Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island | The Perfect Spot for a Seaside Lunch

A view of the hotel, looking up from the water.
Credit: Jessica Gordon Ryan In 2003, damage from the salty air and harsh New England winters finally took its toll on the grand hotel, and it closed after 135 years of operation — but not for long. The following year, plans were drawn up to re-create Ocean House as accurately as possible. Over 5,000 items were salvaged from the old structure to give the new one the character and charm of yesteryear. The rebuilt hotel features 49 rooms, 15 suites, an on-site spa, several dining options, and a number of luxe amenities. Ocean House is once again a sought-after New England destination, with accolades including a nod from Yankee in its 2015 cover feature “Sandcastles by the Sea” and a spot on the NewEngland.com list “10 Best Seaside Inns in New England.” You don’t need to have the deep pockets of a Vanderbilt or Astor, however, to enjoy a taste of what’s on offer here. As a member of the Relais & Châteaux luxury property group, Ocean House prides itself on its fine dining experience — and you don’t need a room key to make a reservation. Whether you’re a hotel guest or merely visiting Watch Hill, nearly all of the hotel’s excellent on-site dining options (including those at its nearby sister property, the Weekapaug Inn) offer the perfect seaside lunch experience for summer.

WHERE TO ENJOY A SEASIDE LUNCH AT OCEAN HOUSE