4 Best Hotels in Newport County and East Bay, Rhode Island

Inside and out, every detail of Newport's newest hotel is a thoughtful homage to its place on the waterfront and in the city's architectural progression including its residential-feeling rooms that feature linens and robes crafted by Matouk just 25 miles away in Fall River, Massachusetts. The Living Room and its bar are a casual place to dine and unwind with a view of vessels—including the hotel-owned Hinckley yacht, Brenton One—venturing in and out of this vibrant seaport. A seasonal green rooftop takes the view and the experience to an unequaled level. Locally owned, the hotel also offers unparalleled concierge service to ensure guests make the most of even a brief stay.

A former Navy base that's now connected by causeway to the downtown area, Goat Island is home to this resort (formerly known as Gurney's Newport) that comes complete with a walking path around the island, a marina full of yachts, a fitness center, and a picturesque lighthouse. Most guest rooms and suites have a water view and are furnished in a contemporary style in calm colors that reflect the sea, sky, and sand. Dining options include the 1639 restaurant and a casual poolside place for a drink or casual bite to eat. Drinks and snacks can also be ordered on a firepit deck that has the best sunset views in downtown Newport. In winter, the hotel has a skating rink on the shores of the bay and serves hot cocoa and other warming goodies.

The painted-brick main house, which overlooks a private courtyard with a fountain and, across the street, the harbor, features rooms with working gas fireplaces; a dozen rooms also have whirlpool tubs. Some rooms are in another Colonial home, while others are in a courtyard addition. Afternoon tea is served daily in the dining room from 3 pm to 6 pm.

This mid-19th-century inn exudes romance and every detail has been thought of in the decadent suites and guest rooms—some have fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and steam showers. Guests are treated to a nightly wine-and-cheese reception as well as a full breakfast served beneath a stunning crystal chandelier and homemade chocolate chip cookies await after a day of shopping or on the beach.