What makes a resort exclusive? Is it the food? The location? Maybe the amenities?
Fact is, the truly exclusive resorts don’t just excel at offering one thing, instead they create an overall experience.
The next few resorts offer the best of everything – leaving guests wanting to visit time and time again.
If you’re planning to treat yourself to the ultimate form of pampering, here are the most exclusive resorts in the U.S. you can book today.
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- 1. Amangiri
- 2. Alila Ventana Big Sur
- 3. Amangani
- 4. Post Ranch Inn
- 5. Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa
- 6. Castle Hot Springs
- 7. Montage Laguna Beach
- 8. Auberge du Soleil
- 9. The Miami Beach EDITION
- 10. Meadowood Napa Valley
- 11. Lake Placid Lodge
- 12. The Setai, Miami Beach
- 13. Nobu Hotel Miami Beach
- 14. The Cloudveil, Autograph Collection
- 15. Under Canvas Moab
- Wrapping Up
- FAQs
1. Amangiri
Amangiri. Image Credit: Amangiri
Sitting between the borders of Utah and Arizona, Amangiri is a stone’s throw away from the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument as well as Lake Powell. The resort’s strategically hidden spot in Canyon Point, promises an idyllic getaway for its discerning guests.
Amangiri offers 34 massive rooms. Each one with a minimalist design and striking views of the desert. The starter accommodations (the Mesa Suites) are over 1,000 square feet. These present impressive views of the mountain and the outside, giving guests a slice of paradise to enjoy through their floor-to-ceiling windows.
Contemporary decor with a neutral, muted color scheme brings the outside in. Sexy bathrooms are built to look like private spas with the soaking tub expertly positioned to make the most Instagram-worthy shots. Higher category rooms like the Desert Pool Suite provide a bed outdoors so you can gaze at the stars each night.
Food and dining are a treat at Amangiri. You get an open-plan dining area overlooking the desert as you savor hearty American dishes.
Because of its proximity to the mountains, thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies can go hiking (there’s a free one each day), horseback riding, or workout classes. Hang out at The Pavilion where you’ll find the iconic pool or indulge yourself with a massage at the spa.
Everything in Amangiri is curated to ensure your stay is luxurious and unforgettable.
Cash rates at this exclusive resort start at $4,790 to $6,750 per night (an average of $5,036).
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2. Alila Ventana Big Sur
Alila Ventana Big Sur. Image Credit: Alila Ventana Big Sur
Alila Ventana Big Sur is one of a handful of Alila resorts in the United States and among the best Alila properties in the world.
Right across the road from the equally popular Post Ranch Inn, Alila Ventana Big Sur is an exclusive adults-only retreat off the popular Pacific Coast Highway.
Surrounded by redwoods, standard rooms echo a rustic vibe complete with hardwood floors and wood panel walls. A kitted minibar complete with niceties like a Nespresso machine, bottled water, coffee, and tea is right by the entrance.
Welcome gifts like a charcuterie plate and a bottle of wine are on hand too. There’s a king bed, oak desk, a fireplace for chilly nights, and a spacious balcony where you can sip morning coffee, are all here.
Bathrooms continue the chic bucolic theme with its cedar wood trimmed mirror and vanity, natural stone floors and shower wall, walk-in shower, private toilet, and toiletries.
The all-inclusive arrangement means all meals and beverages are part of your stay. Choose to dine at the main restaurant, by the pool, or inside your room. An additional surcharge is counted for any alcoholic beverages.
Bask at the onsite Japanese onsen or maybe lounge at the pool. Offering a host of massage options and body treatments, the Alila Spa has outdoor treatment rooms so you can rejuvenate under the redwoods.
In addition, you’ll find a small gym, a game room, as well as an outdoor fireplace for nightly s’mores.
Getting a room here is incredibly difficult to get on points, but if you’re lucky, you can score a free room at this Category 8 hotel starting at 35,000 to 45,000 Hyatt points per night. There’s a 2 or 3-night minimum stay depending on the season.
Cash rates start at $2,239 up to $3,323 per night (average of $2,500).
3. Amangani
Amangani, Jackson Hole. Image Credit: Amangani
Amangani is a luxury retreat found 10 minutes outside of Jackson, Wyoming. Perched on top of a butte, the resort’s claim to fame is its sensational views of the Snake River and the Grand Tetons.
All 40 rooms in Amangani face this marvelous view. Meanwhile, inside, the rooms echo the surroundings – minimalist yet functional. There’s a king bed, beautiful redwood accents, warm lighting, triple-height windows, and faux fur soft accents.
Modern artworks blend in seamlessly with Native American artifacts – creating a mix of Western culture with a homey, pastoral vibe. Natural materials make up the majority of the furniture. Enter the bathroom for a deep soaking tub, an ample dressing room, and a private patio and balcony.
Guests are treated to live music at the lounge during weekends. Farm-to-table vegetables, fresh fish, and sustainable meats deliver a gastronomic experience in their 68-capacity dining room.
There is a heated outdoor infinity pool, a 4-treatment room spa with steam rooms, a 24-hour gym, a boutique shop, and various outdoor activities like horseback riding and hiking. Winter is a popular time for the resort. During this time, there’s a free shuttle to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for those wanting to hit the slopes.
Cash rates start at $1,950 to $2,500 per night (average of $2,100).
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4. Post Ranch Inn
Post Ranch Inn. Image Credit: Post Ranch Inn
Once a haven for celebrities and the elite, Post Ranch Inn is considered one of the most premium boutique properties in the Big Sur area.
This exclusive resort hotel sits above a coastal ridge for uninterrupted views of the Pacific and the nearby Santa Lucia Mountains.
The rooms are all arranged in one line and face either the ocean or the mountains. Eco-conscious design is a priority at Post Ranch Inn. They even built their signature tree houses 9 feet off the ground to prevent damaging the roots of the redwood trees it is sitting on.
Inside the rooms, guests are treated to an ocean view or a forest view. It has beautiful wood-paneled walls, an impressive king bed, and dark earth-tone furnishings. A well-stocked minibar, outdoor shower (and sometimes tub), a private deck, organic linens as well as bath products are on offer.
If the sight of nearby trees isn’t enough to rejuvenate you, indulge in a massage treatment at the spa. A shaman can even be summoned for mental and emotional guidance as well as drum or fire ceremonies.
Hiking and outdoor activities are popular too. There’s a fitness center, outdoor pool, and a kid’s club. Sierra Mar offers a fine dining experience as well as a superb gourmet breakfast for guests.
Cash rates start at $1,970 per night up to $2,486 (average of $2,100).
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5. Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa
Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa. Image Credit: Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa
Counted as among the best in Arizona, the Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa is one of three Miraval Resorts in the country – the other two being Miraval Berkshires and Miraval Austin.
As a dedicated wellness and retreat resort, you can only access Wi-Fi in your room or certain areas. There’s no tipping and alcoholic drinks are minimal.
Every one of the 118 rooms, suites, and private villas is elegantly appointed and paired with a subtle desert theme. Tans, grays, and neutral earth shades with pops of lavender and light blue decorate the room, alongside artwork and Native American fabric.
Each room has a private balcony and patio, a minibar, and other in-room comforts. The bathrooms feature generous marble vanities, walk-in showers, a soaking tub, and double basins.
Miraval Arizona has an assortment of wellness and fitness class for free, extensive spa treatments, hikes, yoga activities, horseback riding, and workshops that guests can participate in.
Being all-inclusive, the meals are part of your payment. Essentially, the resort serves healthy gourmet food. Portions are slightly small but ordering more isn’t an issue. Alcoholic drinks require a surcharge.
You can book a standard room here starting with 40,000 points on off-peak periods to 50,000 World of Hyatt points on peak season per night.
For cash bookings, you can stay here starting with $1,300 to $2,527 per night (an average of $1,750).
6. Castle Hot Springs
Castle Hot Springs, Morristown. Image Credit: Castle Hot Springs
Castle Hot Springs in Morristown emphasizes its seclusion as it sits at the base of the Bradshaw Mountains.
This historic exclusive resort has entertained guests since 1896, playing host to elite members like the Rockefellers and Vanderbilts. After a thorough refurbishment, the resort reopened in 2019 to much fanfare – even becoming Travel + Leisure’s No. 1 Resort in Arizona in 2021.
There are 30 rooms divided between Sky View Cabins and Spring Bungalows. All spaces are chic and modern with outdoor covered decks complete with lounge furniture. Indoor and outdoor gas fireplaces are a staple, complementing the gorgeous wood-beamed ceilings and rugs.
An open-air soaking tub is available in most rooms, with waters directly fed from the hot spring. This delivers an ultra-luxurious soak. Other treats include a comfortable bed, coffee maker, fridge, and robes.
Harvest restaurant provides a local menu made from the freshest produce. This means you never get the freshest meals and a unique menu almost every day.
Of course, you get 24/7 access to the natural hot springs. There are three pools filled with spring water and it’s a treat to enjoy. Various wellness activities are also here including yoga, meditation, and tai chi.
Cash rates start at $1500 to $2,125 per night (average of $1,750).
7. Montage Laguna Beach
Montage Laguna Beach. Image Credit: Montage Laguna Beach
Perfect for a fun and elegant family retreat, the Montage Laguna Beach balances couples wanting a luxurious vacation and families wanting a getaway with kids.
There are three room categories available with each one promising a 280-degree view of the water, beautiful modern design, and an inviting ambiance.
Brass and wood are two staple elements in the room, alongside deep blue shades and soft, cool whites. Covering the beds are fluffy 400-thread count linen and 100% goose-down pillows.
All rooms also have a lavish bathroom and a terrace or balcony so you can be immersed in the view. The square footage is the same for most rooms, 500 square feet, but it’s the view that makes a difference.
Outside, hang out by the 2 swimming pools, chill at any of the 3 restaurants, or head over to Spa Montage. The spa has 21 treatment rooms including a whirlpool tub, steam and sauna rooms as well as a host of wellness classes. When with kids, you’ll be happy to know the resort has an amazing kids and teen program to keep your kiddos busy.
Book a room here in cash by spending $1,151 per night to $1,963 per night, with an average of $1,540.
8. Auberge du Soleil
Auberge du Soleil. Image Credit: Auberge du Soleil
Auberge du Soleil brings a slice of the French countryside right to Napa Valley. This dreamy resort started as a fine dining restaurant that reflected the feel and wine-infused ambiance of Provence.
Over the years, the restaurant expanded, adding accommodations throughout the 33-acre oak and olive-filled property. Deluxe Hillside Rooms serve as starter spaces where you’ll find light wood furniture and accents with soft brown and yellow shades.
Wall-to-wall windows present fantastic views, super king-sized beds, a lovely fireplace, and in-room touches like an iPad, Nespresso machine, and more are all available too.
A sculpted soaking tub is a focal point for the bathroom while walk-in showers ensure a restful bath. Toiletries from Auberge du Soleil Spa await guests too.
The Restaurant at Auberge du Soleil is a popular destination on its own. This fantastic restaurant offers a 3, 4, or 6-course menu for guests. Meals can be paired with an excellent craft beer or any of the bottles on Auberge du Soleil’s 15,000-bottle wine list.
There’s also a fitness center with various classes on offer, a tennis court, a spa, and wedding facilities.
Paid bookings start at $1,296 to $2,822 per night with an average of $1,540.
9. The Miami Beach EDITION
The Miami Beach EDITION. Image Credit: The Miami Beach EDITION
The Miami Beach EDITION is another signature property catering to upscale tastes. Gold-toned columns, beautiful marble, inviting white sofas, plants, and candles create an alluring, relaxing vibe from the moment you step inside the lobby.
True to The EDITION’s aesthetic, clean, slim lines offer a minimalist approach to the rooms. Wood paneled walls go with simple white headboards, and large king beds dressed in white linens with beige throw accents. There’s a sofa, desk, fully stocked minibar, robes, and magazine. A flat-screen TV, BEATS Bluetooth speaker, and Wi-Fi is also in each space.
Matching the bedroom is a grand shower with a rainfall showerhead, custom-made Le Labo toiletries housed in cute black bottles, and marble soaking tubs in certain rooms. In addition, some rooms come with a patio or balcony which looks out to the ocean or the city.
Lounge at THE EDITION’s secluded private beachfront or maybe at the swimming pool. With 9 treatment rooms, the spa is where to go for extra pampering. However, if you want to work out, the 24-hour gym is ideal. There are several restaurants and bars onsite such as the fine dining space, Matador, and the poolside dining, Tropicale.
You can exchange a free stay by using at least 70,000 to 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Cash rates start at $591 to $3,497 per night (average of $1,500).
10. Meadowood Napa Valley
Meadowood Napa Valley. Image Credit: Meadowood Napa Valley
Love wine but also want to feel at home? The Meadowood Napa Valley is an exclusive retreat that echoes a country club vibe.
It’s found at St. Helena and occupies over 250 acres of lush forest hills. Despite being a forest haven, the resort is only 8-minutes away from excellent restaurants, the main town, a historic movie theater, and wonderful wine tastings.
Guests have the option to stay in a cottage, suite, or lodge which are all spread throughout the property. The rooms are modern but with comfortable cottage decor. Neutral creams and beiges are a staple with vaulted ceilings showcasing wood beams. There’s a stone fireplace, traditional furniture, and French doors.
Chill during sunset or at breakfast on the patio or balcony. While the bathrooms also vary between room categories, each one features heated flooring, marble vanities, and Molton Brown toiletries. Spacious showers are available but standard rooms don’t have tubs.
Housekeeping is done twice per day. There’s a pool, a spa, 7 tennis courts, 2 professional croquet lawns where you need to wear white, and a 9-hole walking golf course. Other facilities include a spa, gym, and a prominent restaurant with 1,200 wine options.
Cash rates begin at $1,040 per night to $1,964 per night for a standard room. Average rates are $1,200.
11. Lake Placid Lodge
Lake Placid Lodge. Image Credit: Lake Placid Lodge
Are you looking to trade the bustling city for a quiet, and serene mountain retreat? Pack up your suitcase and head to Lake Placide Lodge.
Once a historic lodge that played host to prominent families like the Vanderbilts, Lake Placid Lodge has continued its tradition of offering a mountain and lakeside retreat for anyone visiting the greater Adirondacks.
Featuring 13 guest rooms and 17 lakefront cabins, guests can enjoy a serene vacation where they can be away from the distractions of the modern world. The rooms are cozy and homey with beautiful hand-hewn furniture, fantastic stonework, and rich vibrant colors on the carpet and furnishings.
A lot of the furniture is handmade by local artisans too. These are paired with indulgent featherbeds, exquisite balconies, and enormous baths with a soaking tub.
You don’t have to worry about your time here because there’s plenty to do. You can go horseback riding, fishing, or join any of the lakeside activities. There are nightly bonfires and s’mores and in winter, this is paired with a cup of hot cocoa.
Artisans is the signature farm-to-table restaurant while Maggie’s Pub is great for drinks or light bites. There’s an indoor and outdoor event space for weddings and other ceremonies, including a meeting room.
If you want to pay in cash, the room rate starts at $614 to $1,518 per night (an average of $814).
12. The Setai, Miami Beach
The Setai, Miami Beach. Image Credit: The Setai, Miami Beach
A glistening landmark on the quieter side of South Beach, The Setai is within walking distance of the famous Lincoln Road where all of Miami’s dining and shopping destinations are found.
Step inside this fantastic resort and you’re immediately struck by the chic brick floors and the dark teakwood accents. The rooms are divided into two main buildings – the Art Deco building and the Modern Tower, occupied mostly by residential rooms.
Each one has a distinct Zen quality to it, mixing western touches with Japanese-style minimalism. Starting at 600 square feet, 85 studio suites in the Art Deco building feature shiny hardwood floors, dark wood furniture, blocky floor lamps, and a handmade Duxiana bed.
All these sexy dark touches continue to the bathroom where you’ll get a black marble soaking tub, exquisite rain showers with full-height black tiles, and branded Acqua di Parma toiletries and robes.
Boasting the most stunning grounds in South Beach, the resort has 3 beachfront swimming pools, an enormous and fully-equipped fitness center, a recording studio designed by Lenny Kravitz, and an extravagant Asian-themed spa.
For food, indulge in Asian cuisine at Jaya or grab cocktails and light bites at The Courtyard or The Bar. Meanwhile, Ocean Grill is perfect for seafood while the resort’s wine cellar is a must-visit for wine connoisseurs.
Standard room rates start at $529 to $2,280 per night with an average of $800.
13. Nobu Hotel Miami Beach
Nobu Hotel Miami Beach. Image Credit: Nobu Hotel Miami Beach
The Nobu Hotel Miami Beach is every bit spectacular as its world-famous namesake restaurant. Unlike most hotel resorts, Nobu is within another resort – the Eden Roc Miami Beach Resort.
Bringing the 1950s to the modern world, Nobu Hotel’s lobby shows off an art deco vibe with its striking chandelier and circular bar. Attendants are quick to hand over a margarita during check-in ( a signature South Beach welcome).
The rooms here are minimalistic with subtle patterned textures on the carpet and wallpaper – enough to create interest and contrast. Everything here feels refined and of quality. Stylish sofas and tables offer a place to relax apart from the king-sized bed covered in white linens.
Black marble floors and cherry blossom patterns on the wall are found in the bathroom, along with private showers with a rainfall showerhead, large vanities, and Natural Bisse bath items.
The hotel’s namesake restaurant is where to get the best sushi. You can also indulge in a tasting menu. For healthy and organic dishes, head to the poolside restaurant while for light bites, the lobby bar is a great spot.
Aside from the striking rooms and excellent food, guests can enjoy an impressive fitness center, a spa with 18 treatment rooms, 3 outdoor pools, a kid’s club, and a meeting area.
For paid rates, it starts at $475 to $1,300 per night (an average of $794).
14. The Cloudveil, Autograph Collection
The Cloudveil, Autograph Collection. Image Credit: The Cloudveil
Want to experience a modern cowboy’s life? There’s no better place to visit than The Cloudveil in Jackson, Wyoming. Recently opened, the Cloudveil greets guests with a 3,000-pound boulder as a check-in desk.
Every nook and cranny of this hotel echoes authentic Western decor, from the handstitched leather on the walls and elevator to the striking granite wall leading to the rooftop.
To complete the experience, all rooms (85) and suites (11) are filled with the same odds and ends to make your stay every bit special. These rooms carry ample queen beds, black and white buffalo wall pictures, abundant storage, a minibar, and even cabinets with horseshoe handles.
Have a seat or read a book on the luxurious L-shaped sofa (this can double as a kid’s bed too). Standard rooms don’t have bathtubs, but offer a glorious glass-walled shower, striking trough-style sinks with double faucets, and Grown Alchemist lotions and soaps.
As a treat, guests have a communal pantry on each floor, where there’s artisanal ice cream, chips, and more. Head to the rooftop for communal fire pits and a striking view. There’s also a pool, hot tub, plenty of outdoor activities, and a restaurant (The Bistro).
Part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, you can book a free night here starting with 70,000 to 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Cash bookings start at $453 per night up to $1,124 (average of 750).
15. Under Canvas Moab
Under Canvas Moab. Image Credit: Under Canvas Moab
Tired of traditional hotels and resorts but don’t want to sacrifice the luxury and pampering? Try staying at Under Canvas Moab.
Located at the doorstep of Arches National Park, these glamping-style digs mean you can relax in comfort even while being out and about in nature. Under Canvas Moab has a few locations in the U.S., each one strategically positioned near parks like Yellowstone, Zion, and the Great Smoky Mountains.
At Under Canvas Moab, you can pick from several room categories. The starter room – the Safari Tent – uses communal bathrooms while more private digs like the Suite Tents have a private bath and shower.
Inside the tent, you get a plush king bed, a wood-fired heater, lamp lights, a fan, EO toiletries, string pulled hot shower system, and more. There’s a balcony with chairs too if you want to just soak in the stars by your tent.
There’s no pool, tub, gym, or anything like that here. Instead, Under Canvas Moab provides a host of camping and outdoor activities – after all, that’s what you came here for! There are yard games, campfires, s’mores, a scavenger hunt, yoga, and a bird presentation.
For food, there are packaged snacks for sale at the check-in. But otherwise, you can cook and grill food at the grilling station. Adult beverages are also not available at the Moab site but this could change in the future. Other Under Canvas locations offer true food service.
While unique and laid back, the prices here aren’t cheap. Cash rates start at $297 per night for entry-level tents and go up to $700 for the suite tents (an average of $380).
Wrapping Up
It’s time to make that exclusive dream luxury retreat a reality.
Stay at any of these fantastic resorts and get ready to make your vacation a magical one.
Safe travels!