Summer is here and if you didn’t plan ahead and pre-book a beach trip, never fear! With over 95,000 miles of coastline in the U.S., sometimes the perfect summer escape is just a quick drive away. From the always-sunny shorelines of Florida to the gems of the Northeast and Midwest, these Hilton properties are sure to satisfy last-minute planners looking to dig their toes in the sand.
Clearwater Beach, Florida
Just outside of the hustle and bustle of Tampa lies the well-named destination of Clearwater Beach. Nestled on the coastline between three major urban hubs – Tampa, Clearwater and St. Petersburg – and under three hours from Orlando, last-minute travelers can experience the stunning white-sand beaches and crystal blue waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Sitting on 10 acres of beach property, Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa is just steps away from the fun and games at Pier 60 and a mile from the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, home to playful dolphins and friendly sea turtles. For the full resort experience, relax at the hotel’s beachside private cabanas or beach tiki bar, and let the hotel help arrange snorkeling, deep-sea fishing trips or sunset cruises to round out your vacation.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
The southeastern vacation gem Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a great last-minute destination for every type of traveler, especially those driving in from bustling cities like Atlanta, the District of Columbia and Raleigh, North Carolina. Let Myrtle Beach’s slow pace settle in as you sample from over 90 stunning golf courses, lounge anywhere on 60 miles of uninterrupted beaches, indulge in water sports and deep sea fishing, or shop until you drop at charming boutiques and vast outlet malls. The kids will also love the last-minute voyage, with amusement parks, water parks, mini-golf courses and aquariums to explore. You’ll find water parks, amusements, beachfront dining and more at the sprawling and completely renovated Kingston Resorts, home to Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort.
Fenwick Island, Delaware
Within driving distance from Mid-Atlantic and northeastern cities, Fenwick Island is a perfect last-minute escape for those seeking a classic beach experience with a historical backdrop. Travelers can explore Delaware’s oldest lighthouse (constructed in 1859), relax on the sandy shores of Fenwick State Park, kayak through the Little Assawoman Bay and more. Located in the heart of Fenwick Island is Fenwick Shores, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, where guests can take to the roof for views of the island from a heated outdoor pool with poolside dining.
Madison, Connecticut
For the New Englander in need of a last-minute tranquil backyard escape, look no further than Madison, Connecticut, a beachside gem overlooking the Long Island Sound. Located 40 miles from Hartford and just over two hours from Boston and New York, this beachside town is home to Hammonasset Beach State Park and nature excursions like walking trails at Meigs Point Nature Center and bike adventures at Rockland Preserve. With its own private beach featuring summertime open-air concerts, stay at Madison Beach Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton and get pampered at the Sounds of the Sea Spa before topping off a night with alfresco dining and breathtaking views at its Sound-facing restaurant. New this summer is its Captains’ Quarters Residence, a perfect option for weeklong beach stays with nearly 2,000 square feet of residence-style accommodations featuring two bedrooms, two bathrooms, an open kitchen well-appointed with Viking appliances, a dining room for six, an executive workspace and a laundry area.
Holland, Michigan
When it comes to great summer towns, Holland, Michigan, is right up there. Located on the shore of not one but two lakes, Holland integrates century-old Midwestern charm with its Dutch Roots, providing a quaint getaway for Midwesterners seeking a last-minute waterfront destination. Home to the historical “Big Red” lighthouse, this beautiful landmark can be enjoyed from Holland State Park’s boardwalk and Mt. Pisgah, where the dune staircase takes spectators 157 feet above sea level. In the heart of downtown Holland, book a stay at Tulyp, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, just minutes from the famous Windmill Island Gardens, home to the only authentic working Dutch windmill in the U.S., the more than 250-year-old De Zwaan.
