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Washington is well known for its natural beauty. And what better place to experience a resort getaway than in nature? But while tourists (and maybe some locals) may know where to find the best coffee in Seattle, many may not know where to go outside of the city. That’s why we have come up with a list of the coolest resorts in Washington to relax, have fun, and check out a few awesome views.
Suncadia Resort
Situated in the tiny town of Cle Elum, about an hour and a half from Seattle, Suncadia Resort takes advantage of its remote location by offering numerous outdoor activities. Fully immersed in the beautiful wilds of the Pacific Northwest, guests can make use of the 6,000 acres by taking to the hiking and biking trails, playing one of the three championship golf courses, or grabbing a bite to eat at the onsite food truck. Suncadia also has a well-known spa, which is styled similarly to a Japanese onsen.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
Resort at Port Ludlow
Located on the grassy shoreline of Port Ludlow’s 300-slip marina, the Resort at Port Ludlow offers stunning, nearly 360-degree views of Puget Sound. Because of its convenient location next to the marina, it’s not uncommon for guests to arrive by boat. Also because of its seaside position, the resort has kayaks and stand-up paddleboards that guests can use to explore nearby islands; lucky sea goers may get a glimpse of aquatic life like seals, otters, or maybe even a whale. The Resort at Port Ludlow also has an award-winning restaurant, The Fireside, which utilizes local ingredients and has an excellent wine selection.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
Salish Lodge and Spa
Only 30 minutes away from Seattle and Bellevue, the Salish Lodge and Spa’s location is unbeatable — but this isn’t because of their proximity to the Emerald City. No, its setting is truly unique because it is nestled on a cliff that drops away to Snoqualmie Falls, a 268 foot waterfall. The newly remodeled guest rooms are sleek but also very cozy with an in-bedroom fireplace, plus, many also have huge oversized bathtubs in front of windows that look out onto the breathtaking forested land around the hotel. There are also a number of tour options from Seattle to Snoqualmie Falls for those not wanting to leave the city.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
Campbell’s Resort on Lake Chelan
Well over 100 years old, Campbell’s Resort on Lake Chelan has been a popular retreat for Washington natives for a long time, and it’s easy to understand why. Maybe the perfect summer destination in Washington, the resort has its own private beach with cool, swimmable waters. Campbell’s Resort is also very family-friendly. The hotel offers many kid activities including arts and crafts classes, as well as a fishing program. For adults who are trying to not feel guilty about the carbs consumed on vacation, spend time at the hotel’s FitLab fitness center or do beachside yoga. Afterwardm families can all gather for the free nighttime movie or concerts that are put on most evenings. Oh, and did we mention that the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area connects with some of Washington’s best national parks?
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
Skamania Lodge
The name, Skamania, may sound like a ska music festival with lots of fedoras, Hawaiian shirts, Vans shoes, and horn-heavy music, but don’t fret — this lodge is a luxurious option for a getaway. Located in Southern Washington, in the town of Stevenson, the Skamania Lodge is actually significantly closer to Portland, Oregon than it is to Seattle. While all the rooms in Skamania are designed tastefully and comfortably, they do have some unique accommodation options. Rather than a normal room, visitors can book a tree house. Tree houses come in king and family double sized options for an experience akin to glamping in Washington.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
Sun Mountain Lodge
A great resort option for any season, the Sun Mountain Lodge has numerous wintertime activities including access to cross-country skiing routes. The lodge has multiple housing options including rooms in the main building, lodging at Mt. Robinson, and cabins closer to Patterson Lake. The Sun Mountain Lodge is also a foodie destination. The Wine Cellar has the largest resort wine collection in the Pacific Northwest, while the Wolf Creek Bar and Grill is a casual place to grab some comfort food. The big draw though is The Dining Room. The Dining Room has been given a AAA Four Diamond Award for Dining for 27 years in a row!
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
Ocean Crest Resort
Set just southwest of Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest on the wild and quiet northern shores of Washington’s Pacific Coast, Ocean Crest Resort is not a flashy or large resort but is a tranquil place for a getaway. If it’s too chilly for a quick dip in the ocean, their indoor pool is heated all year round and is accompanied by a hot tub. Ocean Crest Resort also has an onsite spa with services like hot stone massages.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
West Beach Resort
West Beach Resort makes our “cool” list because of its location and affordability. The resort is directly on the water’s edge of Orca Island. Orca Island is likely the most recognizable of the San Juan Islands, being larger and more beautiful than the others. The island is packed full of hiking trails, campgrounds, and waters ideal for sailing; it’s also home to its namesake, the powerful and majestic Orca whale. Those staying at the West Beach Resort can find themselves in a fully-equipped cabin well within listening distance of the ocean currents passing in and out at night. The resort also doubles as a campground and a place for RV hookups.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price
Semiahmoo Resort
Although it’s in Washington, this resort is only 45 minutes from Canada and some of the best places to stay in Vancouver. Semiahmoo Resort itself is a classic resort experience (good dining options, spacious rooms, activities, spa) that also takes advantage of its Pacific Northwestern roots by incorporating outdoor activities and a location with views of Washington’s famous greenery and dramatic seas. Even in the winter, when the weather is less than warm, Semiahmoo has numerous fun activities. Some of these include movies in their Discovery Theater, dance classes, trivia nights, birdwatching, and beer and wine showcases.
The best vacation rentals for the lowest price