When people talk about the top beach destinations in the United States, they’ll usually mention places like Hawaii, Florida, and California. But the truth is that the East Coast is filled with gorgeous beach destinations and resorts, from Fire Island to Cape May.
New York is famous for its diversity, and the beaches are the same. There are so many different types of beaches in New York to enjoy. The variety ranges from bustling urban beaches equipped with boardwalks and tourism to untouched nature reserves filled with scenic ecosystems and native wildlife. Visitors can take the Seastreak Ferry or visit Montauk for the day.
Regardless of your beach preferences, there is definitely a perfect East Coast beach hotel for you. Today, we have compiled a list of all the resorts worth checking out in and around New York City.
1. Sound View Greenport
Sound View Greenport is the quintessential waterfront Long Island hotel! Located in Greenport, New York, this modernist resort is one of the best hotels for a retreat away from the city. It sits upon the Long Island Sound, which is how it earned its name.
Staying at a beachfront hotel like Sound View gives guests the opportunity to swim in the heated outdoor pool while taking in views of the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. Relax by the pool, have snacks and drinks from Jack’s Shack — the on-resort bar and lounge — and listen to live music.
Out of all the New York beach hotels, Sound View has some of the best waterfront dining.
So, if snacks aren’t enough to satisfy your appetite, pay a visit to the on-site restaurant, Halyard Greenport. Made with locally sourced ingredients, you can enjoy fresh seafood in the dining room or on the deck.
2. Collective Governors Island
For ocean views a stone’s throw away from Manhattan, check out Collective Governors Island – A New York City Retreat. Governors Island is only an eight-minute ferry ride from the mainland, but once you’re there, it’ll feel like you’ve entered a personal oasis. This is one of the best beaches to escape the city for a weekend daycation.
The island boasts 173 acres of sprawling green space to take advantage of. When the sun rises, you can wake up refreshed with morning yoga. During the day, enjoy slow bike rides across the island or fun-filled lawn games, and at night, indulge in live music, scrumptious s’mores, or sunset cocktails with a view of the Statue of Liberty.
If you can’t totally disconnect from the responsibilities of the working world, the hotel also offers dedicated workspaces to get stuff done. For food, a complimentary continental breakfast will start the day off right, while the a la carte dinner options include locally sourced meat, fish, and seasonal vegetables.
Collective Retreats is revolutionizing glamping with beautiful villas and suites that provide everything you love about the great outdoors without the things that give you a headache. Experience NYC like you never have before at Governors Island.
3. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City can be found on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk in New Jersey. The Hard Rock is lively, vibrant, and the ideal weekend getaway for anyone who wants to have fun!
The resort’s indoor pool is open all year long. This makes it a great option for the colder months of the year and an escape from the hot Jersey Shore during the summertime. The pool features a sleek design and is surrounded by large windows that provide guests with a view of the skyline.
Another perk of staying at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is the private beach access. The oceanfront resort is within walking distance from the sandy shore. Grab a beach chair and umbrella and take in the beautiful ocean view. This is also a very good opportunity for guests to try out water sports like kayaking and jet skiing.
Additionally, the Hard Rock ocean resort provides guests with access to the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk. Check out the shops, dining options, and arcades and enjoy your stay in the famous beach town.
4. The Asbury Hotel
The Asbury Hotel is just a hop, skip, and a jump from the city. Situated in Asbury Park, New Jersey, this trendy resort is the perfect destination for a New Yorker getaway.
The heated pool is one of the most popular perks of staying at The Asbury Hotel. Even during the chilly East Coast winters, you can go for a dip and swim in complete comfort.
The only thing better than swimming at The Asbury is hanging out poolside. Lay out on the lounge chairs and get your daily dose of Vitamin D. Would you rather be in the shade? Rent a private cabana for you and your group and enjoy a more exclusive experience.
There are loads of beverages to choose from at the pool bar. The wide variety of drinks ranges from non-alcoholic to canned beer, wine, and cocktails for the grownups. You can also grab a bite to eat from the daily food truck. All the snacks are fresh and Latin-inspired.
5. Block Island Beach House
Block Island Beach House is a historic vacation spot on the coast of Rhode Island. The Surf at Block Island Beach House began its storied history as a small cottage aptly named Surf Cottage due to its proximity to the water.
Block Island Beach House is very good at keeping things easy, comfortable, and convenient for its guests. The resort is within walking distance of the beach and has a perfect lounge for sipping on drinks and snacking on housemade delicacies.
Aside from playing in the sand and going for a swim in the water, there are also rentals for water sports equipment. Go paddle boarding, kayaking, or play a game of volleyball, all with a gorgeous ocean view.
The Beach House also has an in-ground outdoor pool open seasonally for visitors to enjoy. Take in the coastal beauty, unwind, and create lasting memories at this charming oceanfront retreat.
Beach Bag Must-Haves
Before you head to the beach, here are three items you absolutely cannot leave behind!
1. Sun Protection
Wearing sunscreen is super important when hanging out at sunny places like the beach! Without sun protection, the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays can cause sunburn and cause further skin damage. Enjoy safely soaking up the sun, and remember to wear and reapply your sunscreen throughout your stay at the beach!
Sunglasses are another form of sun protection worth bringing along. The ultraviolet rays from the sun can actually have a negative effect on your eyes as well. You don’t need to keep your shades on the entire time that you are outside, but avoiding prolonged exposure to the sunlight with your bare eyes will minimize the possibility of any damage.
2. Appropriate Attire
Although you technically could go swimming in your denim jeans, it doesn’t seem like that would be much fun. Make sure you dress appropriately for your trip to the beach.
Wear your fave bikini, one-piece, trunks, rashguard, or wetsuit and hit the waves. Don’t forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes. Driving home in dry clothing will make things much more comfortable!
3. Water & Snacks
It might seem counterintuitive to bring water to the beach when you have the entire ocean right in front of you, but the truth is that it’s super important to stay hydrated while hanging out in the sun. Drinking enough water will help to regulate your body temperature. Don’t let dehydration get in the way of your summer fun!
Snacks are also important if you plan on being active during your time at the beach. Swimming in the ocean waves and running on the rocks or sand can burn calories quickly.
Though this is a great way to make a workout fun, you are going to need to replenish your food intake throughout the day to keep your energy levels up. Bring whatever yummy snacks you like to eat, but if you’d rather keep it light, consider foods like nuts, fruits, and veggies.
How To Use ResortPass
ResortPass is an online service that allows you to purchase Day Passes for luxury resorts. Instead of paying to stay at the hotel, you can simply book yourself a daycation.
Select the resort of your choice, pick a date, and then choose between a variety of Day Passes, Spa Passes, and Cabanas or Daybeds. On the day of your reservation, check in with the concierge and enjoy your access to the hotel amenities. It’s as simple as that!
If you need to make a cancellation, you can get a full refund on Standard Day Passes as long as you do so 48 hours before your reservation is set to begin. With Premium Passes like cabana reservations, you will need to cancel at least 72 hours before.
So, whether you’re aiming to explore a state park near you or take a ferry to a barrier island, ResortPass can support your trip.
