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Summer is a time for relaxation, adventure, and creating unforgettable memories with loved ones. It's the season when families come together, festivals fill the streets, and people embark on epic road trips. Choosing the perfect summer vacation destination can be overwhelming, with countless options ranging from cosmopolitan cities to pristine beaches and everything in between. But fear not, because we've curated a list of the best summer resorts that offer a quintessential summer experience, combining luxury, fun, and adventure. So grab your sunscreen and get ready for an unforgettable vacation!

1. Mohonk Mountain House: A Fairy-Tale Escape

Located just 90 miles outside of New York City, Mohonk Mountain House is a resort that offers a magical escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This fairy-tale castle, originally built in 1869, is surrounded by 40,000 acres of pristine forest. With a wide range of activities for the whole family, from canoeing and swimming in Lake Mohonk to archery and ax throwing, there's something for everyone. You can also enjoy hiking, horseback riding, outdoor movies, campfires, and concerts. Plus, a stay at Mohonk includes three meals a day, afternoon tea, and cookies, making it a great value for your summer vacation.

How to book: Mohonk Mountain House is a luxury resort, with rates starting at more than $1,000 per night for two guests. However, considering the included meals and activities, it's well worth the price.

2. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa: Texas Charm at its Finest

If you're looking for a summer getaway in the Lone Star State, look no further than Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa. Located just outside of Austin in the Texas Hill Country, this resort offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. You can beat the heat by floating around the winding lazy river, zipping down waterslides, or enjoying the adults-only pool. The resort also offers activities like golfing, horseback riding, zip lining, archery, fishing, and trap shooting. With plenty of dining options, including farm-to-table cuisine and an ice cream saloon, you won't go hungry during your stay.

How to book: As a Category 5 World of Hyatt resort, you can book a room at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa for 17,000 to 23,000 points per night. Cash rates start at $388 per night.

3. Big Cedar Lodge: Nature's Playground in the Ozark Mountains

For a summer vacation surrounded by the beauty of the Missouri Ozark Mountains, Big Cedar Lodge is the perfect choice. Set near the 10,000-acre Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, this sprawling resort offers a wide range of activities for nature enthusiasts. During the summer season, guests can enjoy mini-golf tournaments, '80s-themed concerts, and family campfires. There's also sand volleyball, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming in the pools or lazy river. If that's not enough, you can rent a boat to cruise around the lakes or sign up for wakeboarding lessons. With a variety of accommodations, from glamping tents to full-size cabins, there's something for every budget.

How to book: Rates at Big Cedar Lodge vary depending on the type of accommodation. You can find cash rates as low as $221 per day for off-property "camp huts" and as high as $1,000 per night for large cabins.

4. Grand Hotel: A Summer Retreat on Mackinac Island

For a unique summer resort experience, head to Mackinac Island in Michigan and stay at the iconic Grand Hotel. Known as "America's Summer Place," this historic hotel offers a charming and picturesque getaway. With its eclectic rooms, lush gardens, and horse-drawn carriages, the Grand Hotel transports you to a bygone era. You can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, tennis, and golf. The hotel also features a new pool and pool house, a mini-golf course, a nature center, and even BMX trails. And with 16 on-site restaurants, you'll never go hungry during your stay.

How to book: Summer rates at the Grand Hotel start at around $428 per night, but they can vary throughout the season.

5. Omni Mount Washington Resort: Outdoor Adventures in New Hampshire

If you're seeking outdoor adventures this summer, look no further than the Omni Mount Washington Resort in New Hampshire. Surrounded by 800,000 acres of the White Mountain National Forest, this resort offers a wide range of activities for nature lovers. You can go fly-fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and even try New England's longest zip line. The resort also features an 18-hole golf course and the first mountain-climbing cog railway in the world. With breathtaking views and endless opportunities for adventure, it's the perfect destination for an active summer vacation.

How to book: Starting cash rates for rooms at the Omni Mount Washington Resort this summer range from $300 to $350 per night.

6. Bishop's Lodge: Luxury and Adventure in Santa Fe, New Mexico

For a luxurious summer escape with a Southwest twist, Bishop's Lodge in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is the perfect choice. This Auberge-affiliated hotel offers a range of activities for both adults and kids. You can take a wild rafting ride on the Rio Grande, go mountain biking, or learn the art of fly-fishing. For a calmer experience, sign up for a chocolate tasting class, an alfresco art class, or a mindfulness session in the fresh air. The resort also offers a kids club with skill-building activities, allowing children to explore the stunning surroundings and ignite their imaginations.

How to book: Room rates at Bishop's Lodge average $649 per night when booked directly.

7. JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa: Embrace Your Inner Cowboy in Texas

If you've ever dreamed of being a cowboy, JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa in Sonora, Texas, can make that dream a reality. This elegant and intimate resort is set on a 13,000-acre ranch and offers immersive activities that showcase the cowboy way of life. You can learn how to ride a horse, pig out at a traditional cowboy cookout, take a trail ride on a bike, and cool off in the infinity pool. Off the resort grounds, you can explore the otherworldly Sonora Caverns. With only 16 rooms and 16 cabins, JL Bar Ranch offers a truly unique and personalized summer experience.

How to book: Rates for rooms at JL Bar Ranch tend to average around $400 per night, with a two-night minimum stay required.

8. Carmel Valley Ranch: Luxury and Adventure in California

Set on 500 acres in Carmel Valley, California, Carmel Valley Ranch is an all-suite resort that offers a perfect blend of luxury and adventure. With a wide range of activities, there's something for everyone in the family. You can enjoy tennis, golf, beekeeping, falconry, and even meet the resort's ranch animals. The resort also offers access to the local wine region and provides opportunities for relaxation around fire pits for s'mores. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly getaway or an adults-only retreat, Carmel Valley Ranch has it all.

How to book: As part of Hyatt's Unbound Collection, you can book a stay at Carmel Valley Ranch using World of Hyatt points or cash. Award nights start at 25,000 to 35,000 points, while cash rates start around $800 per night.

With these incredible summer resorts, you can create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're seeking adventure in the mountains, relaxation by the pool, or a mix of both, there's a perfect summer vacation destination for you. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on the ultimate summer getaway. Don't forget the sunscreen and prepare for a summer filled with fun, luxury, and adventure!

Additional Information:

  • Each resort offers a unique range of activities for the whole family to enjoy.
  • Prices and availability may vary, so it's best to book in advance.
  • Consider joining loyalty programs or using points to save on your summer resort stay.
  • Don't forget to check the resort's website or contact the property directly for the most up-to-date information and special summer offers.