The Most Expensive Summer Destinations in the United States

August 1, 2025

Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard, two island destinations located off the southern coast of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, are the most expensive places to stay in the United States this summer, according to a survey by CheapHotels.org.

The survey compared accommodation rates across all U.S. destinations during the month of August 2025. Only hotels or inns rated at least 3 stars and located close to a beach or city center were considered.

With average rates of $621 and $532 per night, respectively, for the least expensive double room, Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard top the rankings. The podium is completed by Montauk, a village situated at the eastern tip of the Long Island peninsula in New York State, with a rate of $512 per night.

With Kennebunkport, Bar Harbor and Portland, three destinations in Maine are found within the Top 10. Huntington Beach is the priciest summer destination in California, ranking as the 9th most expensive, with an average of $351 per night.

Compared to 2023, when the same survey was last conducted, rates in the 20 most expensive destinations are down by about 7%. The biggest increases are recorded in the Californian destinations of Laguna Beach and Santa Barbara, both up by almost 20%. On the other hand, the steepest drops are recorded in Poipu, HI, and Avalon, CA, both down by more than 30%.

The following table shows the 10 most expensive summer destinations in the United States this year. The prices shown reflect the average rate for each destination's cheapest available double room for the period spanning August 1–31, 2025. Rates include all taxes and fees.