Tag: newportexperience

Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in the U.S.

You don’t have to cross oceans to enjoy an unforgettable honeymoon. Whether you’re hoping to stick to a budget, stay closer to home, or simply can’t spare too many vacation days, choosing a honeymoon destination within the U.S. can be just as magical. “People often forget how many amazing places there are right here in the States,” says travel advisor Julia Gregory. “With the right planning, a domestic honeymoon can feel just as extraordinary as going abroad.”

We’ve rounded up some of the top honeymoon-worthy destinations across the U.S.—from scenic mountain adventures across Yellowstone Park and Sedona to laid-back beach escapes along the coasts of California and Rhode Island. Keep reading to discover our Top 10 post-wedding getaways.

Gregory notes that Kauai is gaining more attention lately. While the island remains one of Hawaii’s more untouched and naturally rugged destinations, it still delivers that classic honeymoon feel—especially along the southern coast, where resorts like Ko’a Kea combine luxury with laid-back island vibes. For a more tranquil experience, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay on the North Shore offers chic, calming design, private cabanas, and a strong focus on wellness and fitness.

Craving a charming, small-town atmosphere for your U.S.-based honeymoon? Set your sights on Block Island, a hidden gem off the coast of Rhode Island that’s just a short ferry ride away. Book a stay at the stylish Block Island Beach House and spend a leisurely weekend exploring the island by bike—it’s only seven miles long and three miles wide, making it perfectly manageable yet full of surprises. With over 40 dining spots, there’s no shortage of local flavor: Dead Eye Dick’s offers a cozy, backyard feel, while Persephone’s is the go-to for coffee and casual bites. Don’t miss the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs—descending the 141 steps to the rocky shoreline rewards you with one of the most breathtaking beach views in the U.S. or beyond.

Tucked along a quieter stretch of California’s central coast, Big Sur is celebrated for its dramatic cliffs, fog-kissed views, and peaceful luxury hideaways like Post Ranch Inn and Ventana Big Sur, both set amid towering cypress trees. “Beyond the breathtaking landscapes, the region is also a haven for food and wine lovers,” says Gregory. “Carmel Valley, in particular, is home to rustic, down-to-earth vineyards that offer an authentic tasting experience.”

Sticking to the mainland? Consider staying with us in Newport, Rhode Island — a coastal gem known for its postcard-perfect harbor views and opulent Gilded Age mansions. Fun fact: JFK and Jackie Kennedy tied the knot here in 1953, adding a layer of presidential charm to the town’s rich history. While visiting, enjoy classic Newport pastimes like sailing, tennis, and exploring historic estates such as The Breakers and The Elms along the iconic Cliff Walk. For a stay steeped in elegance, The Chanler at Cliff Walk—with its regal Regency and Louis XVI–style interiors—is frequently praised as one of the most romantic boutique hotels in the U.S.

Spanning Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone National Park is a vast and awe-inspiring natural wonder. “A great itinerary starts in Jackson, with a hike through the Grand Tetons before heading into the park,” suggests Gregory. “The diversity of the landscape and the abundance of wildlife make it truly unforgettable.” For a honeymoon stay that blends comfort with adventure, she recommends Sage Lodge in Montana—where couples can unwind at the spa, go rafting, or even take a painting class together.

For couples who crave movement and mindfulness, Sedona is a desert escape that checks every box. “From hot air balloon rides to scenic hikes, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures,” says Gregory. A standout stay? Ambiente Sedona. “The architecture is unlike anything else in the area,” she notes. “With floor-to-ceiling glass walls, guests can soak in sweeping Red Rock views right from their room—and some suites even feature rooftop terraces, perfect for catching those unforgettable sunsets.”

Savannah, Georgia offers everything you’d want in a romantic escape: elegant garden squares draped in Spanish moss, intimate bars and eateries, a vibrant arts and music culture, and even select neighborhoods where you can enjoy a cocktail while wandering—thanks to relaxed open container laws. While downtown boasts plenty of charming hotels, the nearby Montage Palmetto Bluff stands out as the region’s premier luxury resort.

For honeymooners seeking luxury and romance, Northern California’s Napa Valley is an unbeatable choice. Renowned for its elegant hotels, prestigious vineyards, and acclaimed dining— including the legendary French Laundry and numerous Michelin-starred restaurants—Napa offers a delightful blend of indulgence and charm. Don’t forget to set aside time to explore the nearby gems of Sonoma and Healdsburg during your stay.

Celebrate your new marriage in the vibrant city of New Orleans, where stylish hotels like Peter & Paul and Maison de la Luz set the tone for a chic stay. Savor intimate dinners at romantic favorites such as Coquette and La Petite Grocery, and unwind with a glass of wine at the charming backyard bar Bacchanal. When you’re ready to explore, take a leisurely stroll through the city’s lively streets. For a memorable day trip, cross the 24-mile Lake Pontchartrain Causeway—one of the longest over-water bridges in the world—and discover the quaint towns of Covington and Abita Springs.

Exploring the islands at the southern tip of the continental U.S. offers an ideal mix of laid-back vibes and sunny weather for a honeymoon. Begin your journey in Miami to soak up the city’s energetic atmosphere, then make your way through Key Largo and Islamorada, where you can enjoy scuba diving, seaplane adventures, and plenty of fresh seafood paired with tropical cocktails. Top places to stay include Parrot Key in Key West and the secluded cottages at Moorings Village in Islamorada, famously featured in the Netflix thriller Bloodline.

[SOURCE:BRIDES.COM]

Floral Color Trends Defining Summer Weddings in 2025

A Blooming Celebration of Style and Color.

As we look ahead to summer 2025, one thing is clear: weddings are bursting into full bloom with some of the most stunning floral trends we’ve seen in years. This season, floristry is all about personality, natural elegance, and a touch of the unexpected.

Bold romantics will fall in love with deep reds that bring passion and drama to bouquets and centerpieces. For those drawn to timeless beauty, the classic pairing of crisp white and lush greenery remains a go-to choice, offering effortless sophistication and balance.

But this summer also invites a bit of fun. Citrus-inspired hues—think zesty oranges and sunny yellows—are making playful appearances, perfect for couples looking to add vibrancy and energy to their day. At the other end of the spectrum, rich violets are adding depth and a luxe quality to floral arrangements.

For lovers of understated elegance, soft pinks and muted beiges continue to enchant with their vintage charm and dreamlike feel. These romantic tones are ideal for creating an atmosphere of quiet sophistication.

Whether you’re planning a bold, vibrant celebration or a soft, romantic affair, the floral color trends of summer 2025 offer endless inspiration. At our venues, we’re already seeing couples bring these palettes to life in the most beautiful ways. Let this season’s blooms guide your wedding style—and create unforgettable memories rooted in color, texture, and emotion.

READ MORE on The Wed (source).

As Seen In: Hey Rhody | Leading Ladies 2025

At The Newport Experience, we specialize in turning dream events into reality at our stunning oceanfront venues, rich with Newport’s sailing legacy and New England charm. From weddings to corporate functions, our dedicated team ensures every event is unforgettable. Beyond hosting events, we’re proud to give back to the community by donating private charters on our 101’ Schooner Aurora to local charitable organizations. Led by a talented team of professionals, we’re committed to excellence and always looking ahead to elevate our brand and enhance guest experiences. Read more about our journey and vision for 2025, featured in HeyRhody.

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OceanCliff Hosts “YachtDoc Bash” for newportFILM: A Night to Remember

The much-anticipated YachtDoc Bash Friendraiser, held at OceanCliff on March 1, celebrated a special milestone—newportFILM’s 15th anniversary—while raising an impressive $50,000 to support its year-round documentary programming. The celebration blended style, music, and good vibes, all while supporting an amazing cause.

Kicking Things Off in Style | The night kicked off with stunning views of Narragansett Bay as guests arrived in their best yacht rock-inspired attire—think oversized sunglasses, flowy blazers, and retro vibes. The festive atmosphere set the stage for dancing, cocktails, and an unforgettable time.

The Yacht Rock Theme Was On Point | Inspired by the YACHT ROCK: A DOCUMENTARY screening from newportFILM’s November 2024 lineup, the event fully embraced the chill yet stylish essence of yacht rock. Guests went all-in with their outfits, channeling the best of the ‘70s and ‘80s, adding a playful throwback vibe to the night.

Good Food, Good Drinks, and Even Better Vibes | Of course, the YachtDoc Bash wasn’t just about the theme—it was about great food, yummy cocktails, and a non-stop party. Guests were treated to delicious bites, refreshing signature drinks, and live music that had everyone up and dancing.

The raffle was also a big hit, offering everything from exclusive experiences to luxury goodies. It added an extra layer of fun and kept the crowd engaged throughout the event.

Supporting a Cause That Matters | The YachtDoc Bash was not only a celebration but also a fundraiser for newportFILM, with proceeds supporting their year-round programming, including the summer Outdoors series and educational initiatives. We’re proud to support such an important cause that enriches the Newport community.

Huge Thanks to Our Partners | A big shoutout to our amazing event partners, Ryan Designs and Gold’s Wine and Spirits, whose contributions helped make the night even more special. Their creativity and support really elevated the event and brought the entire vision to life.

A Night to Remember | As the night wrapped up, it was clear the YachtDoc Bash was a major hit. Guests left with smiles, memories, and a sense of pride knowing they’d supported an incredible cause. At OceanCliff, we love hosting events that bring people together, and this was a perfect example of combining fun, culture, and philanthropy into one unforgettable night.

We can’t wait for more events like this and are excited to see what’s next for newportFILM.

Stay tuned for more at OceanCliff!

Photos by Maddie Van

And the Winner Is… A Recap of the Mac & Cheese Smackdown!

We had an absolute blast participating in the seventh annual Mac & Cheese Smackdown during the Newport Winter Festival! The event was held at the Newport Marriott, and the atmosphere was electric as foodies flooded in, ready to sample and vote for the best mac-n-cheese. The competition was real, with a total of twelve incredible local restaurants competing for the top spot, and we were thrilled to be part of it all.

The day was filled with endless flavors—it was no small task to choose the best among so many creative and delicious takes on mac-n-cheese. Our dish—a rich four-cheese mac (gouda, gruyere, parmesan, and extra sharp cheddar)—was topped off with brown butter parmesan toasted breadcrumbs, which we proudly presented to the crowd. 

The competition began with Wharf Southern Kitchen and their Guinness cheese sauce mac, followed by Safari Room showcasing our signature four-cheese blend. From there, the tasting journey continued with everything from brisket-loaded macs to lobster Florentine creations. Despite the amazing variety of dishes, the response to our mac-n-cheese was fantastic, with many voters praising its creamy texture and savory breadcrumbs.  We loved hearing feedback and seeing how each unique take sparked different opinions. Some even suggested that the competition needed categories like “Best Classic” and “Most Creative,” and we couldn’t agree more—it was such a fun, dynamic event!

At 3:30pm, the winners were announced. We were absolutely thrilled to take home third place—and even more excited to be recognized for having the best décor of the event! The entire experience was a fantastic reminder of the amazing talent and creativity within our community. The winners from Rising Tide Barbeque—an impressive first-year contender—deservedly took the first-place spot, and Skiff Bar came in second, with everyone celebrating the spirit of the competition.

It was a day filled with delicious mac, camaraderie, and friendly competition. Thank you to everyone who voted for our dish and made this such a memorable experience for all of us at Safari Room! We’ll definitely be back next year, ready to cook up more cheesy goodness and bring even more fun to the festival!

Stone House Inn Spotlight: Meet Our In-House Artist, Occipital!

Exciting news from the historic Stone House Inn! We were recently featured in The Bay magazine for something truly special—our collaboration with the incredibly talented artist, Occipital (a.k.a. Giana Sacco). If you haven’t checked out the full article yet, grab a coffee, get cozy, and dive in here

Giana Sacco, better known in the art world as Occipital, is making waves with her stark, expressive human figures that seem to dance across the canvas. Inspired by motion and emotion, her elongated black-and-white figures have drawn comparisons to Picasso sketches and Giacometti sculptures. And guess what? You don’t have to travel to a big-city gallery to see them—you can experience them right here at Stone House Inn!

These works, ranging from 20×30-inch to 36×72-inch canvases, are part of Occipital’s Form, Perspective, and Fluidity collections. Each piece brings its own story, whether it’s a reflection of the fast-paced energy of New York City or a quiet exploration of movement and space. Nestled amongst the inn’s fireplaces, deep-soaking tubs, and serene coastal atmosphere, these artworks create a one-of-a-kind experience for our guests.

We’re beyond thrilled to have Occipital’s art as part of the Stone House Inn aesthetic and can’t wait for more visitors to appreciate her work in person. So whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, a wedding, or just passing through, make sure to take a moment to soak in the creativity that now graces our walls.

Want to learn more about Occipital and her work? Visit OccipitalNYC.com and be sure to follow along for more exciting artistic collaborations at Stone House Inn!

OceanCliff Hotel Spotlight: A Mediterranean Dream Wedding to Remember!

Big news, friends! Our beloved OceanCliff Hotel has been featured in Style Me Pretty, and we couldn’t be more excited! If you haven’t seen it yet, stop what you’re doing (okay, maybe finish reading this first) and check out the full article here.

This wedding was an absolute chef’s kiss of elegance, romance, and straight-up Mediterranean magic. Imagine soft ocean breezes, sun-kissed stone terraces, and an aesthetic that screams “Santorini meets Newport.” The couple, inspired by their love for all things coastal and European, transformed our waterfront venue into a dreamy escape worthy of a destination wedding—without the hassle of a passport!

From the moment guests arrived, they were greeted with crisp whites and ocean blues, lush greenery, and candle-lit ambiance that made the whole evening feel like a scene from a romantic movie. And let’s talk about the food—because, let’s be honest, no Mediterranean-inspired wedding is complete without a feast. We’re talking fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and olive-oil-drizzled everything. Bellissimo!

The ceremony took place on our picturesque lawn, overlooking Narragansett Bay, where the couple exchanged vows with the Atlantic as their witness. (Cue the collective aww from all of us.) The reception? A lively celebration with dancing under the stars, breathtaking views, and a whole lot of love.

It’s always an honor to be part of such special moments, and we’re thrilled that Style Me Pretty recognized the magic of this day. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels like an effortless European getaway without leaving the U.S., OceanCliff is calling your name.

Check out the full feature and get inspired—your dream wedding could be next!

Rosé All Wednesday on the Lawn at the Safari Room

Whispering Wednesday at the Safari Room Restaurant

In case you need an excuse to enjoy a midweek outing, we’ve got you covered! Join us on the Safari Room lawn at OceanCliff on Wednesdays all summer long for our Whispering Wednesdays series, featuring Whispering Angel rosé.

Bring your friends and soak in the views overlooking the Narragansett Bay from the comfort of our Adirondack chairs. You won’t find a better way to beat the summer heat than sitting under the shade of our pink umbrellas with the salty sea breeze blowing off the bay! 

For a classic experience, enjoy a “Bucket of Roses” (a team favorite!), which includes four mini bottles of Whispering Angel rosé. If you’re looking for something a little stronger, we’re also serving up specialty rosé cocktails featured only on Wednesdays or take our Sales Manager, Susanne Day’s, advice and “ask the Safari bartenders to make a ‘Tequila Cosmo.’ It’s pink for Whispering Wednesdays and a favorite for summer 2024 in Newport.”

Our Lite Bites menu is available all day and our full menu starts at 4pm. You’ll find plenty of delicious pairing options from raw bar and small plates to our signature charcuterie board and lobster roll.

You can’t miss this quintessential summer activity – so grab a friend, snag a seat, and join us on the lawn where we’ll be pouring rosé all Wednesday long!

Winter Wedding Dates Available at OceanCliff

Dreaming of a winter wedding?

Bride and Groom on Snowy OceanCliff Lawn

While winter is traditionally a slower season for nuptials, a winter wedding at OceanCliff is truly magical! With our roaring fireplaces and romantic architecture, OceanCliff provides the perfect romantic setting for your special day. Your wedding party can get cozy in our 24 guestrooms and dance the night away in our gorgeous ballroom overlooking Narragansett Bay.

Bride and Groom Kissing Under the OceanCliff Archway

Planning a winter wedding in Newport, RI can have many benefits, such as:

  • Off-season weddings are typically less expensive. If you’re on a budget you’ll get the most bang for your buck from December–February or even early March.
  • Choose from a wider selection of available dates. Since winter isn’t exactly wedding prime time, your venue and vendors should have more availability on their calendars. Which means you’ll have a better chance of securing the date of your dreams with your favorite venue + vendor team.
  • Avoid the summer crowds and traffic, and have more availability and flexibility for your preferred date and time.
  • Your guests won’t be slammed with wedding invites. Or travel plans! Which means more of them will be eager to attend your event. Just be aware that winter’s got a lot of holidays, so plan your date accordingly.
  • Enjoy the cozy and romantic atmosphere of Newport’s historic hotels, mansions and fireplaces, which can create a magical backdrop for your special day.

Bride and Groom under the OceanCliff Archway

SNOWFLAKE PACKAGE AT OCEANCLIFF

Valid Fridays and Sundays December-March 2026 & 2027. Average cost $197/per person (based with 75 guests).

Package includes:

  • Complimentary Luxury Guest Room for Wedding Night Stay
  • 20% off additional guestrooms
  • One hour of open bar – beer and wine
  • Four passed hors d’oeuvres, choice of two entrees, champagne toast
  • Complimentary Ceremony Package
  • Complimentary parking for all guests

Start planning your dream winter wedding today! Call 401.619.7924 or submit an inquiry here.

Check out these Winter Weddings at OceanCliff and our Pinterest boards for more ideas and inspiration!

https://mstudiosri.com/oceancliff-wedding-in-newport-with-melissa-and-justin/

https://www.halkettphotography.com/2021/02/25/snowy-oceancliff-hotel-wedding/

https://blueflashphotography.com/casey-warren-oceancliff-hotel-newport-wedding/

https://www.meaganemilia.com/elizabeth-andrew-classic-winter-oceancliff-wedding-newport-ri/

https://annmarieswift.com/oceancliff-hotel-resort-newport-wedding-photographer/

https://braveheartsphotography.com/wedding/oceancliff-wedding/

https://www.annasawin.com/sarah-adam-winter-wedding-newports-ocean-cliff-resort/