Hidden Getaway Gem

Holiday family fun on the ocean in Rhode Island

When many of us think New England, we think New York, Boston, Vermont – even New Jersey, but what about Rhode Island? Seaside estates, sandy bluffs, bold ocean vistas… Maybe it’s time we did think of Rhode Island as a great and iconic getaway idea.

At Ocean House, a historic resort perched high on the Watch Hill bluffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the maritime mood is only enhanced by the AAA Five-Diamond awarded service within its storied walls. A sunshine yellow façade and its sprawling grandeur – it sits on 13 acres – are a mere hint at the luxury and its opening date in 1868 as a place where city folk would escape the August heat. But time took its toll on the hotel, and in 2003, the existing buildings were beyond repair. So a meticulous reinvention was undertaken: owners decided it was time to start again, but with a nod to the past.

In 2004, a replica inspired by the look and feel of the original buildings – even the 247 windows were placed in their original positions, while more than 5,000 original artifacts were rescued and reused in the new building – but with all the modern amenities, and a boutique hotel feel. With 49 rooms and 16 suites, it’s a cosy place, but expansive enough to ensure privacy. But summer is not the only time when vacationers can enjoy this unique spot. During the winter months, including the Christmas Holidays, the hotel welcomes visitors. http://oceanhouseri.com

Here, a sampling of what to expect at Ocean House this holiday season:

December 13: Salt Marsh Opera Holiday Dinner Concert in Seasons restaurant

Begin the holiday season with a delicious four-course, holiday-inspired dinner as talented members of the Salt Marsh Opera perform treasured holiday selections.

December 14: Brunch with Santa

Sunday Brunch is made even better with a visit from Santa.

December 15: Gingerbread Village Competition

Local culinary students compete to create a Gingerbread Village inspired by the holiday classic, A Christmas Carol. The chefs will present awards for the best pieces.

December 16: Holiday Wreath Workshop

Learn to craft a wreath that will truly be the center of attention! Get a hands-on tutorial where you will learn to create an original showpiece out of fresh greenery.

December 17: Gingerbread House Workshop

Learn to make a whimsical, yet delicious gingerbread house with the resort’s executive pastry chef at this popular workshop. All materials are provided; you provide the imagination!

December 18: Cocktail & Hors d’oeuvres Class

Discover how to create simple, scrumptious appetizers with the Food Forager and learn how to make celebratory cocktails with the resort’s Sommelier.

December 19: Christmas Cabaret

Take time out from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and enjoy our Christmas Cabaret performance paired with a three-course dinner plus dessert.

December 20: Children’s Christmas Party with Santa

Celebrate the season with the big man himself: Santa! Enjoy an afternoon of holiday-inspired arts and crafts, stories and lunch. Have your photo taken with Santa too!

December 21: Christmas in Song

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the charming Watch Hill Chapel as it fills with the sounds of carolers, bells and storytelling

Pricing for any of these events may be found here.