Seaside Vacation:

Best Cottages and Resorts in the US

When choosing the perfect vacation spot, you first need to decide what kind of vacation you want. Are you looking for a peaceful, relaxing spot to read, eat out, enjoy sunrises and sunsets? Or perhaps an activity filled vacation going biking, sailing, kayaking and snorkeling? No matter what you want to do, these places will provide you will whichever kind of vacation you need to unwind and reconnect with yourself and your family.

The Cottages and Lofts at the Boat Basin is located in Nantucket, Massachusetts is a beautiful and unique location. The cottages were built hanging over the harbor, giving you a peaceful place to listen to the sound of the ocean lapping against the dock. Even better, you are a very short walk to downtown Nantucket where you can enjoy a day of shopping or perhaps catch some live music at The Club Car, where they have sing-a-longs at the piano. Book a trip on the sailboat the Endeavor for a romantic afternoon for two, or go pirate themed for the whole family to enjoy. They are also known for their exceptional service, as each cottage has a kitchen which will be fully stocked with your shopping list before you arrive. A great summer vacation spot no matter what you want your vacation to be.

Heading south, you can find a perfect little paradise at The Moorings Village Resort in Islamorada, Florida. With 18 cottages and houses, this former coconut plantation turned resort is a gorgeous place to either enjoy a quiet vacation reading on the beach of the Florida Keys. There is also upscale restaurants, and seafood shanties to catch a good meal. There are plenty of activities for the water lover, such as sport fishing charters, scuba diving and snorkeling, and eco-tours which will take you around to see dolphin pods, crocodiles, manatees and even flamingos. For the land lubbers, there are plenty of art galleries and cultural museums to the tour. The Moorings is an ideal tropical getaway for anyone looking to escape the daily rat race.

If you are looking to enjoy a luxurious seaside vacation, The Beach Village at the Del, a new addition to the Hotel Del Coronado on Coronado Island, California is the place for you. It is high end at its finest with gorgeous cottages facing the Pacific Ocean, and the Coastal View Villa Suite with a full kitchen. You can bike around the island, swim in the ocean or secluded pools if you want to enjoy a quiet time. Alternatively, you can drive ten minutes or take the ferry right into downtown San Diego and check out all the amazing things this city offers. The Beach Village offers a personal concierge to help you create a memorable vacation in which you can pamper yourself.

Lastly is a place that is near and dear to my heart. It is not fancy, nor luxurious, but it is down home Maine in every single way. The Sea Escape Cottages on Bailey Island in Maine are located right on Casco Bay, offering panoramic view of the ocean and neighboring fishing towns. There are four cottages and a main house that has a penthouse apartment, and two more additional apartments in a separate building. All are extremely clean, and offer kitchens, sitting areas and bedrooms all decorated in New England marine décor. Traditional weathered wood, an expansive rolling green hill to the water and dock, this hidden gem of Maine is perfect for a relaxing vacation. Family owned by Les and Donna McNelly and their daughter Bethany and her husband Perry help run this quaint Maine seaside spot. Bethany and Perry run charter sails on their boat Tevake, and one of the most charming moment of the day is Les blowing the conch at sunset. Sitting by the firepit, watching the sunset (because of the way Bailey Island is situated, it faces west, allowing for awesome sunsets!) after a great meal at Cook’s restaurant is the best way to end the day.

These are just a few options for you to check out when planning your seaside vacation, giving you a go to the jumping point in your search for the ideal resort.

by L.A. DiNardi