How to plan a stress-free summer beach vacation
These idyllic, world-class destinations and resorts deliver oceanside experiences for a perfectly seamless summer retreat.
By Paul Oswell | April 17, 2026
Summer vacation should be a stress-free zone. Whether you’re booking a romantic couple’s retreat or your family’s dream trip, choose a beach destination that offers a spectacular location, deluxe amenities, and endless servings of sunny weather. Where you stay matters when planning the ultimate summer beach getaway. Below, discover several top-rated resorts in unbeatable locations, along with tips to make the most of your stay.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Journey to the Dominican Republic, where you’ll be welcomed by unbelievably soft sand and the crystal waters of the Caribbean Sea. This slice of paradise is overlooked by Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton. A stunning rooftop pool is just one of four swimming options, while six on-site restaurants feature delicious Thai, Italian, and Caribbean cuisines. Meander down to Playa Esmeralda, where stress melts away under the palm trees, and you need only leave your cabana to snorkel or kayak along the cove. And since Hilton Honors Members earn Points towards free nights on every stay, you can start daydreaming about your next vacation as you relax with an indulgent treatment at Acana Spa & Wellness. With the latest Hilton Honors’ tier updates, Members enjoy faster access to perks like daily food and beverage credit, elite bonuses, and more.
Bahamas
Few destinations are iconic enough to instantly conjure up the idyllic vacations we all dream about. The islands of the Bahamas are synonymous with exquisite summer vacations, from the beautiful beaches to the clear waters to dolphins splashing in the distance. In Nassau, the timeless elegance of Goldwynn Resort and Residences, an SLH Hotel stands out. You’ll feel rejuvenated as you float in the infinity pool, looking out onto beloved Cable Beach, where pristine white sands stretch as far as the eye can see. Elegant studios and suites for families and couples, some with personal butlers, create a nostalgic oceanside experience that you'll remember forever. Dine on fresh Mediterranean dishes at OIA Restaurant or have your cabana concierge serve drinks as you soak up the views. As a Hilton Honors Member, the perks start early, as you can choose ocean or garden rooms up to 24 hours in advance.
Honolulu, Hawaii
The white sands of Honolulu’s Waikiki Beach will inspire you to leave everyday stresses behind and bask in the sun-soaked natural beauty of O’ahu. Just steps from this idyllic coastline are the breezy, spacious studios, infinity pool, and tranquil spa of Ka La’i Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts. Suites with picture-frame windows and kitchenettes make travel effortless for families or couples, while on-site restaurants add another layer of ease and convenience. For something more intimate, the concierge can arrange a private chef for in-suite dining. Ancient techniques using the island’s natural bounty await at Spa Ka La‘i, where a traditional Lomi Lomi massage restores your body’s natural flow. Relaxation is even easier when you remember that Hilton Honors Members enjoy guaranteed discounted room rates when booking directly on Hilton.com or through the Hilton Honors app.
Elounda, Greece
A striking, sheltered bay is the naturally stunning backdrop to the glorious Greek town of Elounda. A memorably romantic vacation awaits, thanks to Mediterranean sunshine, dramatic clifftops, and some of Europe’s finest beaches. Make those shared memories at the upscale, adults-only Domes Aulus Elounda Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton. Elounda is one of the jewels in Crete’s island crown, and you can bask in the glow on the resort’s private beach, at one of the three pools, or on the private terrace connected to your spacious Cool Living Selection suite. Whether half-board or all-inclusive, the six signature restaurants offer views of the Aegean Sea and Spinalonga Island that will be just as unforgettable as the delectable dishes. Extend your stay and lap up the experience for longer: Hilton Honors Members can linger with late check-out times (when available).
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
It’s always beach season on Florida’s Atlantic coast. For a seamless summer vacation, set your sights on the sun-drenched sands of Fort Lauderdale. Its sparkling canals, 24 miles (39 kilometers) of beaches, and buzzing waterfront have earned the city its nickname as the Venice of America. Hotel Maren Fort Lauderdale Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton celebrates seaside chic throughout its beautiful marina and ocean-view rooms and suites, just across the street from Las Olas Beach. Charter a yacht from Pier 66 Marina, sunbathe on the golden sands, or lounge around the resort’s fifth-floor pool. Relish authentic coastal Italian flavors at Riviera, the hotel’s poolside restaurant, or enjoy sunset ocean views at Acqua Pool Bar. For peace of mind, Hilton Honors Members can travel light and access their Digital Key from the Hilton Honors app.
Paul Oswell
Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guidebooks/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California, and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.
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