Travelers planning a high-end East Coast escape this month will find Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard topping the list as the most expensive summer getaways in the country, according to a new analysis from CheapHotels.org.
Island Getaways Come at a Premium
A recent national survey by CheapHotels.org compared August hotel prices across popular destinations, focusing on three-star and above properties located near beaches or downtowns. Nantucket, Massachusetts emerged as the leader, commanding an average lowest nightly rate of $621 for a double room. Not far behind, Martha’s Vineyard came in at $532 per night.
Montauk, New York—famed for its laid-back beach scene—rounded out the top three with average nightly rates of $512.
Northeast and Coastal Retreats Dominate Top 10
Several other iconic Northeastern retreats also ranked among the costliest, with Maine’s Kennebunkport, Bar Harbor, and Portland all securing places in the Top 10. On the West Coast, Huntington Beach took California’s top spot at $351 per night.
Rates reflect the average price for the lowest-priced double room between August 1 and 31, inclusive of all taxes and fees.
Hotel Prices Shift from Previous Years
Compared to 2023, prices among the 20 most expensive US summer destinations have dropped an average of 7%. The biggest increases were in Laguna Beach and Santa Barbara, both up nearly 20%. Meanwhile, travelers can find deals in Poipu (Hawaii) and Avalon (California), where rates have plunged over 30%.
Top 10 Most Expensive US Summer Destinations
(Average Nightly Rate):
- Nantucket (MA) – $621
- Martha’s Vineyard (MA) – $532
- Montauk (NY) – $512
- Saratoga Springs (NY) – $389
- Burlington (VT) – $387
- Kennebunkport (ME) – $387
- Bar Harbor (ME) – $374
- Provincetown (MA) – $373
- Huntington Beach (CA) – $351
- Portland (ME) – $346
