricing for this exclusive three-night holiday offer starts at $17,000. To book, call 808-667-4932.

Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and Spa, Honolulu

In honor of Queen Lili’uokalani—whose historic summer home once resided on the resort’s 5.2-acre property—Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, which underwent a multimillion-dollar reimagination is 2021, is offering an indulgent Crown Suite Package inspired by Hawaii’s last reigning monarch that invites guests to treat their significant other like royalty. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, the package includes: Pua Kalaunu (“crown flower”—the Queen’s favorite florals) leis at check-in; accommodations for two in a Crown Suite, the resort’s newly renovated luxury suites; a private docent tour of the landmark Iolani Palace with round-trip transportation; daily cabana reservations at the resort’s new Queensbreak pool deck; and two signature cocktails. 

Package rates start at $2,160/night with a two-night minimum and is valid for stays through Dec. 31, 2023.

California and Florida 

The view from the rooftop pool at Andaz San Diego in California.
This rooftop pool is a romantic spot any time of year, so don’t worry if it’s completely booked on Valentine’s Day. Andaz San Diego

For easy-access romance, consider the Golden and Sunshine states.

Andaz San Diego, San Diego

Located in the heart of the city’s historic Gaslamp District, Andaz San Diego offers chic places to chill—the hotel’s rooftop pool or a nearby beach—before enjoying the neighborhood’s bustling nightlife. This Valentine’s Day, the hotel is offering “Valentine’s Day at Andaz San Diego,” which includes two nights in an Andaz Suite; a welcome amenity of a polaroid camera and flowers, two reserved poolside loungers and two complimentary cocktails; a $100 F&B credit for The Rooftop by STK; and a $100 gift card to Saffron + Sage spa for a relaxing treatment. 

Rates start at $899 for a one-night stay or $1,200 for two-night stay (subject to availability). To book, call 619-849-1234. 

The Boca Raton, Boca Raton, Florida

While the Have It All package at the recently reimagined The Boca Raton is already sold out for Valentine’s Day and the days surrounding it, the package is valid through April 30, 2023, and includes a generous $500 resort credit that can be used at one of property’s 11 restaurants or at the 50,000-sq. ft. Spa Palmera. A two-night minimum stay in any of the resort’s five Beachside or Harborside hotels is required and rates start at $595/night.

Southernmost Beach Resort, Key West

For some quality time together in a place that feels far away from the everyday, check out the Rest, Romance, Repeat package at Southernmost Beach Resort in Key West, a recently renovated property tucked into historic Old Town overlooking the ocean but offering easy access to the dining and nightlife along legendary Duval Street. The package includes overnight accommodations, a bottle of sparkling wine, and a $150 credit for use at the resort’s Petit Spa. 

Package rates in February start at $700/night. Or with the Stay More, Save More package, get savings of 15 percent for a three-night stay or 20 percent for a five-night stay, bringing February rates down to about $600/night.

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Some Like It Hot on Coronado Island, the Crowning Jewel of America’s Finest City https://www.islands.com/resorts/some-like-it-hot-on-coronado-island-the-crowning-jewel-of-americas-finest-city/ Wed, 30 Nov 2022 18:25:35 +0000 https://www.islands.com/?p=43554 Salty air, California cuisine, boutique shopping, and laid-back vibes are just across the bay from San Diego but feel worlds away.

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hotel del coronado
At the heart of the Coronado Island experience is the legendary Hotel del Coronado, which has provided an adventurous, exciting, and romantic atmosphere for well over a century. San Diego Tourism Authority

Flying into San Diego at sunset, I realize where its cheesy nickname, “America’s Finest City,” originated. Even after visiting this Southern California beauty numerous times, it never gets old taking in the views of the skyline against the sparkling San Diego Bay. Almost as spectacular as the scenery is the airport, which lies mere minutes from downtown—a planning feat I wish every U.S. city had adopted decades ago. 

As I grab a taxi (much quicker than an Uber) and head to my hotel, Pendry San Diego, the landscape shifts from oceanfront to urban. My seventh-floor room, in this chic, 317-room property that still manages to feel boutique, overlooks a bustling nightlife scene in the Gaslamp Quarter below. I can’t catch a glimpse of the water from my window, yet I know it’s there, the last sliver of sunlight glinting off the bay in the distance. 

Tomorrow, I’ll be island bound, exploring the 33-square-mile Coronado Island across the bay that’s been a mecca for sophisticated travelers for decades. 

The History of Coronado Island

helicopter
In addition to being an idyllic vacation destination, Coronado Island also has a deep history with aviation and the U.S. Navy. San Diego Tourism Authority

In 1885, two visionary businessmen, Elisha Babcock and Hampton Story, purchased a section of land spanning Coronado (which means “crowned” in Spanish), North Island, and Silver Strand adjacent San Diego for $110,000. Their plan: to construct the finest hotel on the Pacific coast, which would live within a master-planned community along the beach. Lot sales began a year later, going for $500 to $1,600 each, which helped to fund the hotel (today, the median home price in Coronado is $2.4 million). 

Hotel del Coronado opened in January 1888 as the largest resort in the world. Around 1900, a community of tents for those who couldn’t afford the opulence of the hotel cropped up south of the property, which would draw some 10,000 people by 1914 to what became known as Tent City. During this time, the island was also becoming an aviation hub; North Island Naval Air Station was commissioned in 1917. (Today, the greater Naval Base Coronado is a consortium of eight Navy installations—so don’t be surprised to see helicopters and flying overhead.) Coronado’s appeal only continued to grow throughout the Golden Age of Hollywood, especially following Marilyn Monroe’s 1959 film, Some Like It Hot, which was filmed at its most famous property.

Coronado Island is now its own resort city within San Diego County and has a population of about 23,700, according to the U.S. Census. Its shining star, Hotel del Coronado, retains all its grandeur as one of the oldest continually operating hotels in the country. It’s more than halfway through a multi-phase, $400 million transformation (to be completed in late 2022) focused on restoration and modernization to help the hotel retain its reputation as a hot spot for visitors and celebrities alike.

Getting There and Getting Around

Hotel del Coronado
Getting here is also the fun part, as the Flagship Ferry will offer amazing views for all travelers, while drivers will, of course, have to focus on the road. Hotel del Coronado

From downtown San Diego, the easiest and most stylish way to arrive in Coronado is via boat. The Flagship Ferry departs from two different spots downtown: San Diego Convention Center every 30 minutes and Broadway Pier on the hour, for $7 per person each way. It’s best to purchase your tickets online ahead of time (show them on your phone), but you can also use a kiosk at the departure docks for paper tickets. The ride takes less than 15 minutes but provides arresting views of the San Diego skyline. Choose your perch wisely: lower deck for shade (nice when the weather’s hot) or upper deck for the best vantage point for photos (and to soak up the sun on cooler days). 

Once you arrive on the island, you can stroll to many of the main shopping areas if you’re wearing good walking shoes. If you’re traveling to Coronado Beach or Hotel de Coronado, though, hail a taxi or call an Uber to take you across the island, as both are a good 30-minute walk from the ferry landing.

If you’re driving to Coronado, all except the driver can enjoy the views of beach and city from the soaring Coronado Bridge, a 2-mile-long passageway on Highway 75 that jumpstarts the thrill of the island. A vintage toll booth will greet you as you arrive landside, but you can glide on through, as actual tolls here are a thing of the past. Drive mindfully around Coronado, where the speed limit is 25 miles per hour and golf carts sometimes share the road with cars. The island has a variety of free and reasonably priced parking options; however, be sure to fuel up before you go: gas was nearly $5.50 a gallon during my visit in September.

Feeling athletic? You can also reach Coronado Island via the Silver Strand bike path, a 10-mile ride that stretches between Coronado and Imperial Beach in South San Diego.

What to Do on Coronado Island

Hotel del Coronado overhead
Hotel del Coronado

Your first stop on Coronado Island should be Hotel del Coronado—although, once you set foot on the immaculate grounds, I wouldn’t blame you if you didn’t want to leave. Despite being 133 years old, the Del (as it’s known locally) is looking better than ever thanks to masterful recent efforts to preserve its history and modernize its offerings. Even if you’re not a guest of the hotel, you can still enjoy its restaurants and boutiques. 

When I visited, I made a beeline for the Sun Deck, a prime spot for people-watching and ocean gazing in the afternoons or at sunset. One of several dining options at the Del that’s been redesigned in the past year, it offers front-row seating to the Pacific Ocean (including some around cozy firepits), delectable food (try the California mezze plate with whipped goat cheese, lemon hummus, spinach falafel, and local organic vegetables) and refreshing signature cocktails, beer and wine. The giant s’mores cookie dessert is tempting, but for something a bit lighter, pop into Sundaes for a paleta. You can customize these popsicle treats with your own toppings (think mango with Tajin seasoning and chamoy sauce).

Shops at The Del are open to all, and it’s a delight to peruse the curated selections of beach-chic attire and decor that line the lower level beneath the main hotel. They’re bright and fresh, newly revamped as part of the transformation, and a contrast to the dark woods above in the lobby. You can pick up stylish pieces like artful Slowtide beach towels, luxe pool floats and fringed umbrellas (a nod to old Hollywood glamour) from shops like Weekends and Beachouse before hitting the sand just steps from the hotel, or stock up on summery tableware and deliciously scented candles to take home. 

hotel del Coronado porch
The property may boast renovated looks and new features, but some of it still offers the classic vibes that have kept guests coming back for decades. Hotel del Coronado

Carve out downtime to relax in rocking chairs on the hotel’s front porch, which was prominently featured in Some Like It Hot, later lost, and now brand new again. In August, the Del revealed a restoration of its original porch veranda complete with the traditional Haint blue ceiling and Queen Calafia stained glass windows. Inside, the lobby has been brought back to life, with its intricate woodwork re-stained to its original color, a new hand-blown glass chandelier installed, and the birdcage elevator upgraded to modern standards. A round Kelly-green seating area in the center is a focal point, as is the hand-painted silk wallpaper surrounding the front desk. The lobby’s not without a few contemporary touches, however, such as a refreshing new signature scent. 

If you are visiting in the off-season, the Del offers resort day passes (typically Labor Day through early June) that grant you access to the pool (newly renovated with 12 luxury cabanas), Marilyn Monroe-inspired spa and newly expanded fitness center. For a small fee, you can even take a spin class on the beach. 

Shop and Eat on Orange Avenue

A 10-minute walk from the Del is Orange Avenue, the charming main shopping district in Coronado. With dozens of quaint restaurants and one-of-a-kind shops, it’s easy to fill an entire afternoon here. A few favorites I discovered on my visit were Seaside Papery, perfect for unique gifts and cute notebooks; Française, a beautifully curated collection of Parisian home goods; The Henry, with delectable pastries and coffee; and Little Frenchie, an excellent bistro for happy hour with Champagne and cheese.

Ogle Dream Homes

Coronado Island is filled with high-end homes and cottages, many with beautiful gardens and Victorian details that will have you wanting to check out listings. Even if you’re not ready to fork over a few million dollars for a small house, it’s great fun to walk the residential streets and pick out your favorites, imagining what it would be like to reside on Coronado.

Beach It

Hotel del Coronado
There’s arguably no better way to enjoy the beach here and in one of Hotel del Coronado’s Beach Village cottages. Hotel del Coronado

You’d be remiss to visit Coronado Island and not stick your toes in the sand. Pack a beach bag with your swimsuit and head to Coronado Beach, which spans for almost two miles. And no, it’s not your eyes playing tricks: the sand here really does sparkle, thanks to its mineral mica content. You don’t have to be a Hollywood star to see that this island is truly golden. If you’re up for adventure, the waves here are tame enough for beginner surfers, and you can find various options for lessons. 

Where to Stay on Coronado Island

If a day visit to the Del leaves you wanting to spend the night (or, if you’re like me, several weeks), there are plenty of accommodations options at the hotel to suit your style. Find traditional rooms in the main building; new poolside suites in The Cabanas neighborhood; and modern digs in The Views, a shiny new-build on the beach that feels more Mexican resort than historic hotel.

There’s also the more upscale, private Beach Village, which has a residential feel and has undergone a rejuvenation of its own. And in mid-2022, Shore House at the Del was introduced as an all-new collection of residential villas that serve as a resort within the resort, complete with its own pool. Other upscale hotels on the island include Loews Coronado Bay Resort and Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa.

While my visit to Coronado Island was only a day trip this time, I was grateful for the quiet ferry ride back across the bay to take in the sunset and feel the cool ocean breeze on my skin. (If you’re planning to head back to downtown San Diego in the evening, be sure to check ferry times so you’re not stuck on the island after dark.)

As I headed back to the Pendry, picking up my stride to match the energetic pace of the Gaslamp Quarter on a Thursday evening, I felt a new appreciation for the easygoing island vibes I’d just experienced. The most perfect part of a visit to San Diego, with Coronado mere minutes from downtown, is that you can experience the best of both worlds.

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12 Awesome Black Friday and Cyber Monday Travel Deals at U.S. Beach Resorts https://www.islands.com/resorts/us-beach-resorts-black-friday-deals-2022/ Mon, 21 Nov 2022 16:40:31 +0000 https://www.islands.com/?p=45864 Get ready to hit the sand in the Florida Keys, Cape Cod, Hamptons, or California in 2023.

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Hawks Cay
The Florida Keys are always calling, but it’s even louder when the best resorts have great deals. Hawks Cay Resort

Sometimes a quick beach getaway is the best fit for a busy lifestyle and we’ve found a dozen great 2022 Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals (most offering a 30 percent or higher discount) at top coastal hotels and resorts in California, Florida, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York. Some sales have started early, so get ready to surf your options and save.

Chatham Bars Inn, Cape Cod

Chatham Bars Inn
Families will love the charm and excellent amenities of this classic property. Chatham Bars Inn

Located on a spectacular beach just outside the charming Cape Cod town of Chatham, Chatham Bars Inn is ideal for a family vacation or a couple’s getaway, the latter especially in spring and fall. The original inn dates to 1914, but renovations and additions have added a range of individually decorated accommodations, 217 in total, as well as superb dining options and an indulgent spa.

The deal: Up to 40 percent off.

How to book: Click here from Nov. 28 to Dec. 3 to book a discounted stay (from $309/night) between Dec. 1, 2022, and April 30, 2023, as well as for select dates in Fall 2023; minimum stay restrictions may apply. Subject to availability. Blackout dates apply.

EHP Resort & Marina, East Hampton, NY

EHP Resort & Marina, a nine-acre property in the chic Long Island hamlet of East Hampton that revealed the first phase of a multimillion-dollar transformation last year, offers spacious suites and standalone cottages—complete with living spaces featuring cozy fireplaces and kitchenettes that feel like a home-away-from-home.

The deal: 20 percent off.

How to book: From now until Nov.  28, click here and use the code CyberEHP to get the deal valid for stays through June 21, 2023. Some blackout dates on holidays and weekends apply. Cannot be combined with any other offer. 

Hawks Cay Resort, Florida Keys 

Hawks Cay Resort, located on secluded Duck Key, offers guests the ultimate Florida Keys vacation experience with on-site amenities that include fishing excursions, dolphin encounters, snorkel trips, and more. 

The deal: 35 percent off. 

How to book: Click here through Nov. 29 and enter promo code CYBERW for a discounted 2-night minimum stay at the hotel and a 3-night minimum stay at its villas. Subject to availability; blackout dates apply.

Hotel Viking, Newport, RI

Located in Newport, RI, Hotel Viking has been welcoming guests since 1926 and is now where Gilded Age opulence meets modern luxury. From any of the 208 rooms and suites, guests can explore this coastal town’s landmark mansions, historic heart and scenic coastline and beaches.

The deal: Up to 50 percent off.

How to book: Click here from Nov. 25 to Dec. 5 to book a stay through Nov. 20, 2023; Specialty two-bedroom suites are 50 percent off, Bellevue Suites are 40 percent off, Estate, Fire, and Viking Suites are 35 percent off; and Newport and Manor rooms are 25 percent off; post-discount rates start at $209/night; advance purchase required, non-refundable, subject to availability and black-out dates apply.

Little Gem Resorts, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket

Little Gem Resorts is a family-owned and operated boutique hospitality company with three properties located in Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. On Martha’s Vineyard, Winnetu Oceanside Resort, opened in 2000 and featuring classic Vineyard design, is the only hotel at South Beach in Edgartown, while on Nantucket, The Nantucket Hotel + Resort is a 120-year-old island icon that underwent a renovation in 2012 and is Nantucket’s only year-round hotel.

The deal: 25 percent off.

How to book: Now through Nov. 28, 2022, click here and use code CYBW to book a stay from May 21 to June 8, 2023, at Winnetu Oceanside Resort (2-night minimum stay required). For the Nantucket Hotel + Resort, click here and use code CYBN to book a room or suite between March 3 and May 18, 2023 (2-night minimum stay required).

Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, FL

Margaritaville
Raise a flag and kick back at the 5 o’ Clock sand pit. Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort

If you’ve already enjoyed at stay at Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort you’ll know it’s a “no worries” tropical escape with 369 coastal-luxe rooms, eight bar and restaurant concepts, year-round live entertainment, a St. Somewhere Spa, and more. 

The deal: 30 percent off for repeat guests.

How to book: Guests who’ve stayed at the resort before can click here from Nov. 25-29, 2022 to book a minimum 2-night stay valid from Dec. 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023. Blackout dates and restrictions apply. Discounts vary by date and are based on availability. Deposit for entire stay required at the time of booking and no cancellations are allowed. Rates start at $369/night before discount. 

Naples Grand Beach Resort, FL

Set on 23 waterfront acres on Florida’s Paradise Coast adjoining a 200-acre nature preserve and mangrove estuary, Naples Grande Beach Resort features 474 guest rooms, including tower guestrooms with a private balcony offering direct views of the Gulf. Guests have access to seven on-site restaurants and bars, three heated outdoor pools, a full-service luxury spa, a golf course, an 8,000-sq. ft. fitness center, and a tennis facility with 15 courts. 

The deal: Up to 35 percent off.

How to book: Click here from Nov. 22-29 and use the code SALE to access deals for stays from Dec. 1, 2022, to Aug. 31, 2023; 2-night minimum stay required; blackout dates, and some restrictions apply.

Santa Barbara Hotels and Resorts, CA

Choose from among 16 different hotel and resort options in California’s iconic coastal enclave, Santa Barbara, long considered America’s Riviera. Accommodations range from the beachfront Mar Monte Hotel to the luxurious Montecito favorite Rosewood Miramar Beach.  

The deal: Third night free.

How to book: The deal link is here. Guests who book a 3-night stay by Dec. 3, 2022, to use before June 30, 2023, will receive their 3rd night free at participating hotels; travel windows vary by property.

Surf & Sand Resort, Laguna Beach

Surf & Sand Resort, which sits on the shores of Laguna Beach where the waves of the Pacific meet 500 feet of soft sand, offers coastal luxury along with fresh local cuisine at signature restaurant Splashes, an Aquaterra Spa, an elevated oceanfront pool, and complimentary beachfront fitness. It’s the perfect spot to catch the sunset from your private balcony and enjoy a stroll through charming Laguna Beach, just steps away.

The deal: 50 percent off the best available rate, plus a $50 daily resort credit.

How to book: Use this link with promo code CS1121. Offer is valid on new reservations made from through Dec. 5 for travel through March 31, 2023. This offer is not combinable with other offers and not valid on group bookings; subject to availability and blackout days may apply.

The Inn Spot, Hampton Bays, NY

The Inn Spot, a first-of-its-kind destination in Hampton Bays, in eastern Long Island, is a collection of newly renovated waterfront bungalows welcoming travelers to a chic and breezy setting on Shinnecock Bay just steps from Ponquogue Beach. 

Channeling the laidback spirit of coastal destinations like Santa Teresa or Puerto Escondido, the standalone accommodations encompass studios and suites with patios, kitchenettes, Brooklinen bedding and surf-inspired décor. 

The deal: 25 percent off.

How to book: Click here from now through Nov. 28 and use the code CyberINNSPOT to get the deal on all rooms for stays from April 15 to June 30, 2023; blackout days apply. 

The Opal Collection, Florida to Maine

The Opal Collection is an ensemble of 22 luxury hotels and resorts stretching from the Florida Keys to Maine, including Samoset Resort on Penobscot Bay in mid-coast Maine; Opal Sands Resort in Clearwater Beach, FL; Lido Beach Resort in Sarasota, FL; Jupiter Beach Resort in Jupiter, FL and other stunning properties.

The deal: Up to 50 percent off.

How to book: This flash sale starts at midnight on Nov. 28 and only lasts 72 hours; the deal is valid for select travel dates throughout 2023. Rates (after the discount) start at $174/night at Samoset, $209/night at Lido Beach, $219/night at Opal Grand, $252/night at Opal Key, and $264/night at Opal Sands.

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, CA

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, newly renovated rooms and suites, private access to the Monarch Bay Beach Club, an oceanview pool and hot tubs, an assortment of dining options, the Waldorf Astoria Spa, oceanfront golf and more.

The deal: Up to 40 percent off.

How to book: From now until Nov. 30, click here or call (800-722-1543) and mention “Cyber Sale” and book 2 nights or more during select dates through May 25, 2023. The Cyber Sale is subject to availability and blackout dates may apply. 

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Steve McQueen’s Old Malibu Home is Now for Sale https://www.islands.com/close-to-home/steve-mcqueens-old-malibu-home-is-now-for-sale/ Fri, 11 Nov 2022 17:24:57 +0000 https://www.islands.com/?p=45801 When it comes to bragging rights, nothing tops living like the King of Cool.

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Malibu home
It’ll be tough to resist the urge to shout to neighbors, “Steve McQueen used to live here!” Coldwell Banker

Few Hollywood legends invoke a sense of coolness quite like Steve McQueen—hence the nickname, the King of Cool. From the epic San Francisco car chase scene in Bullitt to the iconic motorcycle jump scene in The Great Escape, the actor owned the big screen with some of the best action sequences ever filmed. And even if he didn’t actually perform the infamous leap, come on, he’s Steve freaking McQueen.
Most people will never possess even a shred of McQueen’s charisma and bad boy attitude, but what they can have is his old Malibu home. Of course, it’s only old in the sense that it was once the residence of one of the biggest stars of his generation. Currently listed by Coldwell Banker, everything about this $16.995 million beachside stunner is as modern and stylish as it gets, from the subtle white-and-wood design of the living space to the serenity of each level’s terrace.

steve mcqueen malibu living space
The design invokes a strong sense of cool but also allows the beautiful views to act as living artwork. Coldwell Banker

Located in the very desirable gated community of Victoria Point, the four-bedroom, five-bathroom home boasts approximately 4,335-sq. ft. of interior space spread throughout three floors. The main level boasts an open dining room and kitchen ideal for perpetual party hosts, as the wine wall will be a major talking point before all eyes inevitably turn to the views of Broad Beach below.

spacious primary suite
The spacious primary suite features phenomenal views of Broad Beach and Point Dume. Coldwell Banker

The upper level is where the new owner will find the primary suite, and it is difficult to put a finger on the best aspect. Is it the open floorplan with the bathtub that peeks out at the water? Is it the subtle fireplace built into the white wall that you can practically hear crackling on a cool Cali night? Is it the massive glass door wall that opens wide to those spectacular views? Honestly, it’s that last one more than anything, but all of it combined is the stuff of dreams.

Malibu beach
A private staircase leads the owner and guests down to the idyllic beach. Coldwell Banker

If the new owner is a beach bum, however, the primary suite might be on the lower level, as the deck is closest to the sand. There’s also a private staircase that leads out to Broad Beach for morning jogs and evening strolls.

Malibu beach
It’ll be tempting to spend entire days on the sand, but the owner should take a vintage Porsche out for a spin every now and then. Coldwell Banker

Finally, big decisions will need to be made about which automobiles will be stored in the three-car garage. After all, the man sometimes known as Harvey Mushman is reported to have owned more than 100 motorcycles and 100 cars and trucks, including a 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso and the 1968 Ford GT40 he drove in Le Mans. It’ll be really tough to top those, but that’s something the new owner can ponder while staring out at the ocean from the best seat on the block.

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12 Thanksgiving Travel Deals for when Your Holiday Can Use a New Setting https://www.islands.com/resorts/thanksgiving-deals-2022/ Mon, 07 Nov 2022 15:53:15 +0000 https://www.islands.com/?p=45743 Leave the turkey cooking to someone else and head to one of these tropical destinations and exciting coastal cities.

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Hyatt Regency Maui
You’d have to be a real turkey to not want to spend the holiday here. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

If you’re thinking that it’s time to start a new Thanksgiving tradition—one that involves fun-in-the-sun relaxation rather than stuck-in-the-kitchen stress—perhaps a last-minute getaway to an island or coastal resort is the solution. Your options range from warm-weather states such as Florida, Hawaii, and California to nearby islands in the Caribbean and coastal Mexico—the only stress here is choosing the right deal. 

Among the enticing options for giving thanks while creating new holiday memories: an over-the-top penthouse stay in Hawaii, tempting room-rate discounts, and multi-course Thanksgiving feasts. 

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

A family of four, two couples, or four friends who are thinking big—and we mean huge—can enjoy an authentic Hawaiian Thanksgiving on Maui with plenty of Aloha-friendly perks. The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, located on Kaanapali Beach and offering access to amenities that include award-winning restaurants, expert-led stargazing, wildlife tours, cultural classes, and so much more, has come up with the ultimate Thanksgiving package.

The Offer: Four nights in either the sky-high Presidential Suite or the beachfront Palace Suite when booking a for Nov. 23-27, 2022. Also included are four VIP tickets to Drums of the Pacific Luau, oceanside dining for four people in ‘Ohana Tent with s’mores and firepit, post-Thanksgiving dinner cocktails in Speakeasy on the Lahaina Tower Rooftop with a private Tour of the Stars experience, an exclusive pass for “Black Friday at Hyatt Maui” (which includes a complimentary breakfast for four at Swan Court with Bottomless Bloody Marys and Mimosas), two daybeds (full-day complimentary rental with Happy Hour cocktail prices available all day long at ‘Umalu and Grotto Bar), a 50-minute massage for all four people, a complimentary upgrade to Regency Club, four roundtrip airport shuttle transfers, a private wildlife tour for four, and tickets for four people for a snorkeling/sailing excursion. 

The experience starts at $20,000. To book, call the resort’s Director of Marketing and Communications, Krystle Alcain, at (808) 667-4932. 

Southernmost Beach Resort, Key West

Southernmost Resort
A quick and easy getaway makes for a fun holiday. Southernmost Beach Resort

Key West is known for its combination of historic southern charm and festive ambience, and it’s easy to enjoy both while giving thanks at Southernmost Beach Resort, which features sleek contemporary design with classic coastal details, ocean views, and luxurious amenities—an ideal setting for relaxing and reconnecting. You’ll enjoy three palm-fringed pools with private cabanas, a signature restaurant, oceanfront rooms, and a beach with sunset views, along with easy access to Key West’s historic Old Town. 

The Offer: The resort’s Give Thanks in Key West package includes up to 30 percent off November stays and complimentary daily breakfast. Rates start at $439 per night.

Rancho Pescadero, Todos Santos, Mexico

Rancho Pescadero
This stylish reimagined property has already built significant buzz ahead of its opening. Kenny Viese/Rancho Pescadero

For something truly new, head to Rancho Pescadero, the 103-room luxury resort set amid botanical gardens that opens this month in Todos Santos, Mexico, located less than an hour from Los Cabos. Rancho Pescadero’s ethnobotanical culinary program invites travelers to savor flavors gathered from the earth, the ocean, and the spirit of Mexico, all while relaxing amid the beauty of nine interconnected gardens spanning 30 beachfront acres. 

The Offer: Now through Nov. 30, travelers can take advantage of 20 percent off best available rates, 15 percent off spa services, complimentary discovery activities such as Sunrise Yoga or Meditation, the Rancho Margarita/Mezcalita Class, Apothecary Workshops, and the use of bikes, surf boards, yoga, and fishing equipment. Rates start at $676 per night.

Caerula Mar Club, Bahamas

Caerula Mar Club
Feel like a star at this centerpiece of a popular HGTV series. William Torrillo/Caerula Mar Club

Seeking an unspoiled oasis to give thanks? Caerula Mar Club, the boutique resort on sleepy South Andros in the Bahamas featured on the HGTV show Renovation Island, features just five private villas and 18 luxurious suites. As a guest, you’ll enjoy three on-site dining options and a stunning stretch of beach lapped by the calm turquoise Caribbean. 

Thanksgiving dinner at the resort will be prepared by Caerula Mar’s stellar executive chef, Carlos Alvarez—and there will be a picnic basket of turkey sandwiches to enjoy for beachfront picnic lunch on Friday.

The Offer: Book a Thanksgiving stay of four nights or more to receive 10 percent off accommodations plus a $100 resort to be use on dining, drinks, or excursions. Also, Makers Air is offering 10 percent off flights from Fort Lauderdale to/from Congo Town, South Andros, exclusively for Caerula guests. 

To claim the offer at Caerula Mar, call 1(800)790-6845 or email reservations@caerulamar.com. Rates start at $535 per night. For Makers Air flights, email caerulamar@makersair.com with mention of promo code “CMGUEST” or call +1(954) 771-0330.  

Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort

Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort
Already very well known for an exceptional culinary program, it’s safe to say a holiday meal here will be exquisite. Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort

Set on six oceanfront acres near colorful Willemstad, Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort blends the best of the Dutch island’s old Amsterdam charm and sun-drenched warmth with family-friendly amenities that include a newly renovated pool, a kids club, and a concierge that can set up snorkeling, catamaran trips, aquafari experiences, swimming with dolphins, diving, and more.

The Offer: Receive a 20 percent discount on room rates for a stay of four nights (starting at $223 per night) with the resort’s Holiday Savings & Seasonal Packages.

Prince Waikiki

Prince Waikiki
A holiday at this paradise is well worth a long flight. Prince Waikiki

If the idea of hopping on a plane to celebrate Thanksgiving with a Hawaiian twist in the heart of Honolulu sounds not-so-crazy, Prince Waikiki offers a contemporary oceanfront setting overlooking a postcard-worthy marina and some of the island’s best sunset views. 

The Offer: With Prince Waikiki’s 4th Night Free offer, book three nights and the next one is complimentary (rates start at $370 per night with the deal over Thanksgiving). The resort’s 100 Sails Restaurant & Bar will serve a Thanksgiving Brunch Buffet featuring a wide variety breakfast favorites and lunch-oriented fare on Nov. 24 and a Thanksgiving Dinner menu from Nov. 24-27 with served courses that include holiday classics such as roast turkey with gravy, cornbread with sausage and chestnut stuffing, cranberry sauce, and mashed potatoes, alongside island-inspired fare such as steamed crab legs, poke, sashimi, sushi rolls, and bread pudding. 

JW Marriott Cancun Resort and Spa

JW Marriott Cancun Resort and Spa
Pick something from the lobby bar’s epic margarita menu and then head to the pool. JW Marriott Cancun Resort and Spa

Need a holiday escape the whole family will love? You can head south of the border to JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa to celebrate Thanksgiving amid Mexico’s abundant sunshine. The resort offers plenty of activities for kids, yummy cocktails for parents, and serene beach views to guarantee a happy holiday. 

The Offer: Valid now until Jan. 31, 2023, families can book the Family Fun offer for stays of 5 nights or more and receive a daily $100 USD resort credit, free breakfast for two children aged 12 and under, and daily internet access. The offer also guarantees connecting rooms (second room already included in the price), so the whole family can have space to enjoy their vacation. Thanksgiving rates start at $609 per night.

Ponte Vedra Beach Resorts, Florida

Ponte Vedra Beach
Work up an appetite by participating in the annual Turkey Trot Holiday 5K. Ponte Vedra Beach Resorts

Enjoying the holidays at Ponte Vedra Beach Resorts, which is comprised of Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, a historic property dating to 1928, and The Lodge & Club, which features oceanfront views from bespoke suites with in-room fireplaces, means indulging in annual festivities that include a Thanksgiving feast, a Turkey Trot Holiday 5K, and more activities that are fun for the entire family. 

The Offer: Thanksgiving rates start at $499 per night. Festivities at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club will include a Family Pumpkin Carving station ahead of the resort’s Thanksgiving feasts: a Thanksgiving Day Buffet at The Historic Inn and signature fine-dining restaurant Seahorse Grille’s Plated Thanksgiving Dinner. At The Lodge & Club, guests can enjoy a Thanksgiving Brunch from 11am-3pm with culinary action stations featuring breakfast favorites and holiday classics ($78 per adult, $22 per child ages 3-11, and complimentary for children 3 and under). At signature fine-dining restaurant, Sea View Grille, families and friends can gather for a Thanksgiving Dinner Feast from 5-8pm, featuring holiday classics served family-style ($35 per person for à la carte orders). 

Eau Palm Beach Resort and Spa, Florida

Eau Palm Beach Resort and Spa
More holiday meals should be enjoyed in a private cabana. Eau Palm Beach Resort and Spa

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa , a five-star oasis great for couples or families, is an idyllic spot for an oceanfront Thanksgiving getaway that includes several options for enjoying your Thanksgiving meal: an exclusive private dinner, a buffet celebration in the grand ballroom, or four-course dinner menus in two of the resort’s restaurants.

The Offer: Rates over Thanksgiving start at about $1,050 per night with the 4th Night Free offer. The resort’s Thanksgiving Cabana Dinner is a private 5-course plated meal served in the oceanfront cabanas and including a Champagne toast and personal butler service. Reservations are available from 6:30-8:00pm and the price is $350 for adults and $65 for children 5-12 years old. 

The second dining option is the “Eau Does Giving” Thanksgiving buffet in the grand ballroom featuring traditional Thanksgiving favorites and desserts from in-house pastry chef, Keith Wallace ($155 for adults and $55 for kid 11 and under). Restaurants Polpo Palm Beach and Angle will also be offering 4-course prix-fixe Thanksgiving dinner menus ($140 per person).

Shutters on the Beach, California

Shutters pool
Caption: Guests will love a Thanksgiving meal with a California twist. Shutters on the Beach

One of Santa Monica’s iconic beachfront resorts, Shutters on the Beach is a scenic spot to celebrate Thanksgiving Southern-California-style, either as a convenient, leave-the-cooking-to-a-trained-chef option for area residents, or a quick escape for anyone craving L.A. sunshine.

The Offer: Rates over the Thanksgiving period start around $691 per night with a 20 percent discount for a stay of four nights. The hotel’s restaurant, 1 Pico, will serve a three-course menu that highlights Thanksgiving classics—with a twist from Executive Chef Sean Michael Runyon. Featuring vegan options and festive cocktails, the Thanksgiving menu, here, is priced at $125 per person. 

Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino

Aruba Marriott
The activities offered here will keep families busy and thoroughly entertained for days. Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino

Holiday family fun awaits this Thanksgiving at the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, where giving thanks under the sun begins with a lavish oceanfront dinner and continues with cookie-making class for kids and other holiday-inspired activities to kick off the season. Plus, you can relax under a palapa on the beach, take a dip in the resort’s pools, or enjoy an exhilarating UTV tour across Aruba’s arid landscape as you trade traditional turkey for tropical fun. 

The Offer: Thanksgiving week room rates start at $655 per night. On Thursday, Nov. 24, the Aruba Marriott will host Thanksgiving dinner featuring live entertainment, specialty cocktails and unlimited prosecco at La Vista, the resort’s al fresco dining experience featuring spectacular ocean views.

Aqua Mania Adventures, St. Maarten 

St Maarten
A Caribbean meal on Caribbean waters sounds pretty darn good. Aqua Mania Adventures

A Thanksgiving dinner at sea? If the idea floats your boat head to the Dutch island of St. Maarten and celebrate by setting sail on Aqua Mania Adventures’ Tango catamaran for the evening to enjoy a traditional dinner and open bar while sailing the island’s coastline at sunset. 

The Offer: Thanksgiving dinner will be served buffet-style with options ranging from classic turkey and mashed potatoes to more Caribbean-inspired dishes, such as rice and peas and Johnny cakes. After dinner, continue to indulge in tropical cocktails and desserts while watching the sun set over Simpson Bay and dancing the night away to island tunes onboard under the stars. Prices start at $95 per person.

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10 Best Beach Vacation Destinations in the U.S. https://www.islands.com/10-best-beach-vacation-destinations-in-us/ Tue, 13 Sep 2022 15:21:00 +0000 https://www.islands.com/?p=40205 Find family fun in the sun or romance under the stars at these beloved beach settings.

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Memorial Day weekend isn’t the only time our brains should instinctually begin to daydream about the beach. In fact, any time it’s not December, January or February, the beach should be on your mind. Summer vacation planning might mean returning to a seashore that’s been a family tradition for years or heading to a new beach you’ve always wanted to visit.

Thankfully, if you live in the United States, there are plenty of options for the best beach vacation spots across the country’s 50 states. Take to the East Coast, and visit Cape Cod, Massachusetts for an all-American outing, chowing down on lobster rolls and letting your feet seep into the sands. Interested more in a sophisticated, artsy scene? Check out Laguna Beach in California. You also can’t go wrong with a visit to the Magic Isle (Maui) in Hawaii.

If you’re still undecided about where to visit for one of your next beach vacations, here’s a look at the 10 best beach vacation destinations in the U.S.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

A beach in Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod, Massachusetts Shutterstock

Few beach vacation spots are as quintessentially New England as this hook-shaped island. Its scenic sand dunes and shingled cottages have made it an annual summer vacation favorite for generations of Americans. A succession of charming beach towns — including Hyannis to the west, Chatham at the easternmost point and artsy Provincetown at road’s end — offer house rentals, B&Bs and hotels or motels with pools and spa facilities.

And any Cape Cod beach experience must include lobster-roll lunches and sunset clambakes to make for one of the best beach vacations in the U.S. It’s all wicked cool.

Laguna Beach, California

A beach path in Laguna Beach, California
Laguna Beach, California Shutterstock

For summer R&R that includes gallery hopping, wine sipping and spa going, this upscale beach community, located about 90 minutes north of San Diego, is ideal. Several of the best beach resorts in the U.S. — Montage Laguna Beach, the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel and Surf & Sand Resort, among others — are set along the area’s picturesque cliffs and are perfect for a romantic couple’s escape or a girlfriends’ getaway.

The town is a longtime art colony (with more than 100 galleries), so it’s easy to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir. The region’s focus on healthy California cuisine means you’ll eat well in every sense, along one of the best vacation beaches in the country.

Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Florida

A beach in Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Florida
Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Florida Shutterstock

Some places just make you go, “Ahh…” and these neighboring islands on the west coast of Florida are among them. Their endless white-sand beaches — many scattered with delicate sea shells — offer panoramic views of the clear, calm waters and golden sunsets of the Gulf of Mexico.

Sanibel has a distinctly casual charm with small, traditional beachfront motels. Captiva, on the other hand, is golf-cart friendly with legendary eatery the Bubble Room and the large South Seas Island Resort offering activities of all kinds, making for one of the best beach vacations.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Outer Banks, North Carolina
Outer Banks, North Carolina Shutterstock

Historic lighthouses, wild horses and scenic flights in open-cockpit biplanes above the spot where the Wright Brothers first flew — beach family vacations in the Outer Banks can include all this and more.

With a large inventory of beach-house rentals (and quite a few resorts and inns, too), towns such as Duck, Corolla, Hatteras, Nags Head and Kitty Hawk are scattered along this series of sand dune-studded barrier islands, making it a top spot for leisurely getaways with friends and multi-generational family vacations. Fresh seafood is plentiful, and activities include hang gliding, bike riding and deep-sea fishing at one of the best family beach resorts.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach, Oregon Shutterstock

To experience nature at its finest, it’s hard to top Cannon Beach, a wide, wild swath of sand on the Oregon Coast about 90 minutes from Portland. Known for its dramatic rock formations (235-foot-tall Haystack being the most famous), lush rainforests (complete with waterfalls), large artist population (galleries abound) and wildlife (you can easily spot nesting puffins and grazing elk), Cannon Beach is ideal as a romantic-getaway spot for eco-loving couples.

Aside from beachcombing and surfing, hiking is the activity to do (the views from Ecola State Park are sublime), and accommodations include dozens of inns to suit all budgets.

The Hamptons, New York

The Hamptons, New York
The Hamptons, New York Shutterstock

Each summer, this string of charming villages, located on the southeast coast of Long Island, plays host to New York’s A-listers — from Wall Street bigwigs to music moguls — who escape the city to weekend at beachfront estates worthy of an Architectural Digest cover.

But, if you plan ahead, more modest house rentals are also available in Southampton, East Hampton, Bridgehampton, Amagansett and Wainscott. Besides sunning and socializing, the Hamptons are known for farm stands offering fresh, local produce, restaurants specializing in Long Island seafood and farm-to-table cuisine and vineyards ideal for lazy afternoons sipping wine.

Maui, Hawaii

A beach in Maui, Hawaii
Maui, Hawaii Shutterstock

Maui is nicknamed “the Magic Isle” and with good reason.

In addition to its famous beaches (Kaanapali, Wailea and Makena, to name a few), this Hawaiian island is home to Haleakala (a surreal volcanic crater that’s 10,023 feet above sea level), Molokini (a crescent-shaped, offshore lava formation offering superb snorkeling), Upcountry (a lush area with historic cowboy towns and lavender farms) and Hana (a remote spot perched on black-lava landscape and accessible solely via the twisting, turning Hana Highway).

Add in humpback whales (from November to March), spinner dolphins and a half dozen golf courses, and Maui has something for everyone.

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport, Rhode Island
Newport, Rhode Island Shutterstock

Whether you’re into surfing, sailing or touring Gilded Age mansions, Newport is a beach vacation destination with a star-spangled pedigree. Its largest beach, Ruggles, is sweeping crescent of sand favored by surfers. Its historic Thames Street is lined with antique shops, pubs and seafood restaurants.

Choose from an array of romantic inns (the Chanler at Cliff Walk and Forty 1 North, for instance) or full-service hotels (Newport Marriott or Hotel Viking). For active sightseeing, stroll or jog the scenic 3½-mile Cliff Walk with grand mansions on one side and the sailboat-studded waters of Narragansett Bay on the other.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores, Alabama Shutterstock

Want to tick another state off your visited list? Then make it Alabama, where Gulf Shores offers nature (it’s home to 6,500-acre Gulf State Park), entertainment (outdoor concerts) and foodie fun (from shrimp to barbecue).

In total, there are 32 miles of white-sand beaches that let you explore the region’s beautiful landscapes, as you spy on seabirds and eagles, alligators and even black bears. Accommodations include condo rentals, B&Bs, motels, hotels and campsites.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina Shutterstock

If you’re looking for a beach vacation destination that offers active summer sports as well as easy access to a city famous for its history and quirky charm, check out Hilton Head Island. Located 45 minutes from Savannah Georgia, it has carved a niche with its focus on golf, tennis, biking and nature walks, along with a plentiful supply of hotel rooms and condo and house rentals in all price ranges.

Day trips to Savannah add antiquing, historic home tours and low-country cuisine (shrimp and grits, anyone?) to the mix.

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Escape Los Angeles for European-style Glamping this Summer https://www.islands.com/close-to-home/escape-los-angeles-for-european-style-glamping-this-summer/ Fri, 22 Jul 2022 18:27:21 +0000 https://www.islands.com/?p=45061 French company Huttopia’s first west coast U.S. location earns a resounding “Oui!”

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glamping
It might be close to the big city, but this glampground feels another world away. Huttopia

Ready to escape the summertime smog, traffic and crowds of Los Angeles? A mountain spring runs through it at Huttopia’s first west coast outpost, Huttopia Paradise Springs, a glamping and outdoors resort in the San Gabriel Mountains that just re-opened its (canvas) doors on July 1, 2022, after its first season (last year) with only limited accommodations. 

Situated 90 minutes northeast of Los Angeles, the resort now has 68 wood and canvas tents (56 of which run entirely off solar power!) tucked away within a lush canyon set on 135 acres inside the Angeles National Forest. “Paradise Springs” refers to the artesian spring supplying the otherwise desert-surrounds here, creating an unusually green oasis. 

The site once housed a Prohibition-era retreat, the Paradise Mountain Resort and Trout Club, which lured Hollywood types for respite away from the madness of their careers under starlit skies. And even though it’s so close to L.A., Huttopia Paradise Springs promises that same sort of escapism. Today’s guests enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming in the creek and playing pétanque, among other activities. 

Huttopia pool
Guests will enjoy resort vibes with a special connection to nature. Huttopia

Accommodations are far from the tent you slapped together at your last camp out, with electricity and beds inside, as well as enclosed decks and barbecue spaces outside(with the option for private bathrooms and camp kitchens, too).

The property is open seasonally through November. Huttopia’s other North American locations include outposts in Southern Maine, New Hampshire’s White Mountains, Quebec and the Adirondacks. The brand also has some 60 locations across Europe.

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6 Amazing Celebrity Homes for Sale Right Now https://www.islands.com/close-to-home/6-amazing-celebrity-homes-for-sale-right-now/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 15:26:23 +0000 https://www.islands.com/?p=44364 Vacationing like an A-lister is fun, but here’s how you can truly live like one.

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Sun Valley
Paradise is in the eye of the beholder. Sometimes the best oasis is in an unexpected place. TopTenRealEstateDeals.com

Celebrity status definitely makes someone a player in the high-end real-estate market and some of the priciest and most highly coveted homes—many located on the coast in cities such as Los Angeles, New York and Miami—belong to the top names in music, television and the movies. Until they decide to sell them, that is. Certain other residences have a celebrity-related history (think Marilyn Monroe) that gives them eternal star quality. 

Here’s a look at six amazing celebrity homes for sale right now.

A Very Familiar Mansion

Cat Von D mansion
If you think the outside is unique, wait until you see the interior design. TopTenRealEstateDeals.com

If this historic Victorian mansion in Los Angeles looks familiar, it’s because the 12,565-square-foot property was featured in the 2003 movie “Cheaper by the Dozen” starring Steve Martin and Hilary Duff. But in real life, it’s been owned by celebrated tattoo entrepreneur/model/author Cat Von D since 2016. 

Built in the 1890s, the three-story home features 11 bedrooms, 8.5 bathrooms, seven fireplaces and all the over-the-top décor one would expect given its owner’s penchant for goth-inspired drama. Asking price: $15 million.

A Truly Star-studded NYC Penthouse

NYC Penthouse Evan Joseph Studios
Seemingly handed down from one great talent to another, perhaps there’s a little magic within these walls. Evan Joseph Studios, Courtesy of Compass

Celebrities do indeed catch some Z’s in the city that never sleeps — and three of them nodded off in a quadplex penthouse in New York’s Noho neighborhood located in a circa-1908 silk factory building (many might remember its ground floor as home to Tower Records in the ‘80s and ‘90s). 

Music and film legend Cher was the penthouse’s first owner until she sold it to entrepreneur Russell Simmons in 1990. Britney Spears later bought the apartment and resided there for four years, combining the space with another unit to create a 3,785-square-foot, four-bedroom abode featuring wood-burning fireplaces and a large terrace with views over Greenwich Village. Asking price: $6,995,000.

A Fast and Furious Downtown LA Penthouse

LA Penthouse
When you live your life a quarter-mile at a time, it helps to have a luxurious, stylish place to rest. TopTenRealEstateDeals.com

The social scene in the trendy LA Arts District can be fast and furious, but Taiwanese director Justin Lin, director of “Fast & Furious 10,” hitting theaters in May 2023, is moving out of the production company office/residence he’s called home for the past few years. Located in a historic 1925 building that once housed the West Coast headquarters of Nabisco, the penthouse spans three levels and features 4,300 square feet of flexible interior space and 3,600 square feet of outdoor terraces (with 360-degree views from the rooftop). 

The industrial-chic residence area features two bedrooms and three baths along with exposed brick and open spaces crisscrossed by architecturally striking stairways. Asking price: $7 million.

A Venice Compound for Dreamers

Venice Compound
This is classic California living at its finest. Luke Gibson Photography

The quirky, canal-laced beachfront neighborhood of Venice, California is a casual and sunny playground that also happens to have quite a few unique and luxurious homes—including a compound created from two side-by-side houses by Jonathan King, award-winning producer of “Dream Girls, “Stillwater” and “Swan Song.” 

Located on walkable Marco Place, the ultra-private property features a 3,900-square-foot, four-bedroom contemporary home with an open floor plan on the ground level leading to a pool and spa, as well as a detached two-story pool house with a guest suite. Asking price: $10 million.

John Legend & Chrissy Teigen’s NYC Penthouse Project

John Legend Penthouse
A Chrissy Teigen Twitter follow is not included. Tina Gallo

Singer John Legend and his model/TV personality wife Chrissy Teigen had plans to combine and renovate two apartments in New York’s Nolita neighborhood into one 6,164-square-foot duplex penthouse with six bedrooms, seven baths, large windows and 3,300 square feet of rooftop terraces. 

But now, with the couple spending most of their time on the West Coast, they have decided to put both units on the market for anyone eager to take on the project. Asking price: $18 million.

Don’t Miss this Bus

Sun Valley
Who says paradise can’t be found in Idaho? TopTenRealEstateDeals.com

It may not be on the coast, but Sun Valley, Idaho, is a playground for those who enjoy skiing and snowboarding in winter and fly fishing, biking and hiking in winter. It was also the setting for screen legend Marilyn Monroe’s 1956 film “Bus Stop,” which was filmed on a rustic-luxe estate that’s now for sale. 

The 12-acre compound features a 6,000-square-foot modern craftsman main house with five bedrooms, a 3,000-square-foot party barn and a 2,000-square-foot guest house, a former general store that was the setting for Grace’s Diner in the movie before it was repurposed into a guest house for the estate. Asking price: $15,995,000.

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