With Spring Break now behind us, we are looking forward to our next adventure! There are so many amazing new boutique hotels and resort properties that have opened since the COVID-19 pandemic largely shut down the tourism industry. Time for wanderlust in full swing! Pack up your favorite luggage and grab that resort wear! We’ve rounded up six of the newest hotel openings and some fun tips for each destination:
Hotel Emeline – Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a favorite city and repeat destination for Lolli and me. This beautiful coastal city is full of historic architecture, pastel façades, quaint cobblestone streets, and of course, plenty of southern hospitality (including some of the best restaurants)! There are fun things to do for the whole family, and the downtown is particularly accessible and walkable.
In the heart of Charleston lies the newly opened Hotel Emeline whose history dates back to the turn of the century. This historic hotel has been reimagined into a gorgeous modern property with elements of Charleston charm but adding contemporary luxuries. Their lobby boasts beautiful sitting areas and each room comes equipped with a record player and vinyls from their extensive collection to enjoy during your stay. There are designer touches throughout the property, making it a “must see,” whether or not you get a room there!
Stay in one of their stunning guest rooms or opt for a more spacious option, at Hank’s Loft – a three bedroom 3.5 bath apartment adjacent to the hotel. It’s perfect for a longer stay or a larger group/family! Dine on their outdoor patio under the stars at Frannie & The Fox or grab a latte at Clerks Coffee Company before hitting the town. They even offer complimentary bikes to ride over to the beach!
White Elephant – Palm Beach, Florida
Palm Beach, Florida is the ultimate summer hot spot known for its gorgeous white sand beaches, premier shopping and luxury accommodations – there’s something for everyone! Don’t forget beach gear and toys for the little ones – they may never want to leave the sand.
White Elephant Palm Beach is one of the newest properties to debut in Palm Beach, and its contemporary Mediterranean design makes it feel ultra luxurious. A boutique hotel with only 13 rooms and 19 suites, it is a widely anticipated oasis from the hustle and bustle of the busy shopping streets and nearby beaches. While we have always enjoyed The Breakers as our go-to Florida resort, this boutique option is now top of the list to try!
From complimentary beach set ups to a fleet of cars to take you wherever you want to go, this property has it all! They even have a ton of fun extras for the kiddos from in-room teepee camping to “movie nights” where they’ll bring popcorn and candy to your room! Their restaurant, Lola 41 Palm Beach, is the perfect place to unwind poolside after a long day of fun in the sun and offers everything from morning coffee to afternoon wine and cheese receptions to dinner under the palm trees!
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai – Hawaii
Nothing says vacation like a tropical trip to Hawaii! If you’re looking for the ultimate escape then look no further. You’ll be immersed in paradise all without having to leave the country!
When you think of the perfect beach vacation, the newly remodeled Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on the big island comes to mind. This stunning property surrounded by both white sand beaches and black lava formations give this resort a unique and beautiful landscape. With 5 star accommodations and tons of activities, you’ll feel like you’ve woken up in paradise here.
One of the coolest features of this hotel is the all new King’s Pond – a 1.8 million gallon swimmable aquarium featuring over 4,000 tropical fish right on property! There are several restaurants on-site, and dining options include an omakase sushi experience, dinner under the stars, cooking classes, wine tasting and more. There’s no need to leave the premises!
The Edgartown Inn – Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
If you’re looking for a classic New England escape, Martha’s Vineyard is as good as it gets! Just 7 miles off the coast of Massachusetts (fly into Boston), it’s accessible by ferry and a feels like a true escape from the “real world.” We spend July on the vineyard, but while our home is under renovations there, we’ve learned about the local hotels and accommodations throughout the island. We shared some highlights of our summer vacation on Martha’s Vineyard a few years ago, and we hope you’ll come enjoy this magical place, too!
Edgartown Inn opened as part of the Lark Hotels Edgartown Collection in 2020 right in the heart of historic Edgartown. Each of the four properties are situated just blocks from each other and offer boutique stays. Complete with elegant coastal decor, Edgartown Inn will make you feel right at home!
One of the best ways to see the island is by bike! You can also use the local transportation system or rent a car on island as well. Head north to see the iconic Gingerbread Cottages in Oak Bluffs, enjoy a sunset and lobster roll at Menemsha beach, or head to one of the classic Edgartown eateries like Atlantic – a fish and chop house known for their steamed lobster and swordfish steaks. And don’t forget dessert! Mad Martha’s is the perfect stop after a day at the beach for some delicious frozen treats (we love their rootbeer float!)!
Hotel Xcaret Arte – Riviera Maya, Mexico
The Riviera Maya in Mexico combines the beauty of the Caribbean with the rich culture of Mexico making this an incredible summer destination for the whole family, especially if you like an active vacation.
Shop Riviera Maya looks
We just got back from staying at the beautiful Hotel Xcaret Mexico hotel in Playa del Carmen, and we already can’t wait to go back! In 2021, they added an adults-only property Hotel Xcaret Arte to their collection, and it is truly stunning. The suites make you feel like you’re sleeping in the treetops of the jungle and some even have private access to the hotel pools right out your door. And although you need a passport, these resorts are an easy flight to Cancun.
Take a paddle board around the canals of the property, get a relaxing treatment at their spa carved out of natural stone, or dine at one of their 9 restaurants on site – you’ll never get bored! The region is also known for its natural riches. It’s worth taking an excursion to swim in one of the underground cenotes and grottos! For those history buffs, an excursion to the ancient Mayan ruins is definitely a must. There’s something for everyone here!
Rosewood Le Guanahani – St. Barts
St. Barts is a luxurious, French speaking Caribbean island known for its posh accommodations and pristine beaches. The island boasts a collection of art galleries, designer boutiques and 14 beaches throughout the enclave. It’s always been on my bucket list, since je parle français un peu!
With just 66 rooms, this property is the perfect getaway, and we’ve come to know and trust the stamp of luxury that is Rosewood Hotels. Opt for an ocean-view room or a suite with its own private plunge pool! The beach rooms resemble bright, tiny cottages right on the sand. If you’re looking for amazing dining experiences, this property has it all! Sunday Beach BBQ at the Beach House is not to be missed and their regular menu is described as “Mediterranean-inspired cuisine meets Caribbean energy”…healthy, delicious and fun!
If you are more of a “relax on vacation” type of person, you can find the ultimate R&R poolside at one of the two pools or enjoy a massage at their amazing spa! Want to stay more active? The island boasts incredible hikes with absolutely stunning views! For gym goers, there is a five-star fitness center and tennis court on property, too. So many options to please anyone in your travel crew!
Let us know if you visit any of these fabulous new properties! Tag us in your travels on instagram @lolliandme #lolliandmetravels!