3 Best Hotels in South County, Rhode Island

High on bluffs overlooking Block Island Sound stands this extraordinary replica of the Victorian grande dame of the same name built here in 1868. After the dilapidated original was torn down in 2004, Ocean House was rebuilt for $140 million with the same warm yellow exterior, lobby fireplace stonework, and front desk mail slots. This new version has a third of the original's rooms, however, and more than twice the windows—the better to appreciate the stunning views. The spacious rooms have feather-top beds with luxury linens, marble bathrooms, plush towels, and bathrobes. Deluxe rooms have deep soaking tubs, and Grand Deluxe rooms have fireplaces and terraces. Guests may take complimentary wine and culinary arts classes and can arrange to golf at Lake of Isles, 19 miles away in North Stonington, Connecticut, or The Preserve about a half-hour inland in Richmond.

Guest rooms at this lovingly restored Relais & Chateaux inn on Quonochontaug (Quonnie) Pond are furnished with luxury linens and the work of area artists. Lawn games, naturalist-guided programs, watercraft outings, and in-season swimming at a private beach and a lap pool are among the resort's varied activities. Guests also have access to programs and services at the nearby Ocean House, a sister property.

Set amid 3,500 acres of rural land in South County, the upscale Preserve has a large variety of lodging options from hotel suites in the Hilltop Lodge to dozens of tiny houses, condos, and entire homes. The selection of on-property activities at this upscale Preferred Hotels & Resorts property is equally diverse and includes shooting sports, hiking, boating, fishing, equestrian, spa, and meals served in a hobbit house.