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This coastal Massachusetts resort was just named the best waterfront hotel in America, and it's only 90 minutes from Boston

The historic inn offers exceptional Atlantic views and plenty of New England charm.

Gerrish Lopez
Written by
Gerrish Lopez
Time Out Contributor, US
Chatham Bars Inn
Photograph: Courtesy Chatham Bars Inn | Chatham Bars Inn
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If your ideal weekend getaway involves the sounds of crashing waves just beyond your balcony and plenty of water-based activities, USA Today has officially named the best places to relax on the water. The annual 10Best awards presented top-tier waterfront hotels and resorts across the nation, selected by a panel of experts, and readers voted on their favorites. Out of an incredible lineup of coastal retreats, one historic New England gem claimed the crown: Chatham Bars Inn.

Located on Cape Cod in Chatham, Massachusetts—just under a two-hour drive from Boston—Chatham Bars Inn offers an idyllic coastal sanctuary within easy reach of the city. Welcoming guests since 1914, this historic resort captures classic coastal charm across 25 beautifully landscaped acres. Guests can relax along a quarter-mile private beach, soak in panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean or settle into an iconic oceanfront Adirondack chair. The property boasts poolside and beachfront cabanas, charming private cottages, five distinct on-site dining options and easy access to local whale-watching excursions or strolls through town.

Chatham Bars Inn
Photograph: Courtesy Chatham Bars InnChatham Bars Inn

Taking the number two spot is Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida. This resort is a slice of the Florida Riviera offering lavish oceanfront accommodations, three sparkling pools and marine biology youth programs. Rounding out the top three is the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa in Point Clear, Alabama. The 550-acre historic Southern retreat on Mobile Bay features two 18-hole golf courses, a full-service spa and a 36-slip marina.

The rest of the list highlights the incredible variety of America's waterfront destinations, from beachfront locations and lakeside destinations to inns set on rivers and harbors. Check out the full list here and start making plans for your next waterfront getaway.

The 10 best waterfront hotels in the U.S., according to USA Today

  1. Chatham Bars Inn—Chatham, Massachusetts
  2. Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach—Sunny Isles Beach, Florida
  3. Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa—Point Clear, Alabama
  4. Madison Beach Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton—Madison, Connecticut
  5. The Lodge at Bodega Bay—Bodega Bay, California
  6. Eau Resort & Spa—Manalapan, Florida
  7. The Royal Hawaiian—Honolulu, Hawaii
  8. Grand Hotel—Mackinac Island, Michigan
  9. Delamar Greenwich Harbor—Greenwich, Connecticut
  10. Inn at Perry Cabin—St. Michaels, Maryland
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