4 Most Expensive Beach Towns To Travel to This Winter
Written by
Kathryn Jackson
Edited by
Cynthia Measom
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If you’re ready to splurge on a winter getaway, think about planning a special trip with family or friends. It’s the perfect opportunity to make some heartwarming memories that will last a lifetime.
These pricey beach towns provide the perfect destination for a truly unforgettable experience.
Kennebunkport, Maine
- Accommodations: $400 per night
- Transportation: $386 per person roundtrip
- Local restaurants: $50 per person
- Tourist attractions: $50 per person
When you hear the words Kennebunkport, Maine, what comes to mind are the salty air, picturesque lighthouses and seafood — especially the famous Maine lobster — all wrapped up in a town with coastal charm.
For restaurant dining, try thebaked stuffed lobster at Mable’s Lobster Claw, priced at $54 for a 1.25-pound lobster. Choose your lodging at one of the luxury hotels or opt for an oceanfront property. There are several beaches to choose from, including ones with rocky shores or silvery-white sand. Tourist attractions include a Harbor Lights and Sights Cruise for $48 per person or “A Walk Through Time in Kennebunkport” walking tour for $49.99 per person.
Montauk, New York
- Accommodations: $490 per night
- Transportation: $255 per person roundtrip
- Local restaurants: $50 per person
- Tourist attractions: $150 per person
Picture long stretches of powdery-soft, sandy beaches located just minutes away from towns where you can find great restaurants. For fine dining, try theSeafood Bruschetta with mussels, clams, scallops and shrimp at Harvest on Fort Pond, priced at $60. Stay in luxury beach resorts or rent a home if you are planning on bringing more than two people on your trip. For tourist activities, consider the Newport Gilded Age Mansions Trolley Tour for $47 per person or a private beach bonfire for $250 per person.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
- Accommodations: $549 per night
- Transportation: $943 per person roundtrip
- Local restaurants: $50 per person
- Tourist attractions: $350 per person
Nantucket, with its rich whaling history, has over 82 miles of coastline. You’ll have the opportunity to see gray and harbor seals and a variety of migratory birds on your visit.
There are many accommodation options, including gorgeous inns, bed-and-breakfasts or even beachside cottages. Be sure to try one of the famous lobster rolls or enjoy a clambake. Try theone-third-pound Lobster Salad Roll at Sayle’s Seafood, priced at $34.95. Tourist attractions include a private Nantucket Beach fishing activity with a guide for $625 or a historical tour of Nantucket for $57 per person.
Cape May, New Jersey
- Accommodations: $400
- Transportation: $478 per person roundtrip from LAX
- Local restaurants: $50 per person
- Tourist attractions: $40 per person
While visiting one of America’s oldest seaside resorts, enjoy a Victorian home tour or a grand lighthouse tour. Take a whale-and-dolphin-watching cruise for $45 or a Sunset Safari Eco Cruise for $38. Sink your toes into the sand at one of the many Cape May beaches. Besides hotels, your choice of accommodations also includes beach condos and historic homes with guest houses. For fine dining, try the Cape May Scallops for $46 at the Ebbitt Room or the Miso Halibut for $48.
Methodology: All roundtrip airfare and hotel accommodations (priced per night) were sourced from Expedia beginning on Dec. 6, 2024, and returning on Dec. 8, 2024. Local restaurant prices were selected from dining establishments in the area and are estimated averages. Tourist attractions, which are also estimated averages, include various tours and cruises sourced on Tripadvisor.
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