Whether it's overlooking a beach, set in the middle of a desert, across the water from a lit-up metropolis, or tucked away on a remote and picturesque hillside somewhere, there's nothing quite like a hotel with amazing views. This is why we've trekked from coast to coast seeking out the best views this country has to offer (tough work, but someone's got to do it). Here are 11 of our favorite spots with breathtaking vistas.
The St. Regis Princeville is rumored to be Hawaii's most impressive beach resort...and after our stay here, we wholeheartedly concur; the rumor is true. Situated on Kauai's northern coast, the St. Regis overlooks stunning Hanalei Bay. Not only is it -- and its view -- simply gorgeous, but this hotel also has several restaurants, an incredible pool, and a lovely beach with calm waters and excellent snorkeling.
Perched atop ritzy Nob Hill, the iconic Fairmont San Francisco has been providing its guests with some of the city's best vistas since 1907. Thanks to the Fairmont's grand decor, guests will be transported to another era as they sumptuously bask in the beauty of the lobby's marble staircase, neoclassical columns, sky-high vaulted ceilings, and gold leaf detailing. The real beauty, however, lies in the hotel's Tower Building, where many rooms offer incredible views of the city and San Francisco Bay.
It's not hard to see why Montelucia Resort & Spa is often ranked as one of Arizona's best resorts. The Spanish villa-style property has incredible amenities, like two heated pools, a 31,000-square-foot spa, and several upscale eateries. Plus, the hotel's unparalleled views of Camelback Mountain make it an absolutely stunning place to stay.
With sweeping hillside views, the rustic Bernardus Lodge is a luxurious option for those seeking a quiet getaway in Monterey County. Rooms are spacious, yet cozy, with stone fireplaces, plush bedding, and private patios (most with stunning views). The on-site vineyard and winery produces the lodge's very own wine, which just so happens to be served at the hotel's award-winning restaurant, Marinus.
Set upon tiny Duck Key, the village-like Hawks Cay Resort is a great options for families seeking a quiet getaway. The hotel features lovely ocean views in a tranquil,laid-back atmosphere. Rooms range from standard doubles to large, beautifully decorated villas with fully equipped kitchens and multiple bedrooms. The 85-slip marina allows for many guests to arrive by boat, adding to the property's feeling of exclusivity.
During the winter, Park City's ultra-luxe Deer Valley offers the best of both worlds: It has the glitz and glam that's often associated with ski destinations like Aspen, coupled with Utah's infamously amazing skiing conditions. In the summer months, it abounds with outdoor activity and hosts a popular music festival. But no matter what time of year, Deer Valley might just be one of the most beautiful places on earth. And the views from the Montage Deer Valley certainly do not disappoint. The gorgeous mountain views can be spotted from the hotel's decadent guest rooms as well as its luxurious spa.
The Orchards Inn of Sedona proves that stunning views don't have to come with shocking price tags. The Orchards Inn has some of the most incredible views of the red rocks and Oak Creek Canyon that Sedona has to offer, and all rooms have private balconies or patios for undisturbed gazing. With its awesome uptown location -- close to great shopping and dining -- and its fantastic vistas, The Orchards Inn of Sedona offers much of the beauty of L'Auberge for prices that are often more similar to those found at a more budget-friendly property.
The secret's out: The best views of New York can be found...in New Jersey! Directly across the Hudson River from Manhattan, Hoboken is a small city in northern New Jersey where stunning views of NYC seem to be around every corner, and the W Hoboken has some of the best. The W is a hip hotel with ultra-modern finishes and large standard rooms. Though Hoboken doesn't have the same all-night nightlife, world-renowned shopping and dining, or rich cultural history as New York, getting into the city is easy thanks to the ferry and subway systems.
Known for its stunning scenery in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, Yosemite National Park is not only a popular tourist destination, but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Ahwahnee is home to some of the most impressive views in the park (you can see the summits of El Capitan and Half Dome from the hotel grounds), and is also centrally located within Yosemite. Be sure to book your trip well in advance, as rooms tend to fill up quickly in the high season.
Sprawled atop a cliff in the northeastern town of Fajarado, Las Casitas Village is an excellent choice for travelers seeking beautiful views in Puerto Rico. The casitas have a little more space than average hotel rooms, as most have small kitchens and living rooms. Grounds are lush and well maintained, and the grand infinity pool provides guests with unspoiled views of the sea.
With its stunning waterfront location in downtown Seattle, it's no wonder that the Four Seasons has some of the best views around. Luxurious, modern rooms have large windows that frame many fantastic vantage points, but the best spot for jaw-dropping vistas is the rooftop infinity pool. From their poolside lounge chair, guests can see the glimmering Puget Sound beneath and the white capped Olympic mountains in the distance.