New England Travel
A Connecticut hotel is also a top waterfront spot.
Hydrangeas in full bloom at Chatham Bars Inn. Handout
The best waterside stay in America is again on Cape Cod, according to USA Today readers.
-
7 things to do during a rainy day on the Cape
The publication released a list of the 10 best waterfront hotels in the U.S. on Wednesday, part of its 2026 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, and Chatham Bars Inn in Chatham ranked No. 1. Chatham Bars Inn topped this list in 2024, but fell to No. 2 last year.
Here’s what USA Today wrote about Chatham Bars Inn:
With a quarter-mile private beach and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, this classic New England destination has welcomed guests to Cape Cod since 1914. With 25 landscaped acres, poolside and beachfront cabanas and lounges, cottages, and five on-site dining options, there’s a lot to enjoy. Settle into an Adirondack chair, stroll into town, or get out on the water to watch the whales.
Another New England hotel made this year’s list: Madison Beach Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton in Madison, Conn. ranked No. 4 (its same ranking last year).
Take a look inside Chatham Bars Inn and check out 5 things to do when visiting Chatham.
For the 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards lists, USA Today travel experts select 20 nominees in topics from food to lodging, destinations to things to do. Then the publication asks readers to cast votes to determine the top 10.
Check out USA Today‘s list of 10 best waterfront hotels in the U.S.
Kristi Palma
Kristi Palma is the travel writer for Boston.com, focusing on the six New England states. She covers airlines, hotels, and things to do across Boston and New England. She is the author of the award-winning Scenic Six, a weekly travel newsletter.
Sign up for Scenic Six
Navigate the endless possibilities of New England travel with Boston.com.
