Brant Beach, New Jersey
Just steps from the shoreline, Fearless Restaurants’ stylish 22-room boutique hotel makes an ideal home base once the summer crowds thin. Hit the beach during the day, then savor fresh seafood and creative cocktails before ending the evening around the rooftop fire pits overlooking the Atlantic. September rates: Starting at $229. 4401 Long Beach Blvd., Brant Beach, New Jersey, (609) 494-1300.
Courtesy of Dune Fairfield Beach
Fairfield, Connecticut
Set along Connecticut’s Gold Coast, this intimate retreat combines understated coastal design with the charm of a classic New England beach town. Stroll the shoreline, browse Fairfield’s lively downtown or hop aboard a nearby train for an easy day trip to New York City. September rates: Starting at $199. 1160 Reef Road, Fairfield, Connecticut, (203) 256-4985.
Glen Cove, New York
Once the grand estate of New York’s first congresswoman, Ruth Baker Pratt, and later a summer retreat for President Herbert Hoover, this stately Long Island property occupies 55 manicured acres just outside New York City. Spend the afternoon by the bay before returning for a restorative spa treatment and dinner at the on-site restaurant. September rates: Starting at $269. 200 Dosoris Lane, Glen Cove, New York, (646) 518-8771.
Long Branch, New Jersey
In the heart of Pier Village, this contemporary oceanfront resort pairs direct beach access with some of the Jersey Shore’s best dining, shopping and entertainment just outside its doors. Borrow a complimentary beach cruiser to explore Long Branch, or venture to nearby Asbury Park, Red Bank and Sandy Hook. September rates: Starting at $362. 110 Ocean Ave., Long Branch, New Jersey (732) 612-9283.
Courtesy of Kent Island Resort
Stevensville, Maryland
This Chesapeake Bay retreat offers plenty to explore beyond the waterfront. Its 220 acres encompass farmland, wooded trails and private shoreline, with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, biking and boating. Cap off the day with dinner overlooking the water at 18TWENTY Bar & Restaurant. September rates: Starting at $179. 500 Kent Manor Drive, Stevensville, Maryland, (410) 643-5757.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
This sprawling Virginia Beach destination encompasses three distinct properties, offering a choice of historic grandeur, contemporary oceanfront luxury or a spacious all-suite stay. Resort activities continue into fall, with shared amenities that include acclaimed restaurants, a full-service spa, a private beach club and the on-site Tarnished Truth Distillery. September rates: Starting at $185. The Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, 4200 Atlantic Ave., Virginia Beach, (757) 425-8555; Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort, 4201 Atlantic Ave., Virginia Beach, (757) 937-4200; Embassy Suites by Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort, 4101 Atlantic Ave., Virginia Beach, (757) 228-3100.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
As the summer rush slows, Rehoboth settles into a slower, more relaxed rhythm—and this boutique hotel puts it all within easy reach. Just a block from the boardwalk, it’s an ideal base for exploring the town’s acclaimed restaurants, local shops and coastal scenery. A full hot breakfast, a heated indoor saltwater pool and an on-site spa make it easy to extend the relaxation beyond the beach. September rates: Starting at $172. 33 Wilmington Ave., Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, (302) 226-2900.
Montauk, New York
An icon of the Hamptons, this oceanfront resort occupies 2,000 feet of private beach on Montauk’s eastern shore. Its 158 rooms, suites and cottages put the Atlantic front and center, while the acclaimed Seawater Spa—the only thalassotherapy spa of its kind in North America—features ocean-fed saltwater pools and an extensive menu of wellness treatments. September rates: Starting at $945. 290 Old Montauk Hwy., Montauk, New York, (631) 668-2345.
Related: Ocean City Day Trip Guide: 24 Hours in This Jersey Shore Town