Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard Crowned Most Expensive Summer Getaways in the U.S.

Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard: The Priciest Summer Destinations

As the summer season kicks into full gear, travelers looking to escape to beautiful destinations should be prepared to open their wallets wide. According to a recent survey by CheapHotels.org, Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard, two stunning islands off the coast of Massachusetts, have emerged as the most expensive summer getaways in the United States for August 2025.

The survey assessed hotel rates across the nation, focusing exclusively on three-star or higher establishments located near beaches or urban centers. Nantucket reigns supreme, boasting an average nightly rate of $621 for the most affordable double room. Following closely behind is Martha's Vineyard at $532. Not to be overlooked, Montauk, located at the eastern tip of New York’s Long Island, clinches third place with an average cost of $512 per night.

Interestingly, the analysis highlights a significant presence of Maine in the upper tier of costly destinations. Popular spots such as Kennebunkport, Bar Harbor, and Portland all secured spots within the Top 10 list. On the West Coast, Huntington Beach is California’s highest-ranked destination, landing at number nine with average rates of $351 per night.

When comparing these figures to those from 2023, the findings reveal that prices across the 20 most expensive destinations have actually decreased by about 7%. In stark contrast, areas such as Laguna Beach and Santa Barbara have experienced steep increases, with hotel rates surging nearly 20%. Conversely, Poipu in Hawaii and Avalon in California have seen considerable declines of over 30%.

Here’s a look at the ten most pricey summer destinations in the United States for 2025, along with their average rates for the cheapest available double rooms from August 1 to 31, including all taxes and fees:

1. Nantucket, MA - $621
2. Martha's Vineyard, MA - $532
3. Montauk, NY - $512
4. Saratoga Springs, NY - $389
5. Burlington, VT - $387
6. Kennebunkport, ME - $387
7. Bar Harbor, ME - $374
8. Provincetown, MA - $373
9. Huntington Beach, CA - $351
10. Portland, ME - $346

If you want to dig a little deeper into the survey findings, you can visit CheapHotels.org for the complete breakdown of summer 2025's hotel prices.

While Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard may be the crown jewels of expensive summer travel this year, these islands offer breathtaking views, rich history, and charming atmospheres that are sure to reward those willing to invest their funds into a memorable escape. Travellers are encouraged to plan ahead and book early to secure the best deals, especially given the rising interest in these picturesque locales.

In summary, as summer vacations approach, those seeking a taste of luxury must be ready to pay a premium for the idyllic retreat that Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard represent. With their soaring hospitality costs, these destinations serve as a reminder of the balance between experience and expenditure in the world of travel.