The Best Luxury Vacation Spots in the US

Luxury travel in the US isn’t defined by flash or formality. It’s about space, setting, and the freedom to shape your days exactly how you want them. A mountain home with direct trail access. A coastal retreat where the afternoon revolves around tide and light. A desert escape where architecture and landscape carry equal weight.

This guide highlights luxury vacation rentals in the US and destinations that consistently deliver that quieter, more refined kind of luxury. These are places where design, privacy, and location matter more than spectacle – and where staying well elevates the entire trip. No seasonality required, no forced itineraries. Just destinations that reward travelers who value comfort, atmosphere, and a strong sense of place.

East Hampton, New York

East Hampton has long been associated with understated East Coast luxury. Wide beaches, historic homes, and a rhythm that favors long lunches and slow evenings define the experience. Unlike flashier resort towns, the appeal here is restraint – elegant without being performative.

Beyond the shoreline, East Hampton offers galleries, local farms, and a dining scene that emphasises seasonal and ingredient-driven cuisine. It’s a destination that works just as well for a quiet week indoors as it does for social summer weekends.

Things to do

• Walk the beaches early in the morning

• Visit local art galleries and studios

• Dine at chef-led restaurants using local produce

• Bike through residential lanes and farmland

• Watch the sunset near Georgica Pond

Travel tips

• Mornings are the calmest time on the beach

• Dining reservations matter year-round

• A car makes exploring easier

• Weekdays feel more residential

Where to stay near East Hampton

• Wander East Hampton Waterfront – A luxurious beachfront escape offering unparalleled ocean views and direct access to the pristine sands. Indulge in the ultimate Hamptons experience with an outdoor pool perfect for refreshing dips after sun-drenched days at the beach.

• Wander East Hampton Tides – This modern estate embodies elegance and sophistication, featuring sleek, contemporary lines and high-end finishes that cater to the most discerning guests. Outside, the meticulously landscaped yard offers a private paradise with a brand new pool and a hot tub heated to a soothing 103 degrees.

• Wander East Hampton – This luxurious estate features a heated pool, multiple outdoor lounge areas, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Inside, enjoy a chic, light-filled interior with a two-story living room, state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen, formal dining room, and cozy fireplaces.

Park City, Utah

Park City combines mountain scenery with an unusually refined town core. World-class skiing draws winter travelers, but the town’s appeal extends well beyond snow season. Summer brings cool air, trail access, and outdoor dining with mountain views.

Luxury here is about proximity – ski lifts, hiking trails, and dining all within minutes – paired with privacy once you’re back indoors.

Things to do

• Ski-in, ski-out winter days

• Explore Main Street galleries and restaurants

• Hike or bike alpine trails in summer

• Book a private spa or wellness session

• Take scenic drives through the Wasatch Range

Travel tips

• Elevation affects first-day energy levels

• Shoulder seasons are quieter and relaxed

• Dining books up during ski weekends

• Weather shifts quickly in the mountains

Where to stay near Park City

Wander’s luxury vacation rentals in Park City are the perfect setting for romantic retreats, family escapes, and laid-back luxury getaways:

• Wander Park City Slopes – Experience modern luxury and Alpine charm with this ski-in/ski-out vacation rental, featuring a spacious living area, four fireplaces throughout, a private hot tub, BBQ grill, and access to a shared seasonal pool.

• Wander Park City Lighthouse – A private sanctuary nestled in the mountains, offering a sense of seclusion that makes every moment feel like an escape. Inside, the expansive living areas with floor-to-ceiling windows bring the outdoors in, yet preserve an intimate, retreat-like atmosphere.

• Wander Park City Castle – A luxury ski-in/ski-out estate offering an unforgettable mountain retreat. Imagine evenings spent relaxing in the luxurious hot tub after a day on the slopes, followed by movie nights in your private theater, complete with plush seating and state-of-the-art sound.

Big Sky, Montana

Big Sky is defined by scale. Wide-open land, dramatic peaks, and a sense of isolation that feels increasingly rare. Luxury here isn’t about excess – it’s about having space, silence, and direct access to the outdoors.

This is a destination for travelers who want nature to dominate the experience, with comfort and design quietly supporting it in the background.

Things to do

• Ski expansive, uncrowded terrain

• Fly fish in nearby rivers

• Explore Yellowstone’s quieter entrances

• Take guided wildlife tours

• Spend evenings outdoors under open skies

Travel tips

• Distances between services are large

• Winter conditions can change quickly

• Guided experiences add real value

• Stock up before settling in

Where to stay near Big Sky

Wander’s luxury vacation rentals in Big Sky bring 5-star consistency to the high country:

•  Wander Big Sky Summit – A luxurious ski chalet with unique amenities including ski access via nearby trails, a private hot tub for post-slope relaxation, and multiple fireplaces.

• Wander Big Sky Basin – A luxury mountain home in Big Sky, Montana, and an ideal retreat for year-round adventures. With breathtaking mountain views from every room, a private hot tub, a gym, and a range of amenities, this home is your gateway to memorable Big Sky adventures.

• Wander Big Sky Basecamp – Wander Big Sky Basecamp is a private 23-acre retreat nestled beside a gentle creek and bordered by National Forest, offering direct access to the breathtaking Beehive Basin Trail for hiking in summer and backcountry skiing in winter.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head delivers a polished coastal experience without feeling overly commercial. Carefully planned neighborhoods, protected beaches, and world-class golf courses give it a refined, unhurried atmosphere.

It’s particularly appealing for travelers who appreciate outdoor activity paired with comfort – biking, boating, and beach time balanced by strong dining and quiet evenings.

Things to do

• Bike miles of dedicated coastal paths

• Play oceanfront golf courses

• Kayak through tidal creeks

• Dine on Lowcountry seafood

• Watch the sunset from the beach

Travel tips

• Bikes are often easier than cars

• Summer stays warm but breezy

• Tides affect boating schedules

• Early mornings are peaceful

Where to stay near Hilton Head Island

• Wander Hilton Head Mirage – An oceanfront haven designed for both relaxation and play. The expansive pool deck offers plenty of space for dining, lounging, and swimming, with a private boardwalk that takes you straight to the sand.

• Wander Hilton Head Sapphire – A beachfront sanctuary with direct access to soft sands and endless ocean views. This luxurious retreat features a private outdoor pool for sun-soaked swims, a beautifully designed BBQ area for al fresco dining, and an in-home elevator for added comfort and convenience.

• Wander Hilton Head Sea – A private boardwalk leads you directly to the beach for sun-soaked days by the ocean, while the outdoor pool offers the perfect place to cool off and unwind. Inside, a vibrant game room filled with arcade games, ping pong, pool, skee-ball, basketball hoops, and more creates endless entertainment for all ages.

Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

Along Florida’s 30A corridor, Santa Rosa Beach stands out for its balance of design and ease. White-sand beaches meet architecturally thoughtful homes, and the overall pace feels curated rather than chaotic.

Luxury here shows up in details: walkable beach access, calm water, and evenings shaped around outdoor dining and conversation.

Things to do

• Spend full days on the beach

• Walk or bike between coastal communities

• Visit local art galleries

• Dine at refined but relaxed restaurants

• Take sunset paddleboard outings

Travel tips

• Beaches are calmest early and late

• Summer afternoons can be hot

• Parking is limited near beach access

• Shoulder seasons feel especially refined

Where to stay near Santa Rosa Beach

Wander’s luxury vacation rentals in Santa Rosa Beach place you steps from 30A’s most beautiful beaches, with bright and airy interiors:

• Wander Santa Rosa Beach Tides – A beautifully updated two-story condo in WaterColor, just steps from the Gulf of Mexico and the WaterColor Beach Club. This stylish retreat features new flooring, high-end furnishings, and a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops and Wolf appliances.

• Wander Santa Rosa Beach Gulf – A luxurious beachfront escape offering unparalleled access to the pristine Gulf Coast. Wake up to breathtaking ocean views from this exquisite property, and spend your days basking in the sun by the sparkling outdoor pool or grilling up a feast at the convenient BBQ area.

• Wander Santa Rosa Pearl – A stunning retreat situated directly on Oyster Lake, and just a block from Dune Allen Beach. This haven features a heated pool, hot tub, 6-seater golf cart, and 6 beach cruiser bikes.

Marco Island, Florida

Marco Island offers a softer version of Florida luxury. Gulf waters stay calm, beaches stretch wide, and the overall atmosphere leans residential rather than resort-heavy.

It’s ideal for travelers who want warmth, water, and privacy without crowds – especially those who value outdoor living and time on the water.

Things to do

• Walk expansive Gulf beaches

• Take private boat excursions

• Explore nearby Ten Thousand Islands

• Enjoy sunset dinners overlooking the water

• Spend quiet afternoons poolside

Travel tips

• Gulf sunsets are a daily ritual

• Winter is peak season

• Boating is central to the experience

• Restaurants close earlier than in big cities

Where to stay near Marco Island

Wander’s luxury vacation rentals in Marco Island put you close to pristine beaches, waterfront dining, and the natural beauty of the Ten Thousand Islands:

• Wander Marco Horizon – This peaceful oasis is designed for unforgettable vacations, with a private pool and spa, a spacious outdoor lanai, and a fully equipped chef’s kitchen.

• Wander Marco Vista – Experience the epitome of luxury and coastal charm at this serene waterfront retreat. The home offers a seamless blend of modern design and relaxed elegance, featuring floor-to-ceiling recessed sliding doors that open to expansive outdoor living spaces.

• Wander Marco Zephyr – A luxurious waterfront retreat offering an unparalleled escape on Marco Island. Indulge in the ultimate relaxation with a private hot tub, perfect for unwinding after a day spent basking in the Florida sunshine.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona’s red rock landscape creates an immediate sense of arrival. The luxury here is visual and experiential – dramatic scenery, wellness-focused experiences, and architecture designed to frame the outdoors.

It’s a destination that attracts travelers looking for restoration as much as exploration.

Things to do

• Hike red rock trails at sunrise

• Book private yoga or wellness sessions

• Explore art galleries and local shops

• Take scenic jeep tours

• Dine with canyon views

Travel tips

• Trails are busiest mid-morning

• Summer afternoons are hot

• Early starts improve every experience

• Respect trail and land regulations

Expert tip on visiting Sedona’s natural landscapes

Plan hikes and outdoor activities early in the day, then reserve afternoons for indoor wellness or scenic drives. Sedona’s light is strongest in the morning, and the contrast makes the landscape feel more dramatic – and far less crowded.

Where to stay near Sedona

Wander’s luxury vacation rentals in Sedona include sleek hillside estates and contemporary sanctuaries designed to frame red rock panoramas:

• Wander Sedona Redrocks – A desert retreat where modern comfort meets the breathtaking beauty of Arizona’s red rock landscape. After a day of hiking, biking, or simply exploring Sedona’s wonders, you can return to relax in the hot tub, stretch out in the yoga corner, or gather around the glowing fire pit as the stars begin to fill the night sky.

• Wander Sedona Panorama – A luxurious retreat offering unparalleled views of the stunning Sedona desert landscape. This exceptional property boasts a sparkling outdoor pool and a soothing hot tub, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring the area's natural beauty.

• Wander Sedona Seven Canyons – This private end-unit townhome merges the sophistication of a high-end resort with the intimacy of a private residence. As a guest, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to Seven Canyons Golf Club, a private members-only enclave with a championship Tom Weiskopf–designed course.

How to plan the perfect luxury getaway in the US

The best luxury vacation rentals in the US and their locations share a common thread: they prioritize experience over excess. Whether that means uninterrupted coastal views, alpine air, or desert silence, these destinations offer space to slow down and settle in.

Luxury travel works best when the destination and the stay support each other – when comfort feels intuitive, and the setting does the heavy lifting. Choosing the right place isn’t about doing more; it’s about being exactly where you want to be.