Bundled Up at the Ocean House

Bundled Up at the Ocean House
📍 Watch Hill, Rhode Island

The following content may contain affiliate links. 
When you click and shop the links, I may receive a small commission.

Sweater || Button-Down || Jeans || Parka || Boots || Similar Bag || Beanie || Gloves

Prepare for a visual feast from our wintery day trip to the stunning Ocean House. Watch Hill, Rhode Island, is just a 90-minute drive from our corner of Coastal Connecticut. So, it was only a matter of time before I would answer the siren call to this historic resort. What can I say about the Ocean House that hasn’t already been said? I have long drooled over images of the signature yellow hotel with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. It truly is a Coastal Grandmother’s paradise. Now that we live so close, I can’t wait for a return trip to summer with a Baby Girl Kennedy in tow. Until then, here’s more about our bundled-up trip to the Ocean House

History and Location

Located high on a bluff of Watch Hill, Rhode Island, the Ocean House Inn has been an institution since it opened its doors in 1868. From the very first day, it redefined luxury travel in New England and marketed to the most distinguished of guests. Over 150 years later, generations of families have been flocking to the Atlantic shores to unwind and relax on the coast. The hotel sits on 13 acres of perfectly manicured grounds overlooking 650 feet of private beach. On a clear day, you can quickly see Montauk and Block Island in the distance. The village of Watch Hill is just a quick stroll away. It is filled with adorable boutiques and perfectly complements your Ocean House visit. Remember that most of these shops are seasonal and will likely be closed during winter.

Brunch at the Bistro

After pulling up to the joyfully yellow exterior of the Ocean House, we made our way to one of their many on-site restaurants, The Bistro. The decor was the classic coastal Americana you would expect to find in a New England landmark. We were led into their sunroom and seated at a window-side table for two. Even though the temperatures were in the teens, it was a cloudless day as the sunshine poured onto us. Breakfast was delicious. As a Relais & Châteux property, you are guaranteed to have an incredible dining experience. It’s what sets this group of hotels apart and is why I always seek them out whenever I travel. After breakfast, we quickly toured the hotel and found the Bemelmans Gallery. It is the largest permanent, private collection of Ludwig Bemelman art on display in North America. If you know about my deep love for Bemelmans Bar at the Carlyle Hotel, you can imagine what a treat this was for me.

Winter Walk on the Beach

Before we continued our day, we decided to brave the tipping winds and icy temperatures for a quick walk on the beach. Even with my LL Bean parka and several layers, I knew I wouldn’t last long, but it was such a beautiful day. We collected seashells, and David helped me get my bearings and pointed out the natural landmarks. Down the beach from the Ocean House, you get a full view of Taylor Swift’s vacation home, High Watch. Although all was quiet on this winter day, I can imagine the crowds it draws in the summertime, with fans hoping to glimpse their favorite singer.

One of the main draws that brought us to Coastal Connecticut was our ability to explore New England. In about 90 minutes, we were transported to a beautiful paradise where service and aesthetics are paramount. It’s easy to see why the Ocean House has won over hearts for generations. I can’t wait to return with our newest addition this summer to let her experience all that our home has to offer.

Love from Rhode Island,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about my travels and style, be sure to visit throughout the week! Be sure to check out my exclusive adventures in NYC and New England.