RHODE ISLAND

Newport

If you love a good sea breeze but can’t stand crushing crowds of Izod-clad tourists, rest assured — there is a better way to experience Newport. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing hideout or top-shelf service, it’s all within a few minutes’ drive of downtown.

Check in at the recently renovated Hyatt Regency Newport, a secluded 257-room resort just across the causeway on Goat Island. Sign up for a family outing on a local sailboat, grab bikes and head to a Newport beach for the day, or stay put and sip cocktails at the saltwater pool before dining at the newly refurbished restaurant, Pineapples on the Bay. At sundown, gather at the fire pit for s’mores and a movie on the North Lawn.  

If, however, you prefer the gilded, gated life, opt for Carnegie Abbey, a members-only sporting club that hugs the coastline in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, just six miles from Newport — close, but not too close. Renowned for its rolling Scottish links golf course right on the ocean, the Abbey also proffers a clubhouse, spa, pool, restaurant, yacht slips, and miles of equestrian trails. Rentals range from one-bedroom condos to five-bedroom homes with private swimming pools overlooking the ocean. If you fall in love with the Abbey, and the Abbey likes you, expect to pay a one-time $43,000 fee for a nonresident social-only membership ($175,000 for a full golf membership). Or flirt for the year with a $12,500 trial run that can be applied toward full membership when you’re ready to commit.  >> Hyatt Regency Newport (starts at $299 per night), One Goat Island, Newport, RI, 401-851-1234, newport.hyatt.com; The Carnegie Abbey Club (starts at $340 per night), 125 Cory’s Ln., Portsmouth, RI, 401-682-6000, carnegienewport.com. — N.K.

CHEAT SHEET
Stress-Free Sips   Make an appointment at the Hyatt’s Stillwater Spa between 2 and 5 p.m. for a complimentary cocktail with any mini spa or “tapas” treatment.
Tee-Time Tipples   It may not help your game, but Carnegie Abbey often arranges single-malt scotch tastings on the 14th hole, close to the tee box.

 

 

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