This award-winning resort in the continental U.S. boasts breathtaking views of a hidden California beach and features a Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant.

You don't have to travel far to enjoy an unforgettable getaway. In fact, a passport isn't necessary at all. Just discover your own piece of American paradise at one of the country’s top resorts. With this year's list of reader favorites in the continental U.S., finding the perfect destination from coast to coast will be a breeze.

Voting Process Overview

For our annual World's Best Awards survey, T+L invites readers to share their travel experiences worldwide—offering insights on the best hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise lines, spas, airlines, and more. In 2024, over 186,000 T+L readers participated, casting more than 700,000 votes across 8,700+ properties (including hotels, cities, and cruise lines).

Hotels were categorized as resort hotels, city hotels, inns, or safari lodges based on their location and amenities, and were specifically rated according to the following criteria:

• Accommodations/amenities
• Setting
• Staff
• Cuisine
• Cost

Participants were given the option to rate each attribute as excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The overall scores represent the average of these evaluations.

Highlights from Readers

This year's selection features the finest destinations along America's coastlines and mountainous regions. Notably, the American West shines brightest, claiming nine out of the 15 resorts listed, with Colorado and California each featuring three times on the list of the top 15 resorts in the continental U.S.

Several beloved resorts from previous years make a comeback on the 2024 list, such as the ever-stylish Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection (ranked No. 4) in Aspen, Colorado, which also held the title of Colorado's top hotel in the 2023 rankings. Additionally, Quisisana Resort (No. 8) in Maine offers a summer camp getaway for adults that will leave you reminiscing, "I carried a watermelon."

A brand-new addition has soared to the top for 2024 — a resort that’s just a few steps away from the beach in California. Read on to discover which resorts should be on your booking list this year.

The Champion

Mission Pacific Beach Resort: Oceanside, California

Mission Pacific Beach Resort is making waves in this year's World's Best Awards. Not only does it claim the title of the No. 1 resort in the continental U.S., but it has also been recognized as the best resort in California. Guests can enjoy the beach without ever needing to put on shoes, as it's just a stone's throw away. They can easily slide open their private balcony doors to let in the refreshing ocean breeze day and night. While the resort is ideally located for those looking to explore the area, it's also a destination in itself. It features a Michelin-starred restaurant, Valle, known for its delicious Mexican cuisine, along with a rooftop bar serving craft cocktails that are perfect for sunset. While staying here, be sure to visit the iconic “Top Gun” house, the same Victorian cottage that featured in the original 1986 film.

The Complete List

1. Mission Pacific Hotel: Oceanside, California

The Mission Pacific Hotel flawlessly blends elegance and comfort. This tranquil retreat offers stunning ocean views, enhancing the Southern California experience, and includes exceptional dining as a delightful extra.

Reader Rating: 99.17

2. The Winnetu Oceanside Resort: Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Experience a touch of New England charm by staying at The Winnetu Oceanside Resort on Martha's Vineyard. This incredibly family-friendly resort is just a quick stroll from the beach and offers numerous clambakes to enjoy together.

Reader Rating: 99.00

3. Hotel Hartness: Greenville, South Carolina

Southern hospitality thrives at Hotel Hartness. This boutique hotel offers a serene environment with its vast estate for guests to explore and the extensive Spa H, providing every imaginable treatment for visitors.

Reader Rating: 98.80

4. Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection: Aspen, Colorado

This iconic luxury retreat allows guests to indulge in their Old West dreams with activities like horseback riding, fly fishing, and exploring nearby ghost towns. After a day of adventure, they can unwind with some of the finest cocktails in the West at the popular bar, Bad Harriet.

Reader Rating: 98.24

5. Cedar Lakes Estate: Port Jervis, New York

Experience a picturesque getaway to the Hudson Valley at Cedar Lakes. This rustic yet elegant retreat provides an array of outdoor activities, including lake boating, tennis, volleyball, and numerous lawn games. After a full day of fun, guests can relax with farm-to-table dining featuring fresh produce harvested from the chef's own garden.

Reader Rating: 98.20

6. Deer Path Inn: Lake Forest, Illinois

Deer Path Inn offers a taste of English countryside elegance right in Illinois. The inn features a stunning Tudor-style facade adorned with ivy, complemented by refined interiors where guests can relax by the fireplaces, enjoy plush leather seating, or partake in the quintessential afternoon tea served in the charming English Room.

Reader Rating: 98.11

7. Triple Creek Ranch: Darby, Montana

Experience the ultimate cowboy adventure at Triple Creek, an amazing ranch nestled in the stunning wilderness of Montana. Guests can relax in their private cabins, visit the ranch's friendly horses, embark on fly fishing excursions, or enjoy the unique thrill of panning for sapphires straight from the river that flows through the property.

Reader Rating: 97.87

8. Quisisana Resort: Lovell, Maine

Reignite your inner child at this camp-themed resort. Situated along the shores of Lake Kezar, the resort embodies fun for everyone. Guests can partake in musical and theatrical performances, enjoy lake activities suitable for all ages, and embrace the sense of community that thrives here.

Reader Rating: 97.77

9. Madeline Hotel and Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection: Telluride, Colorado

Discover a year-round haven at the Madeline Hotel and Residences. Nestled at the foot of a mountain, this hotel is ideal for ski-in, ski-out adventures and also serves as a fantastic base for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing during the spring, summer, and fall.

Reader Rating: 96.67

10. Sonnenalp Hotel: Vail, Colorado

Embrace the ski atmosphere at Sonnenalp Hotel, situated near the base of Vail, one of Colorado's most cherished ski resorts. Winter sports lovers can indulge in luxury with the hotel's dedicated ski concierge and private ski lounge, always stocked with hot cocoa for a cozy retreat.

Reader Rating: 96.47

11. Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa: Rancho Santa Fe, California

Nestled on 45 beautiful acres of secluded land, Rancho Valencia has earned the admiration of T+L readers for its tranquil ambiance and extensive wellness amenities. Guests can engage in daily fitness activities, such as morning yoga and TRX classes, or unwind in its 5-star spa, where every treatment is personalized for each guest.

Reader Rating: 96.44

12. Little Palm Island Resort & Spa: Little Torch Key, Florida

Escape to tranquility at Little Palm Island, a private retreat accessible only by boat or seaplane. This idyllic island, which was named the best hotel in Florida in the 2023 World's Best Awards, is perfect for disconnecting from the digital world. With no TVs and a focus on limiting screen time, guests can enjoy stunning sunset views and relax in hammocks.

Reader Score: 96.29

13. The Ranch at Rock Creek: Philipsburg, Montana

Experience the adventurous essence of Montana with a stay at The Ranch at Rock Creek. This transformed 19th-century homestead serves as an all-inclusive retreat, offering a range of accommodations from glamping cabins to a beautifully restored barn and luxurious rooms. Regardless of the choice, guests will enjoy a lavish experience without sacrificing comfort.

Reader Score: 96.22

14. The Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa: Oceanside, California

Experience the California dream at The Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa. Perched by the Pacific Ocean, this resort showcases coastal chic design, with its blue decor reflecting the stunning sea views. Guests can enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with live music and cozy fire pits, perfect for roasting marshmallows and making s'mores.

Reader Score: 96.15

15. The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection: Park City, Utah

Reconnect with the beauty of nature at The Lodge at Blue Sky. From the moment guests arrive, the resort is designed to immerse them in the enchanting mountain surroundings. Open the doors to your Earth Suites or Sky Lodge rooms to let in the refreshing mountain air, savor meals made with fresh farm ingredients, and embark on unforgettable adventures like fishing, hiking, and wagon rides. Families can enjoy various activities, including outings tailored for teenagers and camps designed for kids.

Reader Score: 96.13