5 East Coast Hotels to Book This Summer
The kind of coastal stays people return to year after year
There’s a certain kind of summer the East Coast does best—hydrangea-lined streets, long lunches by the water, and evenings that stretch well past sunset. And while there’s no shortage of places to stay, a few hotels consistently stand out.
These are the ones people come back to year after year—the kind of stays that define a proper East Coast summer.
Chatham Bars Inn — Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Set on a bluff overlooking the Atlantic, Chatham Bars Inn is one of the most iconic resorts on Cape Cod.
Why it’s worth booking:
Private beach with full service
Oceanfront dining and classic Cape Cod views
On-site farm, spa, and activities
Cottage-style accommodations for a more private stay
Best for: a full-service coastal stay where everything—from the beach to dinner—is handled for you
Courtesy of Chatham Bars Inn
Congress Hall — Cape May, New Jersey
A staple of the Jersey Shore, Congress Hall blends historic charm with an easy, coastal feel.
Why it’s worth booking:
Prime location just steps from the beach
Large front lawn, pool, and beach service
Multiple dining options, including The Blue Pig Tavern
Classic architecture and timeless summer atmosphere
Best for: a classic, easy summer stay with a relaxed, nostalgic feel
Courtesy of Congress Hall
Ocean House — Watch Hill, Rhode Island
If you’re looking for a true luxury experience on the East Coast, Ocean House is in a category of its own.
Why it’s worth booking:
Private beach with dedicated service
Multiple restaurants, including fine dining overlooking the water
Spa, cooking classes, and curated guest experiences
Iconic yellow façade and panoramic ocean views
Best for: an all-in, elevated stay where you don’t need to leave the property
Courtesy of Ocean House
Harbor View Hotel — Martha’s Vineyard, MA
Classic, coastal, and right in the heart of Edgartown, Harbor View Hotel is everything you want from a Vineyard stay.
Why it’s worth booking:
Walkable to downtown shops, restaurants, and the harbor
Complimentary bikes for exploring the island
Bright, coastal rooms with quintessential New England charm
Pool and lawn areas perfect for slow mornings
Best for: a classic vineyard stay with coastal charm, bikes, and slow, easy mornings
Courtesy of Harbor View Hotel
Marram Montauk — Montauk, New York
Marram offers a quieter, more design-forward take on Montauk—minimalist, beachy, and intentionally understated.
Why it’s worth booking:
Direct beach access with bonfires and surf culture energy
Clean, neutral interiors with a focus on simplicity
Wellness programming and low-key activities
Walking distance to Montauk’s main spots
Best for: a quieter, design-forward montauk stay with a more laid-back, barefoot feel
Courtesy of Marram
Final Thoughts
There are a lot of places to stay on the East Coast, but these are the ones that consistently hold up. Good locations, well-designed, and easy to come back to—year after year.
If you’re planning a summer trip, this is where I’d start. Once you’ve stayed at one of these, it’s hard to settle for anything else.
