Beach hotels to match every mood

On California’s Central Coast, Cambria is less well-known than its neighbors—Big Sur lies north, Santa Barbara to the south—but that suits locals and in-the-know visitors perfectly.

Guests at White Water are minutes from Moonstone Beach, a stellar spot for surfing, whale sightings or just strolling the boardwalk—the uninterrupted sunset views are spellbinding. Nearby, there are cute oyster bars and hundreds of wineries. Back on property, Scandi-style interiors, Aesop toiletries and outdoor soaking tubs affirm White Water team’s sophisticated taste, though the vibe is reliably warm, welcoming and unfussy. 

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Sun, sea and chic: White Water, Cambria

Take a closer look around this California gem

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Set on a tranquil 27-acre estate with its own private white-sand beach, Cheeca on Islamorada in the Keys has always been a haven for families. At the seasonal Camp Cheeca kids’ club, younger guests are kept happy with everything from scavenger hunts and shuffleboard to coconut bowling.

The resort’s two child-friendly oceanfront pools and a packed activity program—offering everything from volleyball to snorkeling North America’s only barrier reef system—provide ample opportunities for family bonding. What’s more, pet-friendly accommodations mean Cheeca really does cater to the entire family, while its practical-but-chic Casitas include washers, dryers and kitchen facilities.

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Just a 20-minute drive from the hubbub of downtown Tulum, stays at the airy shorefront boutique O Tulum are soundtracked by the murmur of the Caribbean Sea. Days at this adults-only property tend to be laid-back and agreeably lazy, often involving little more exertion than reading by the pool or enjoying languid lunches—perhaps punchy chile shrimp tacos or a nourishing mango ceviche.

But there’s much to explore in the vicinity, from the low-key and lovely Soliman Bay Beach to the inviting waters of the mangrove-lined Cenote Manati and Parque Nacional Tulum, whose clifftop Mayan ruins are evocative relics of this region’s fascinating history. 

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John O’Ceallaigh

Writer

John O’Ceallaigh is a luxury travel editor, and journalist with The Telegraph, National Geographic Traveler and many more. He is the founder of LUTE travel consultancy.