15 Priciest Summer Destinations in America

Money hasn’t deterred folks from traveling to these 15 places, because they are all popular summer vacation spots, according to TripAdvisor. But they sure are pricey!

When TripAdvisor calculated the cost of staying at the hot spots, it discovered a Massachusetts favorite is the pricest in the land (and another Massachusetts spot ranks No. 5!).

The list was determined by factoring in the average weekly cost of a two-bedroom vacation rental property between July and September, basic groceries such as cereal, milk, and chicken, dinner out for a family of four at a mid-range restaurant with a bottle of wine, and bike rentals for a family of four.

Let’s take a look at what it will cost for a family of four to frolick this summer at the following 15 spots.

The following text by TripAdvisor.

15. Palm Springs, California, $1,256.41

Looking to relax in the sun? Palm Springs, with 354 days of sunshine per year, might be the place for you. Relax poolside or visit one of the many area spas—or tour some fantastic examples of mid-century modern architecture.

14. Orlando, Florida, $1,268.08

From the Magic Kingdom to magical spa treatments, Orlando sparkles with the promise of adventure. Spend a day exploring the world-famous Disney theme parks, giggling with the dolphins at SeaWorld, or screaming your head off on a Universal Studios roller coaster. For a less adrenaline-pumping afternoon, enjoy the quiet natural beauty of the Harry P. Leu Gardens, or enjoy a seaweed scrub at a luxury day spa. Savor fresh and local ingredients at one of Orlando’s James Beard-nominated restaurants.

13. Gatlinburg, Tennessee, $1,399.15

Gatlinburg, at the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is an ideal base for a family looking to explore the park’s numerous offerings. After you’ve gone hiking, fishing, rafting or horseback riding, ride an elevator 342 feet to the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle for stunning views of the Smokies. There’s also an amusement center next door with nifty rides and games.

12. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, $1,433.89

Myrtle Beach is all at once a spring break destination, golfing destination, retirement community, and family vacation spot. Take in a foot-stomping show at the Carolina Opry, or cheer on your favorite knight at Medieval Times. Mingle with the fishermen of Springmaid Pier, then stop for ice cream along the boardwalk. Shop and dine at one of the area’s many outdoor entertainment complexes, or simply explore the many beaches of the Grand Strand – all with a personality of their own.

11. Sanibel Island, Florida, $1,485.51

Most vacation spots are either relaxing (Tahiti) or family-friendly (Orlando). Sanibel Island, however, is that rare place which is both. Spend a quiet afternoon shell-collecting, or find a hotel with a kids’ program so you can enjoy a trip to the spa or a round of golf.

10. South Padre Island, Texas, $1,563.35

Right off the southern tip of Texas is a tropical paradise offering as much or as little activity as you want. Whether gazing at a magnificent sunset over Laguna Madre, deep-sea fishing, parasailing, hiking, bird-watching, scuba diving, golfing or simply lazing on the soft white sand beach, this long, narrow barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico offers the ocean-, sun- or recreation-bound vacationer a heavenly respite from the daily grind. Except for Spring Break, when students flood the area, the atmosphere is quiet and laid-back. The clear turquoise waters are enticing, but there’s no shortage of activities for landlubbers. Go horseback riding on the beach, play a round of tennis or golf, hike or join the birders seeking out the area’s more than 300 species. Or get a bird’s-eye view of the coast from the top of the historic Port Isabel Lighthouse. Fresh seafood with all varieties of seasoning and other fare is served at excellent restaurants, many with outdoor seating.

9. Hilton Head, South Carolina, $1,590.17

Long known as a golfer’s paradise, Hilton Head Island is heaven for any type of sports enthusiast. Tennis, volleyball, polo, championship golf on some of the best fairways in the United States – those are just a few athletic options. In fact, the island plays host to many prestigious sporting events throughout the year. All of it surrounded by sunny beaches and lush greenery. In between games or matches, explore Hilton Head’s natural wonders. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve offers a close-up look at a swamp without having to get mucky. Raised boardwalks provide a protected path for pedestrians. And don’t miss the colorful Harbourtown Lighthouse, the island’s icon. Choose from a number of first-class resorts and hotels to experience it all.

8. Cape May, New Jersey, $1,836.42

Yes, Cape May is, technically, on the Jersey Shore. But it’s the antithesis of the Jersey Shore you’ll see on TV—instead of nightclubs and tanning parlors, you’ll find Victorian mansions and a famous lighthouse. Don’t forget to try one of the many top-rated restaurants, pay a visit to the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum, or check out the many local attractions and theaters.

7. New Orleans, Louisiana, $1,965.08

In New Orleans the good times are perpetually rolling down Bourbon Street, which, thanks to the city’s annual Mardi Gras celebration, has quite a party animal reputation. Once you’ve soaked up the scenery of the historic French Quarter, tour the elegant Garden District and meet the colorful characters of Frenchmen Street. Experience the city’s supernatural vibe at the Voodoo Museum or by taking a guided ghost or vampire tour through taverns, alleyways, and cemeteries.

6. Key West, Florida, $1,983.80

Everyone and everything in Key West seems to go at its own pace, right down to the ice melting slooooowly in your margarita glass. Of course, it’s not all limes and leisure – Key West is known as the “Winter White House’’ because of its appeal to visiting U.S. presidents, and the island has been home to literary greats like Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams. The diving here is phenomenal, as is the kid-friendly Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center.

5. Chatham, Massachusetts, $2,120.18

This pleasant, walkable town right at the elbow of Cape Cod is a classic New England vacation spot. Bringing kids? Check out calm beaches like Cockle Cove Beach and Harding’s Beach. If you’re looking for stunning scenery, however, try Chatham Lighthouse Beach. Its tides can be strong (heed the posted warnings), but it’s one of the most beautiful beaches on the Cape.

4. Maui, Hawaii, $2,277.81

The Hawaiian island of Maui is a destination for true nature lovers. The ethereal bamboo forest and churning waterfalls in Haleakala National Park can be explored via the Waimoku Falls Trail. Stretch out on warm, golden sands or hit the surf for an unforgettable windsurfing or snorkeling session. Driving the scenic road to Hana along the island’s northeastern shore will be among the most spectacular journeys of your life. Time stands still at the Hawaiian village of Keanae, definitely worth a visit.

3. Miami Beach, Florida, $2,465.12

At the shore in Miami Beach, visitors can swim, surf and jet ski in the warm and crystal-clear Atlantic waters. You can also nap on the white sands, work on a tan or simply watch the beautiful people, especially at South Beach, a favorite of models and celebrities.

2. La Jolla, California, $2,497.44

Topnotch golf courses, art galleries and seals share the dramatic oceanside landscape of La Jolla, an affluent community 15 minutes from downtown San Diego. Swimmers, snorkelers and kayakers dip into La Jolla Cove, where the protected waters shield an abundance of bright orange Garibaldi fish and sea caves indent the cliffs. The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, the family-friendly Birch Aquarium and the acclaimed La Jolla Playhouse deliver breaks from the sun.

1. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, $3,661.13

This tiny island off Cape Cod remains one of the most popular and picturesque destinations in New England. Among the island’s towns, you’re sure to find the Vineyard that’s right for you. With stately Greek revival houses dating back to the whaling era of the early 19th century, Edgartown is a seaside village of boutique shopping and pristine harbor views. For more of a “beach town’’ feel, Oak Bluffs has the Flying Horses carousel, an arcade and an easy walk to the beach, plus the history and charm of the “gingerbread’’ houses in the Methodist campgrounds. Vineyard Haven offers visitors a blend of both. For a real retreat, Chilmark/Aquinnah is the place to get away from it all. In the off-season, the island is quieter and far less crowded, but the shore is always beautiful. Whenever you visit, leave your car behind! Cabs are plentiful and greet the incoming ferries to help you reach your destination. Most visitors prefer to explore the island on a bicycle, scooter or tourist-friendly public buses.