Beach resorts are the perfect business getaway that doesn’t sacrifice any pleasure. After being indoors, it’s refreshing to head out for a reception and catch a breath of fresh, salty air. Take a stroll along the beach before heading back to your room, where you have a lavish view of the twinkling ocean. It’s idyllic for you, speakers and attendees. We have highlighted nine of the best beach hotels from U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hotels in the USA.
1. Terranea Resort, Rancho Palos Verdes, California
Los Angeles proves to be a strong player in the beach resort game with Terranea Resort topping the list. Located on the bluffs, Terranea Resort is both elegant in its presentation and practical in its accommodations, should you need on-site audiovisual equipment or LCD screens. From the 18,000-square-foot Palos Verdes Grand Ballroom to the 15 breakout rooms and three boardrooms, you’ll have a variety of spaces to choose from that are guaranteed to fit your needs. And, if you’re craving that ocean air, 75,000 sq. ft. of event space is yours for the taking.
2. Faena Miami Beach
Spacious and sleek, Faena Miami Beach is an attendee favorite. The Faena Forum has 43,000 sq. ft. of event space, with five meeting and breakout rooms and a 2,900-square-foot amphitheater. Faena Theater features a lobby level that can hold up to 300 people. Host a reception on the Rooftop Terrace for sweeping views of the ocean. At 2,164 sq. ft., it can hold 60 people.
3. The Cloister at Sea Island, Georgia
If Georgia’s not already on your mind, it should be. More specifically, The Cloister should be. With a total combined space of 7,855 sq. ft., the Cloister ballrooms can fit 500 for a reception or 600 theater-style, while the combined space of Mizner ballrooms can fit a 280-person reception and 500 theater-style within 5,073 sq. ft. Seeking those sunny and sparkling views? Dress up and head to the patios, terraces or garden for a reception.
4. Four Seasons Resort Lanai, Hawaii
Hawaii is a dream destination for planners and attendees alike, so why not host your next event in the Aloha state? Four Seasons Resort Lanai has grand sights that will leave your attendees with a string of wondrous memories. Hold your keynote speech in the 7,552-square-foot ballroom, which can host 420 banquet-style or 940 people theater-style. Host a reception of 800 in the Lu’au Gardens, located right next to the beach.
5. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, South Carolina
When choosing a beach resort, South Carolina probably doesn’t come to mind. But The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort has dazzling beaches, 35,000 sq. ft. of outdoor and indoor meeting space and all the necessary equipment you need to make your event a success. Hold your event in the Grand Oaks Ballroom, which offers 6,050 sq. ft., or take in the ocean at The Sanctuary’s 18,500-square-foot Grand Lawn, which can fit a reception of 750 people or banquet of 500.
6. Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, Florida
If you’re looking for a hotel with the dreamy quality of a beach resort, Florida is the place to be. Acqualina Resort & Spa has everything you’ll need to bring to life a memorable event, from audiovisual equipment to high-speed Internet. With 3,644 sq. ft. of meeting rooms connecting to a terrace offering exquisite sights and sounds of waves crashing, your event will be elevated from in-attendance to must-attend.
7. Ocean House, Watch Hill, Rhode Island
Ocean House is one of the most accommodating venues you’ll find. From catering to transportation to general planning, they have you covered from the beginning to the execution. You’ll find 10,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, which includes soundproofed meeting rooms and a ballroom that can hold up to 250 people. All meeting rooms are guaranteed to have stunning panoramas of the Atlantic or a serene view of Watch Hill Harbor.
8. The Wauwinet, Nantucket, Massachusetts
Beach views are generally thought of as a West-Coast luxury, but the Wauwinet in Massachusetts is proof that oceanic beauty can be found along the Atlantic. Situated on the eastern coast, the Wauwinet is available to rent out in its entirety, with an interior space of 2,700 sq. ft. and a lawn that can host 200 guests. Hosting a smaller meeting? The Sunroom and Topper’s private dining room can combine to hold 45 people, and the outside deck can accommodate 45 seated and 80 standing.
9. Inn by the Sea, Cape Elizabeth, Maine
For a guaranteed spectacular event, book Inn by the Sea. With state-of-the-art technology, including LCD projectors and a high-quality sound system, your event is sure to run smoothly. Head into the Crescent Room for 1,300 sq. ft. of customizable event space, or host a more intimate meeting in the Cove Room, which can seat 12 to 16—just make sure attendees aren’t distracted by the garden and sunset over the sea. Want to take it outside? Up to 150 guests can fit on the lawn underneath a waterproof tent; have a speaker deliver a keynote or host a social hour so attendees can network.
