Whether your idea of a perfect beach vacation is a sun-soaked island in the South Pacific or a boho-chic cottage in Mexico, there is no denying the magic of a few days on the sand, by the sea. Read on for our members’ most beloved luxury beach resorts of 2019.
Contact Indagare for assistance planning a beach vacation. Our specialists can book you at the property that is right for you, plan seamless travel transfers and arrange great activities, meals and special experiences.
COMO Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos
COMO Parrot Cay is exclusive (located on its own cay) and expensive, but in design and ambience, the resort evokes the castaway, barefoot-chic feel of a private island.
Best For: Travelers who enjoy a relaxed, understated vibe and are looking to unplug with full-service amenities in a jungle-like setting; also, spa aficionados who want to take advantage of COMO Shambhala.
Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club, Miami
Twenty minutes north of Miami Beach on a beautiful stretch of coastline, the Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club offers the perfect blend of top-notch service and fresh, modern accommodations.
Best for: Families looking for a sophisticated resort that still has amenities for kids, as well as couples looking for a chic, romantic getaway.
Il Pellicano, Tuscany
First opened in the 1960s, Il Pellicano, a Mediterranean hideaway carved into the rocky coastline of Tuscany’s Monte Argentario peninsula, remains one of the most glamorous seaside spots in Italy.
Best For: Lovers of Old World glamour and retro romance who want to step into the pages of a Slim Aarons photograph (and don’t need the most up-to-date interiors or glitzy bathrooms).
The Brando, French Polynesia
Marlon Brando’s private island paradise, located 33 miles from Tahiti, has been transformed into an eco-luxury resort, comprised of spacious and stylish villas with private plunge pools and gardens.
Best For: Couples with a taste for exclusivity who appreciate the resort’s ecologically sustainable approach.
Related: The Ultimate Exotic Beach Vacations: Indagare Matchmaker
Four Seasons Costa Rica
The Four Seasons Costa Rica offers excellent outdoor activities, such as zip-lining and hiking in the jungle, along with beachside relaxation, reliable five-star service and delicious food.
Best For: An equally wonderful place for couples or families, this property is perfect for those who want an easy getaway.
Coral Sands Resort, Harbour Island
Coral Sands, a Harbour Island mainstay since 1968, is the island’s most family-friendly resort, featuring one- and two-bedroom cottages right on the beach.
Best For: Families who love the beach.
Four Seasons Anguilla
With a stylish design, spacious accommodations and a large spa and gym, this Anguilla property is a home run for both families and couples.
Best For: Travelers who want a sleek, full-service resort and a buzzy beach scene.
The Breakers, Palm Beach
Inspired by the villas of the Italian Renaissance, Henry Morrison Flagler’s storied hotel (originally the Palm Beach Inn) has had many incarnations but remains what it always was: the grande dame of Palm Beach.
Best For: Travelers who will appreciate the sprawling grounds, bustling scene and plentiful amenities of the property, including sports facilities, a kids’ club, a spa and many on-property dining options. Families with children will love the beach and pool facilities.
Hotel Esencia, Riviera Maya
The 43-room boutique Hotel Esencia feels beautifully off the radar, like being invited to a chic friend’s beach home.
Best For: Couples who appreciate rustic luxury and the proximity to Tulum.
Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France
This pampering hotel on Flamands Beach epitomizes the island’s laid-back style and was completely redone in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma.
Best For: Travelers who want to feel as if they’ve arrived in the midst of a convivial house party, at a property that manages to be at once glamorous and welcoming.
Related: The Most Romantic Destinations Around the World
Shutters on the Beach, Santa Monica
This iconic beachfront property draws both Los Angeles locals and travelers from around the globe looking for a comfortable yet sophisticated setting.
Best For: Travelers looking for the best-of-the-best in Santa Monica.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
The ultimate luxury resort on the Big Island, the swanky Four Seasons complex is a destination in itself.
Best For: Couples and families whose ideal vacation includes lots of together time at the beach, the pool or in the gardens of a beautiful property. Travelers who want the resort to be the focus of their stay will appreciate the Four Seasons (which has multiple pools, tennis courts and a championship golf course).
Related: The Top 10: Where to Find the Best Surfing in the World
Amanyara, Turks and Caicos
Amanyara’s gorgeous design is the star here, as clean lines and Asian-inspired edifices stand starkly against a peaceful setting of white sand, turquoise water and clear skies.
Best For: Those who are interested in design and who enjoy a secluded, remote location where the days are all about quiet relaxation and quality time with your travel companion.
Las Ventanas al Paraíso, Cabo, Mexico
Meaning “the windows to paradise,” this iconic, romantic resort lives up to its hype.
Best For: Couples or friends traveling together who are looking for an intimate getaway in a stylish setting.
Related: Mexico’s Best Beach Resorts
The Ocean Club, a Four Seasons Resort
This grand property, formerly a private estate, brings reliable luxury and service to a pretty Bahamian beach that is close to the bustle of Atlantis but in its own serene setting.
Best For: Both couples and families looking for a refined and legendary haven in the Bahamas that is an easy flight from the U.S.
Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Cabo
Chileno Bay has a phenomenal restaurant; one of the few swimmable beaches in Cabo; and hands-on, friendly service, making it particularly ideal for families.
Best For: Families, groups of friends and couples looking for lots of amenities and one of the only swimmable beaches in Cabo.
Four Seasons Astir Palace, Athens
With an incredible seaside setting, contemporary accommodations and excellent resort facilities, the Four Seasons Astir Palace reigns as the top hotel in Athens.
Best For: Anyone who plans to spend more than one night in Athens should stay here. Travelers who aren’t able to visit the further-flung Greek islands can also combine relaxing beach time at the Four Seasons resort with historic touring in the city.
Casa del Mar, Santa Monica
The sister hotel to Shutters on the Beach provides a more opulent alternative with a buzzy vibe, right on Santa Monica’s beach.
Best For: Travelers looking for a livelier atmosphere than Shutters who also want to stay in a five-star oceanfront property.
The Four Seasons Biltmore, Santa Barbara
The Four Seasons brings serious luxury to Santa Barbara’s toniest neighborhood, with access to the beloved Coral Casino beach club.
Best For: Traditionalists, couples, beach lovers and families would all be happy here.
One & Only Palmilla, Cabo, Mexico
The authentically Mexican One & Only Palmilla offers the ultimate in pampering service and a swimmable beach.
Best For: Families and couples who want over-the-top extravagance and appreciate classic Mexican architecture.
Four Seasons Punta Mita, Mexico
With two swimmable beaches, excellent restaurants serving Mexican cuisine and world-class kids’ programs, the Four Seasons Punta Mita has fostered exceptional loyalty among repeat guests.
Best For: This is a first-rate family resort, but couples will also appreciate its extensive amenities.
Contact Indagare for assistance planning a beach vacation. Our specialists can book you at the property that is right for you, plan seamless travel transfers and arrange great activities, meals and special experiences.
