Oceanfront Dreams: 7 Best Beach Accommodations in Westerly, Rhode Island

Perched majestically on the bluffs of Watch Hill, Ocean House isn't merely a hotel—it's an institution. This meticulously restored Victorian grande dame, with its sunshine-yellow façade and white trim, has been welcoming guests since 1868. After a $140 million renovation, it reopened in 2010 as one of only 13 triple Forbes Five-Star properties in the world.

The moment you step onto the wraparound veranda, the panoramic Atlantic views will quite literally take your breath away. I've stayed in suites across five continents, but few compare to Ocean House's Deluxe Ocean View accommodations, where you'll wake to the sound of gentle waves and sunrise colors painting your private balcony.

Dining here is equally exceptional—farm-to-table isn't just a concept but a commitment, with ingredients sourced from the hotel's own farm. One evening, I slipped into their silk pajama set and enjoyed a glass of champagne on my terrace as the sunset transformed the sky into watercolor perfection. This is luxury that feels both opulent and deeply personal.

Just a short drive from the crashing Atlantic waves lies the Weekapaug Inn, Ocean House's sister property nestled between Quonochontaug Pond and the salt marshes. This is where nature and luxury find perfect harmony. The 1939 stone-and-shingle retreat offers a more intimate experience than its grander sibling, with just 31 rooms and suites.

What makes Weekapaug truly special is its dedication to helping guests connect with the natural environment. The resident naturalist offers daily excursions—from stargazing to bird watching—that reveal the rich ecosystem surrounding the property. During my stay, I joined an early morning kayak tour across the still-as-glass pond, spotting ospreys and egrets while learning about the delicate salt marsh ecology.

The rooms feature a sophisticated coastal palette of blues and neutrals, with custom furnishings and feather-top beds that make it tempting to sleep in. But don't—the complimentary breakfast spread featuring local specialties like johnnycakes with maple butter is worth rising for. In the evening, I recommend bringing a good book and your insulated wine tumbler to enjoy a sunset drink on the stone patio overlooking the pond.

For couples who prefer to blend beach days with downtown exploration, The Margin Street Inn offers the perfect balance. This meticulously restored 1849 Greek Revival mansion sits on the banks of the Pawcatuck River, just minutes from Westerly's vibrant center and a short drive to beaches.

What drew me to this boutique inn was its remarkable story—saved from demolition by local preservationists and transformed into one of the region's most charming accommodations. Each of the six guest rooms features period antiques alongside modern luxuries, with original wide-plank floors that whisper of history beneath your feet.

Breakfast here is a true highlight, served in the elegant dining room or, weather permitting, in the gardens overlooking the river. The innkeepers source ingredients from local farms and bakeries, creating seasonal specialties that showcase Rhode Island's bounty.

After a day at nearby Napatree Point Beach, I loved returning to unwind in the peaceful gardens with a glass of wine. For ultimate relaxation, I brought my portable hammock and strung it between two ancient maple trees on the property—an idyllic spot for afternoon reading with river views.

For couples seeking a more contemporary aesthetic without sacrificing location, the Watch Hill Inn delivers modern luxury just steps from East Beach. This boutique property offers 21 spacious suites with sleek kitchenettes, marble bathrooms, and private terraces overlooking the harbor.

What I particularly appreciate about the Watch Hill Inn is how it combines the privacy of a luxury apartment with the amenities of a five-star hotel. As part of the Ocean House collection, guests enjoy signing privileges at the main property while maintaining a more intimate home base.

The Terrace Suite became my personal favorite during a romantic anniversary weekend last summer. After a morning beach walk, we returned to our private outdoor space equipped with my portable espresso maker for freshly brewed coffee with a harbor view—a small luxury that made mornings feel special. The suite's gas fireplace also made for cozy evenings when the coastal air turned crisp.

The location puts you within walking distance of Watch Hill's charming boutiques and the iconic Flying Horse Carousel—believed to be the oldest continuously operating carousel in America and a must-visit even for adults embracing their inner child.

For couples seeking the ultimate in privacy, Winnapaug Cottages offers an experience that feels more like owning your own beach house than staying at a hotel. Located on a secluded stretch of coastline near Winnapaug Pond, these renovated cottages combine rustic charm with upscale amenities.

Each of the seven cottages features unique architectural details—from vaulted ceilings to stone fireplaces—and private outdoor spaces that range from screened porches to expansive decks. What unites them is an emphasis on indoor-outdoor living and spectacular water views.

During my stay in the Driftwood Cottage, I spent evenings on the wraparound deck watching the sunset paint the Atlantic in shades of pink and gold. The fully equipped kitchen allowed for romantic dinners in, though the property can also arrange a private chef for special occasions.

The cottages come with dedicated beach access and all the equipment you need for perfect days by the water. I particularly appreciated the thoughtful beach setup with umbrellas, chairs, and even a beach wagon for transporting everything with ease.

While luxurious, these cottages maintain an authentic New England coastal feel—you'll wake to the sound of seagulls and fall asleep to crashing waves rather than the artificial hum of air conditioning (though they do have it for particularly hot days).

When I first discovered The Villa at Westerly, I felt an immediate connection to my adopted Mediterranean home in Marseille. This boutique property brings European sophistication to the Rhode Island coast, with just five luxury suites housed in a meticulously restored 1922 Italianate mansion.

The interiors blend period details with contemporary design—think ornate moldings alongside sleek furnishings, with a color palette inspired by the sea. My favorite accommodation, the Oceano Suite, features floor-to-ceiling windows that frame Atlantic views like living artwork.

What truly distinguishes The Villa is its culinary program. The on-site restaurant sources ingredients from local farms and fishermen, creating Mediterranean-inspired dishes that transport you straight to the Amalfi Coast. The hotel's sommelier curates an exceptional wine list featuring small-production coastal Italian wines alongside local New England selections.

The grounds are equally impressive, with formal gardens giving way to a stunning infinity pool that appears to merge with the Atlantic beyond. For ultimate relaxation, I spent an afternoon on one of their luxury pool floats, drifting between pool and ocean views while sipping a craft cocktail from their poolside service.

For couples who prefer a countryside setting with easy beach access, Shelter Harbor Inn offers the best of both worlds. Set on five acres of landscaped gardens in the historic Shelter Harbor district, this charming property dates back to 1800 and retains its original character while offering thoroughly modern comforts.

The 24 rooms and suites are spread between the main inn and several outbuildings, each with its own personality. During my stay, I fell in love with the Garden Cottage, a standalone accommodation with a private entrance, fireplace, and French doors opening to a secluded garden patio.

Breakfast is a highlight here—served on the sun-drenched porch or in the historic dining room, featuring homemade pastries and egg dishes prepared with herbs from the inn's garden. For a special touch, arrange for the gourmet breakfast basket to be delivered to your room—the perfect start to a day of coastal exploration.

While not directly on the beach, the inn offers complimentary transportation to nearby East Beach (just 10 minutes away) and provides guests with beach passes, towels, and chairs. After a day by the ocean, returning to the tranquility of the countryside—perhaps for a game of croquet on the lawn or a glass of wine by the fire pit—offers a delightful change of pace.