The Best IHG Hotels For Beach Getaways

When the daily grind becomes overwhelming, there’s nothing quite like the therapeutic sound of waves crashing against the shore to reset your mind and spirit. Whether you’re planning a summer escape to soak up the sun or a winter retreat to trade snow for sand, a beach getaway is always a good idea.

IHG beach properties stand out as excellent choices for both couples and families seeking the perfect coastal experience. With convenient locations spanning from Pacific paradise islands to Great Lakes shores, these hotels combine comfort, value and accessibility in ways that make vacation planning a breeze.

When staying at an IHG hotel on the beach, you’ll enjoy thoughtful amenities like complimentary breakfast at some properties, easy beach access, comfortable rooms with ocean views and the ability to earn or redeem IHG One Rewards points. Many locations also offer family-friendly facilities including pools, fitness centers and dining options that cater to travelers of all ages.

Here are 10 of the best IHG beach hotels for a fun filled and relaxing getaway or vacation.

Holiday Inn Key Largo

For those wanting to experience the laid-back Florida Keys lifestyle without venturing all the way to Key West, the Holiday Inn Key Largo offers the perfect compromise. As the first island in the Florida Keys chain, Key Largo provides easy access to both Miami’s urban amenities and the Keys’ tropical allure.

One of the best IHG beach hotels, the Holiday Inn Key Largo captures the relaxed Keys atmosphere with its marina location and on-site Tiki Bar. The outdoor pool area serves as a social hub where you can enjoy tropical drinks and casual dining as you soak up the Florida sun. Rooms are comfortably appointed with a Keys-inspired decor that reminds you you’re in paradise (just in case you forget).

The hotel’s location makes it an ideal base for water activities. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, America’s first underwater park, is just minutes away, offering world-class snorkeling and diving experiences. Glass-bottom boat tours provide views of the only living coral reef system in the continental United States for those who prefer to stay dry.

One of the most appealing aspects of staying in Key Largo is the accessibility of two remarkable national parks. Biscayne National Park to the east protects crystal clear waters, emerald islands and beautiful coral reefs. To the west, a scenic drive leads to Key West, where you can arrange a visit to Dry Tortugas National Park—one of the least accessible in the National Park System, known for its historic Fort Jefferson and exceptional snorkeling opportunities.

The hotel caters well to families with its outdoor recreational options and proximity to attractions like Dolphins Plus, where visitors can swim with dolphins. After a day of exploration, you can relax with a slice of authentic Key Lime pie while watching the sun set over Florida Bay.

Rates typically start around 39,000 points per night, providing solid value for a Florida Keys experience that combines accessibility with island atmosphere.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites: Ludington

Michigan’s western shore comes alive during summer and fall and the Holiday Inn Express & Suites: Ludington places you perfectly to enjoy Lake Michigan’s natural beauty. Located just a few miles from the eastern shore of this magnificent Great Lake, this property provides a comfortable base for exploring the region’s beaches, dunes and lighthouses.

The hotel itself offers modern accommodations with all the Holiday Inn Express standards you’ve come to expect, including complimentary breakfast, an indoor pool and hot tub and a fitness center. The property’s pet-friendly policy means your four-legged family members can join in the lakeside adventure.

Ludington’s main attraction is its proximity to stunning beaches and natural areas. Ludington State Park, just north of town, offers seven miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, towering sand dunes and hiking trails through diverse ecosystems. The park’s historic Big Sable Point Lighthouse stands sentinel on the shoreline, providing spectacular views for those willing to climb its 130 steps.

The town itself has a charming downtown with shops and restaurants, while the SS Badger, the last coal-fired passenger steamship in operation in the United States, offers ferry service across Lake Michigan to Wisconsin—a unique experience for transportation enthusiasts.

For golfers, the nearby Lincoln Hills Golf Club provides a challenging course with some spectacular views. Families will appreciate the Sandcastles Children’s Museum and the country’s largest outdoor sculpture park at Michigan Legacy Art Park, just a short drive away.

Stearns Park Beach in downtown Ludington features a mile of beautiful sandy beach with a historic lighthouse at the end of the pier—perfect for sunset photos. The North Breakwater

Light is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the Midwest.

Rates typically start at 23,000 points per night, making this one of the more affordable beach destinations on our list. The value is particularly good during Michigan’s glorious fall color season when the crowds thin but the scenery reaches its peak beauty.

Holiday Inn Express Monterey—Cannery Row

California’s central coast offers some of the most dramatic ocean scenery in the country, and the Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row puts you right in the heart of it. Nestled between Del Monte Beach and Asilomar State Beach, this property offers excellent access to Monterey Bay’s natural beauty and rich maritime history.

This boutique-style hotel features comfortable rooms with contemporary decor plus amenities, including complimentary breakfast, a fitness center and business services. The property’s location is its strongest selling point—you’re steps away from Cannery Row’s shops, restaurants and attractions, including the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Monterey’s coastline provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Rent a bicycle and ride along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, which offers stunning ocean views. Kayaking in Monterey Bay might reward you with close encounters with sea otters, harbor seals and even whales during migration seasons.

Golfers will appreciate being just a short drive from legendary courses like Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill and Spanish Bay. Take a scenic drive along 17-Mile Drive to enjoy the spectacular coastal views and glimpse the lifestyles of the wealthy at their waterfront estates.

The Monterey Peninsula also serves as a gateway to Big Sur’s breathtaking coastline. A day trip south along Highway 1 reveals some of California’s most awe-inspiring ocean vistas. Closer to the hotel, you can watch the sunset from Sunset Rock, with views overlooking Spanish Bay.

For history buffs, Monterey’s past as California’s first capital offers plenty to explore, from historic buildings to the excellent Maritime Museum. Literature fans will appreciate the area’s connections to John Steinbeck, whose novel “Cannery Row” immortalized this once-industrial district.

Rates typically start around 50,000 points per night, reflecting the premium location in one of California’s most popular coastal destinations. The value comes in the walkability of the area and the significant savings compared to some of the luxury properties nearby.

Holiday Inn VA Beach—Oceanside

There’s something magical about watching the sun rise over the Atlantic Ocean and the Holiday Inn VA Beach—Oceanside puts this experience right outside your door. This oceanfront property provides direct access to Virginia Beach’s famous boardwalk and sandy shores, making it one of the premier IHG oceanfront hotels on the East Coast.

Every room in this beachfront hotel features an ocean view, allowing you to watch the horizon from the comfort of your bed or private balcony. The hotel’s amenities include an indoor pool, fitness center and Hemingway’s & Bar Pilar restaurant, where you can enjoy seafood and other specialties while maintaining that ocean view.

Virginia Beach offers a wealth of activities beyond just lounging on the sand. The iconic three-mile boardwalk is perfect for morning jogs, people-watching or evening strolls. Street performers, outdoor cafes and various events keep the atmosphere lively, especially during summer months.

Families will appreciate the hotel’s proximity to attractions like the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, just a short drive south, which features over 800,000 gallons of aquatic exhibits and an adventure park. To the north, the Princess Anne Country Club provides golf opportunities for those looking to hit the links.

For the more adventurous, Virginia Beach offers various water sports, including surfing lessons for beginners, parasailing for aerial views of the coastline and boat tours for fishing or dolphin watching. First Landing State Park, where English colonists first landed in 1607, provides hiking trails through diverse coastal habitats just a short drive away.

The hotel’s location puts you within easy reach of Norfolk’s naval attractions and colonial Williamsburg for those interested in American history. After a day of exploration, return to watch the sunset paint the sky with dramatic colors as you dine at one of the many seafood restaurants along the oceanfront.

Rates typically start at 33,000 points per night, with significant seasonal variation. Summer commands premium rates, while spring and fall offer better values with comfortable beach weather and fewer crowds.

Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach

For travelers seeking a Carolina beach experience that balances natural beauty with urban convenience, the Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach delivers the best of both worlds. Located near the pristine shores of Wrightsville Beach and just minutes from Wilmington’s historic district, this family-friendly resort offers a versatile coastal getaway.

The resort caters exceptionally well to families with younger children, featuring indoor and outdoor play areas designed specifically for little travelers. The seasonal outdoor pool provides refreshment after beach days, while the on-site restaurant serves family-friendly meals throughout the day.

Wrightsville Beach itself is a four-mile-long barrier island known for its clean shores and clear waters. The beach town has maintained a relaxed, upscale atmosphere that appeals to those wanting a more laid-back experience than busier destinations like Myrtle Beach or the Outer Banks. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing and watersports, with local outfitters offering surfing lessons, paddleboard rentals and sailing excursions.

The property’s location strikes an excellent balance—you’re just across the drawbridge from beach activities but also a short drive from Wilmington’s historic riverfront district. This arrangement means you can spend mornings building sandcastles, afternoons exploring Wilmington’s colonial architecture and boutique shopping and evenings enjoying fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.

Families will appreciate attractions like the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (about 30 minutes south) and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. Nature lovers can explore nearby Carolina Beach State Park, home to the rare Venus flytrap in its natural habitat.

For those with interest in film history, Wilmington has been the shooting location for numerous movies and TV shows, earning it the nickname “Hollywood East.” Studio tours are available for behind-the-scenes glimpses of this creative industry.

The Wilmington International Airport is conveniently close, making this an accessible destination for weekend getaways or longer vacations.

Rates typically start at 30,000 points per night, offering excellent value for a property that provides both beach access and proximity to a historic city’s amenities. The shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall offer particularly good value with nice weather and fewer crowds.

Holiday Inn Cape Cod—Hyannis

Cape Cod has long been the playground of presidents and celebrities seeking coastal charm in New England. The Holiday Inn Cape Cod—Hyannis places you strategically on this historic peninsula, making it an ideal base for exploring the Cape’s 40 miles of national seashore, charming villages and maritime heritage.

The hotel offers comfortable accommodations with a seasonal outdoor pool, fitness center and on-site restaurant serving New England specialties. Its central location in Hyannis puts you within easy reach of the entire Cape, from the bustling harbor area just minutes away to the outermost reaches of Provincetown at the peninsula’s tip.

Cape Cod’s beaches are its main attraction, with options ranging from the calm, warmer waters of Cape Cod Bay on the north side to the more dramatic Atlantic-facing beaches on the eastern shore. Near Hyannis, you’ll find family-friendly Craigville Beach and the expansive Sandy Neck Beach Park, while a short drive brings you to the Cape Cod National Seashore with its stunning landscapes and historic lighthouses.

What makes this location particularly appealing is its role as a transportation hub. From Hyannis Harbor, you can catch ferries to the islands of Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard for day trips, experiencing these exclusive island communities without the premium cost of staying there. The hotel’s central position also makes it easy to drive to historic Plymouth to the north for a lesson in colonial history at Plymouth Rock and Plimoth Plantation.

Hyannis itself offers plenty to explore, including the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, commemorating the president’s deep connection to the area and the Cape Cod Maritime Museum. The Main Street area features shopping, dining and a vibrant arts scene, particularly during summer months.

Golfers will find numerous courses throughout the Cape, while nature lovers can explore the extensive trail systems of the Massachusetts Audubon Society properties and the Cape Cod Rail Trail for cycling.

Rates typically start at 24,000 points per night, with significant seasonal variation reflecting Cape Cod’s status as a premier summer destination. Spring and fall visits offer excellent value with fewer crowds but still-pleasant weather for exploring this classic New England coastal region.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Newport

The Pacific Northwest offers a different kind of coastal beauty—one of dramatic cliffs, mysterious fog banks and expansive beaches framed by majestic forests. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Newport captures this unique atmosphere, providing a comfortable base to explore Oregon’s spectacular coastline.

Located in the South Beach neighborhood of Newport, this modern hotel offers all the standard Holiday Inn Express amenities, including complimentary breakfast, an indoor pool and a fitness center. What sets it apart is its proximity to Oregon’s natural wonders and the charming coastal town of Newport.

The hotel puts you just a quick drive from South Beach State Park, where forest trails lead to wide, sandy beaches with breaking waves and offshore rock formations. Unlike tropical beaches, Oregon’s coastline invites different activities—beachcombing for agates and shells, flying kites in the reliable ocean breezes or simply watching the powerful Pacific crash against the shore. The cooler climate means less swimming but more comfortable exploration of tidepools teeming with colorful marine life.

Newport itself offers numerous attractions, including the Oregon Coast Aquarium and the historic Yaquina Head Lighthouse. The charming Bayfront area features fresh seafood restaurants, local art galleries and the opportunity to watch sea lions lounging on the docks. For a unique experience, visit the Hatfield Marine Science Center to learn about oceanography and marine biology through interactive exhibits.

This location also serves as an excellent base for exploring more of the Oregon coast. Head south to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area for an otherworldly landscape of towering sand formations or north to Depoe Bay, known as the “world’s smallest harbor” and an excellent spot for whale watching nearly year-round.

Nature lovers will appreciate easy access to multiple state parks and nature preserves, while those interested in local culture can explore the active arts scene in Newport’s Nye Beach neighborhood or sample craft beers at Rogue Brewery’s headquarters.

Rates typically start at 29,000 points per night, offering excellent value for access to some of America’s most dramatic coastlines. The Oregon coast maintains its beauty year-round, though summer brings warmer temperatures and winter delivers the excitement of storm watching from cozy oceanfront restaurants.

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives

For travelers seeking the ultimate tropical paradise, the Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives delivers an exceptional experience that redefines what you might expect from the Holiday Inn brand, for a fraction of the price of higher-end properties in the Maldives. Located in the South Malé Atoll, this stunning property offers direct access to one of the world’s most pristine marine environments.

The resort features a variety of accommodation options, from garden villas to the coveted overwater bungalows that have made the Maldives famous. Each room type provides contemporary design with natural elements, creating a perfect balance of comfort and island aesthetics. The overwater villas, perched above the lagoon, offer unforgettable views and direct ladder access to the warm Indian Ocean waters.

What sets this beachfront resort apart is its house reef, accessible directly from the island. Even snorkelers can experience vibrant coral formations and encounter reef sharks, rays, turtles and countless tropical fish species just steps from their rooms. The resort’s PADI dive center caters to all experience levels, from beginners taking their first breaths underwater to advanced divers exploring the dive sites of the South Malé Atoll.

For beachgoers, the island features multiple white sand beaches with crystal-clear waters in every shade of blue. Unlike some private island resorts that feel isolated, Kandooma offers plenty of activities beyond water sports. The property includes tennis courts, a fitness center, a kids’ club, and yoga sessions on a dedicated yoga pavilion overlooking the ocean.

The dining options are surprisingly diverse for an island resort, with restaurants serving international cuisine, fresh seafood, and authentic Maldivian specialties. The Kandooma Café offers all-day dining with themed buffets, while the Bokurra Coffee Club provides casual beachside dining. For special occasions, The Kitchen restaurant delivers fine dining with an emphasis on fresh seafood.

Families are well-accommodated, with kids 12 and under eating free at select restaurants when dining with parents. The Kandoo Kids’ Club offers supervised activities, allowing parents to enjoy some adult time at the Kandooma Spa, where treatment rooms feature glass floors providing views of the marine life below.

Redemption rates typically start at 65,000 points per night for standard rooms, with significant upcharges for premium rooms and overwater villas. While this represents one of the higher point requirements in the IHG portfolio, it delivers extraordinary value compared to the cash rates at similar Maldivian properties, particularly during high season. You’ll need to book well in advance to find points availability.

InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort & Spa

Mexico’s Caribbean coast offers some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and the InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort & Spa stands as one of the most well-known luxury properties in the region. Located on the southwestern coast of Cozumel Island, this is one of the best IHG oceanfront hotels.

Set on a half-mile stretch of private white sand beach, the resort offers rooms and suites with contemporary décor incorporating subtle Mexican influences. Most accommodations feature ocean views and private balconies or terraces, with premium rooms offering direct beach access.

What makes this location particularly special is its proximity to the Palancar Reef, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System—the second-largest coral reef system in the world. The resort’s partnership with Scuba Du, a five-star PADI dive center, provides exceptional diving and snorkeling experiences for all skill levels. Even from the resort’s beach, snorkelers can access coral formations and encounter tropical fish, making it one of the few properties offering world-class reef experiences directly from shore.

Beyond oceanic activities, the resort features multiple swimming pools, including an adults-only infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The Ikal Spa offers treatments incorporating indigenous ingredients and ancient Mexican healing techniques, while the fitness center provides modern equipment with ocean views.

Dining options showcase both international and authentic Mexican cuisine across multiple venues. El Caribeño serves fresh seafood in an open-air setting by the sea, while Alfredo di Roma provides fine Italian dining.

Families are well-accommodated with the Planet Trekkers kids’ program, offering supervised activities that introduce young guests to Mexican culture and nature. For golfers, the nearby Cozumel Country Club features an 18-hole championship course designed with environmental preservation in mind.

One of the resort’s most appealing aspects is its balance of accessibility and seclusion. While it offers a tranquil escape, the property is just a 15-minute drive from San Miguel, Cozumel’s main town, where you can explore local shops, restaurants and island culture.

Redemption rates typically start around 70,000 points per night, reflecting the property’s luxury positioning within the IHG portfolio. The value proposition is particularly strong during Mexico’s high season when cash rates here and at comparable properties soar.

Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise

Australia’s Gold Coast delivers miles of stunning beaches, amazing nightlife, and ideal surfing conditions—and the Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise puts you right in the heart of this coastal playground. This towering hotel offers panoramic views of both the Pacific Ocean and the Gold Coast Hinterland.

The hotel features spacious rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize the views. Most accommodations include private balconies where you can enjoy the sea breeze and watch the sunrise over the Pacific or sunset over the mountains. The property’s unique four-tower design ensures that most rooms have at least partial ocean views.

While not directly on the beach, the hotel’s location between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach provides easy access to multiple beaches within a short walk.

The hotel’s elevated Horizon Sky Dining restaurant provides a unique dining experience, making a complete rotation every 70 minutes as you enjoy fresh seafood and Australian specialties. For more casual options, Relish Restaurant offers buffet dining, while their sports bar provides a relaxed pub atmosphere with craft beers and comfort food.

One of the standout features is the hotel’s outdoor lagoon-style pool with a sandy beach entry, creating a resort-like atmosphere in the heart of the city. The property also houses a fitness center, tennis courts and a spa offering treatments inspired by Australian botanicals.

The Crowne Plaza’s location offers the perfect balance for exploring the Gold Coast. You’re within easy reach of the region’s famous theme parks, including Warner Bros., Movie World, Sea World and Dreamworld. Nature lovers can explore the nearby Burleigh Head National Park or take a day trip to the rainforests of Lamington National Park in the hinterland.

For those interested in Australia’s surf culture, the hotel can arrange lessons with local surf schools at nearby beaches. After catching waves, you can explore the shopping and dining options along Cavill Avenue in Surfers Paradise or experience the sophisticated atmosphere of Broadbeach, known for its restaurants and the Star Casino.

Redemption rates typically start around 30,000 points per night, offering good value, especially during Australia’s peak summer season (December-February) when cash rates in this popular destination can be high.

Dynamic Pricing

It’s important to note that IHG has implemented dynamic pricing for its award nights. This means that point redemption rates fluctuate based on demand, season and cash prices, rather than adhering to a fixed award chart.

While this change creates some uncertainty in planning, it can also present opportunities for savvy travelers. Off-peak travel often yields significantly better redemption values, with points stretching much further during shoulder seasons or weekdays. The properties featured in this article sometimes price even lower than the rates mentioned during promotional periods or low-demand times.

IHG’s dynamic pricing tends to somewhat mirror cash rates, meaning popular beach destinations command premium points during summer weekends and holidays. However, booking windows of 30-60 days or far in advance may reveal sweet spots where reasonable redemption rates become available even at popular properties.

For the best redemption values at these IHG beach resorts, consider:

• Booking midweek stays when possible
• Traveling during shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October for most beach destinations)
• Taking advantage of IHG’s frequent promotions, which sometimes offer discounted award nights or bonus points
• Using the Points + Cash option to stretch your points balance further

Earning IHG Points

The introduction of the free night feature for IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card holders has made these beach destinations even more accessible. Cardholders receive an anniversary free night certificate, valid at properties costing up to 40,000 points per night, which covers most of the beachfront properties in this article during standard rate periods, in addition to earning points on everyday spending.

Final Thoughts

A beach getaway offers the perfect respite from everyday life, whether you’re seeking family fun, romantic solitude or adventure along the shore. The best IHG beach hotels provide comfortable accommodations in prime coastal locations, often at point redemption rates that represent excellent value compared to cash prices in these popular destinations.

From the tropical vibes of the Florida Keys to the Maldives, IHG hotels on the beach span an impressive range of vacation destinations across the United States and abroad. Each property in this collection offers its own unique advantages, whether it’s direct oceanfront access, proximity to natural attractions or a balance of beach and urban experiences.

When planning your next coastal vacation—perhaps even to all-inclusive IHG resorts—consider leveraging the IHG One Rewards program to maximize value. By earning points through stays or the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card, you can significantly reduce the cost of these beach getaways.