Ocean House brings festive workshops, elevated holiday dining, and coastal charm together for an unforgettable winter escape in Watch Hill, Rhode Island
Perched on the bluffs of Watch Hill, Rhode Island, Ocean House is a legendary New England seaside resort, and an irresistible place to celebrate the holidays. Overlooking the Atlantic, the original 1868 Victorian hotel drew well-heeled guests seeking fresh sea air and coastal elegance. After closing in 2003, it underwent a $140 million historic reconstruction and reopened in 2010, preserving its beloved façade while debuting luxurious modern interiors. Today, with 49 guestrooms, 20 suites, and private cottage residences, it stands as one of only 14 Forbes Five-Star hotels worldwide and a proud member of Relais & Châteaux.
The resort is luxe living at its finest; tucked away on a private stretch of white-sand bliss in the tony town. With a full-service spa, sprawling fitness center, and multiple dining spots, you could happily spend your entire stay without ever leaving the property. The guest rooms feel like a modern, beachy wink at Victorian charm with floral prints, crown moldings, and cloud-soft white bedding.
Come December, the resort transforms into a sparkling holiday haven filled with hands-on workshops, elegant dining, and festive celebrations. Ocean House’s popular Holiday Workshops let guests tap into their creative side. Kids and adults can join Cookie & Cupcake Decorating sessions on December 6 and 20, led by the resort’s Pastry Chef. Gingerbread House Decorating on December 13 and 20 pairs sweet design with seasonal beverages, while the Truffle Tree Workshop on December 18 and 22 offers a whimsical chocolate-making experience. New Year’s Eve Culinary Workshops on December 5, 12, 19, and 26 teach guests to craft elegant hors d’oeuvres perfect for toasting the year ahead.
Dining is equally enchanting. COAST hosts a refined four-course Christmas Eve Dinner on December 24 featuring seasonal, beautifully plated dishes. Christmas morning brings a lively jazz brunch at The Bistro, followed by a festive Christmas Dinner at COAST that evening. The season’s grand finale is the glamorous New Year’s Eve Black & White Ball on December 31, featuring gourmet stations, an open bar, live music, and a dazzling midnight fireworks show. The celebrations continue with a lavish New Year’s Day Brunch at The Bistro on January 1.
This coastal holiday escape delivers pure seasonal magic. Ocean House captures the warmth, wonder, and timeless charm that make winter by the sea feel truly unforgettable.