When it comes to romance, bigger isn’t always better.
In fact, a recent national study has named Rhode Island the most romantic vacation destination in the United States — proving that the smallest state delivers some of the most unforgettable love stories.
The analysis, conducted by The Resorts Collection and shared with Travel + Leisure, didn’t rely on travel brochures or promotional campaigns. Instead, researchers examined millions of real Tripadvisor reviews to see how often travelers organically used the word “romantic” when describing their experiences.
The results? Rhode Island led the nation.
Across hotels, restaurants, landmarks, parks, and coastal attractions, visitors consistently described their stays here as romantic. Hotel reviews referenced romance at rates more than 50% higher than the national average. Even more striking, Rhode Island’s parks and nature destinations exceeded the national benchmark by over 90%.
The takeaway is simple: couples aren’t responding to marketing — they’re responding to atmosphere.
From Newport’s historic architecture and sweeping waterfront views to candlelit dinners and quiet shoreline walks, Rhode Island creates the kind of setting where people naturally slow down and savor time together.
Newport, in particular, plays a starring role. The Gilded Age mansions, sailboats drifting through the harbor, iconic lighthouses, and elegant coastal dining experiences all contribute to an environment that feels intimate, timeless, and meaningful.
For couples planning a proposal, engagement getaway, or waterfront wedding celebration at OceanCliff Hotel & Regatta Place, this recognition feels especially fitting. Romance here isn’t manufactured — it’s part of the landscape.
While states like Texas, Washington, and New York followed behind in the rankings, Rhode Island stood alone at the top. At the other end of the list was Montana, with the fewest romance-related mentions nationwide.
But for those who have watched the sun set over Narragansett Bay, celebrated milestones along Newport’s shoreline, or said “I do” with the harbor as their backdrop, the news comes as no surprise.
Romance isn’t about square mileage.
It’s about the feeling you get when everything else fades into the background — and the moment feels entirely your own.
At OceanCliff Hotel & Regatta Place, that feeling is always in season.
This Valentine’s season, OceanCliff Hotel invites you to mark the occasion with a carefully curated dining experience in an intimate coastal setting.
From February 13 through February 22, guests are invited to indulge in a thoughtfully curated three-course prix fixed Valentine’s menu at Safari Room, OceanCliff’s signature dining destination. Designed for lingering conversations, candlelit moments, and elevated flavors, this experience is a true celebration of the season.
A Valentine’s Menu Worth Savoring
The evening begins with a complimentary amuse-bouche, setting the tone for what’s to come. Guests then choose from a selection of standout starters that balance comfort and sophistication—favorites include the Crabcake Scotch Egg, finished with remoulade and pickled mustard seed, and Korean Fried Cod Wings, glazed with gochujang and bright citrus notes.
For the main course, Safari Room showcases elegant entrées crafted to impress. Highlights include:
Georges Bank Scallops, paired with English pea purée, pancetta, preserved lemon, and beurre monté
Hudson Valley Duck Breast, served with parsnip purée, roasted beets, blood orange, crispy Brussels sprouts, and sauce bigarade
Filet Mignon from Brandt Farms, accompanied by crispy fingerling potatoes, grilled asparagus, and sauce au poivre
The evening concludes on a sweet note with decadent dessert selections such as Raspberry Crème Brûlée, Flourless Chocolate Torte, or Salted Caramel Pot de Crème.
Each Valentine’s dinner includes a bottle of wine for two, thoughtfully paired to complement the menu, making the experience feel effortless and complete. For those looking to indulge a little further, guests may add a Raw Bar Sampler featuring local oysters, shrimp cocktail, and littleneck clams.
The prix fixe menu is offered at $65 per person, plus tax and gratuity.
Please note: Safari Room will be closed on Monday, February 16 through Thursday, February 19.
Turn Dinner Into a Getaway: Valentine’s Dine & Stay Package
Make the celebration last longer with OceanCliff Hotel’s Valentine’s Dine & Stay Package, available on February 13, 20, and 21. This romantic offering includes:
One-night stay at OceanCliff Hotel
Three-course Valentine’s dinner & a bottle of wine for two at Safari Room
Prosecco and chocolate-covered strawberries waiting in your room upon arrival
Packages start at $199 per couple
Deluxe Queen: $199
Deluxe King: $209
Deluxe Luxury: $229
*Plus tax and gratuity. Direct bookings only.
Reserve Your Valentine’s Experience
Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner, a weekend escape, or both, Safari Room at OceanCliff Hotel sets the stage for a Valentine’s celebration to remember.
📞 Call 401-619-7925 to reserve your table or book your stay.
Let us host you at Stone House Inn and allow your guests to be immersed in the experience of a historic, country estate. Nestled along the serene coastline of Little Compton, Rhode Island, Stone House Inn offers a rare combination of timeless charm and modern comfort—making it the ideal setting for wellness retreats, corporate gatherings, and team-building events. Whether you’re planning an intimate yoga retreat, a weekend of pilates and mindfulness, or a strategy session with your company, Stone House Inn provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation, connection, and inspiration
The Historic Barn – A Sanctuary for Wellness
At the heart of our retreat offerings is the beautifully restored barn, a light-filled and versatile space designed for balance and renewal. With soaring ceilings and rustic character, it’s the perfect place to roll out yoga mats, set up pilates reformers, or host wellness workshops. The barn’s peaceful ambiance and connection to nature allow groups to fully unwind and recharge.
For corporate groups, the barn also doubles as a productive meeting space—with access to an outdoor terrace and gorgeous water views that inspire creativity and fresh thinking.
Stay in Comfort
The property features 16 spacious and well-appointed guest rooms and suites. There are 9 suites in the main house and 5 suites on the top floors of the barn. Guests enjoy thoughtful touches such as daily continental breakfast, evening lite bites, Wi-Fi, and on-site parking. Shuttle service and private beach access are also available, making your group’s stay seamless from start to finish.
Gather, Connect, and Unwind
On the back lawn, evenings come alive around our outdoor fire pit—the perfect spot for moonlit s’mores and laughter under the stars. Adirondack chairs and lawn games encourage relaxed moments in between workshops or meetings, while the coastal breeze sets the tone for meaningful conversations.
Surrounded by Coastal Beauty
Little Compton itself feels like a world away from deadlines and distractions, yet it’s just a quick detour off the interstate. The town’s pristine beaches, scenic biking routes, and rolling farmland provide endless inspiration for group excursions.
Nearby attractions add even more variety to your stay:
Wine tastings at a local vineyard
Private boat charters for sailing and team-building on the water
Bicycling through picturesque country roads
Coastal walks and breathtaking sunsets
Every experience here is designed to bring people together and encourage both focus and creativity.
Why Choose Stone House Inn for Your Event?
✔️ Versatile spaces for wellness retreats, meetings, and workshops ✔️ An on-site coordinator to help tailor every detail ✔️ Overnight accommodations for groups of up to 40 guests ✔️ Team-building activities, lawn games, and fireside gatherings ✔️ A tranquil seaside escape—just a short drive from Providence, Newport, and Boston
Whether you’re envisioning a wellness retreat that nourishes the mind and body or a corporate event that sparks collaboration and creativity, Stone House Inn offers the setting and unique experiences to make your gathering unforgettable. It is the perfect venue for smaller meetings or events up to 40 guests.
If you’re interested in hosting a gathering here, give us a call at 401.619.7924 for more information or submit an inquiry here to start planning your next getaway.
“Working with Stone House Inn was an amazing experience from the moment we inquired for availability until we closed out our event. The team was incredibly accommodating, kind, responsive and delivered some of the best levels of service I have ever seen. I have planned events on 5 continents in dozens of countries and the experience at the Stone House Inn remains at the very top. I can’t wait to bring my group back there!”
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.
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!
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!
Stay close to home and enjoy the beauty of Rhode Island with a staycation at Stone House Inn!
Located in the quaint, seaside community of Little Compton, Stone House Inn is the perfect destination for a cozy getaway. You’ll love the comfort of our elegant guest rooms, complete with soaking tubs and gas fireplaces.
Rhode Island residents enjoy 20% offyour stay. Package includes afternoon lite bites, fireside s’mores and continental breakfast the next morning. In-room massages also available upon request.
Take a stroll around the nearby historic sites and attractions, including Little Compton Commons, South Shore Beach and nearby hiking trails. Or spend the day wine tasting at Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard and relax at the outdoor fire pit in the evening.
Enjoy a memorable staycation at Stone House Inn and explore the best of Rhode Island.
Direct bookings and weekends only. Call 401-635-2222 to book your getaway today!
The Stone House Inn recently played host to Newport Life Magazine’s fall photoshoot, and it was an exciting experience for everyone involved. The photographer, Maiike Berstrom, and stylist, Deon Marie Thompson, worked effortlessly to create stunning shots throughout our property. The outfits and models were just as incredible as the weather!
Our staff was thrilled to be a part of such an exciting project, and it has left them eagerly anticipating the upcoming fall season. With the perfect backdrop for romantic getaways, corporate events, and yoga/reiki retreats, the Inn is the ideal destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
As the temperature starts to cool and the leaves begin to change, the Stone House Inn is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy all the beauty that fall has to offer. Whether you’re looking to escape with your significant other or plan a corporate retreat, the Inn has everything you need to make your stay unforgettable.
So, if you’re looking for a getaway this fall, look no further than the Stone House Inn. With its breathtaking surroundings, outstanding staff, and fantastic amenities, it’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to relax, unwind, and enjoy all that the season has to offer.
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BEHIND THE SHOOT
Photographer: Maaike Berstrom
Stylist; Deon Marie Thompson
Hair: Johnanally Matta, The Little Things, LLC
Makeup: Makaylah Rodriguez
Featured: Folk Vintage, Wish Newport, Michael Hayes, Sole Desire, Gamine Workwear, Little Chateau, Bobbles and Lace, Saltzman Watches, David Rovinsky and Viktoria Sue Jewelry
