This page may use affiliate links. When you click an affiliate link, we may get a small compensation at no cost to you. See Our Disclaimer and Affiliate Policy for more information.
Last Updated on January 8, 2024 by Ryan John
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Rhode Island, Newport is a haven of historic charm, maritime wonders, and opulent retreats. As a destination that effortlessly blends its rich history with modern luxury, Newport offers some of the finest hotels on the East Coast. Whether you’re seeking a romantic oceanfront escape, a deep dive into the city’s storied past, or a contemporary haven in the heart of the bustling harbor, this guide will unveil the best luxury hotels in Newport RI. Join us as we journey through the top luxury hotels in Newport RI hotels that define opulence, comfort, and unforgettable experiences in this iconic seaside town.
Luxury Hotels in Newport RI Summary
1. Castle Hill Inn: Check for availability
2. The Chanler at Cliff Walk: Check for availability
3. The Vanderbilt: Check for availability
4. The Hotel Viking: Check for availability
5. Forty 1 North: Check for availability
6. Hammetts Hotel: Check for availability
7. Newport Harbor Island Resort: Check for availability
1. Castle Hill Inn
Highlights
- 40 acres of land including 1/2 mile of coastline.
- 33 unique accommodations amongst the main house and private beach cottages.
- 2 dining options including a Forbes Four-Star restaurant.
- Award winning spa
- One of the best wedding venues in New England.
Castle Hill Inn Details: #1 on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI
Overview: Castle Hill Inn is a luxury hotel located on a 40-acre estate, offering upscale rooms, distinct dining, event venues, and a spa along the coast. The hotel is set on its own private peninsula, providing unparalleled access to the magnificent sights of Newport. Castle Hill is unlike any other hotel on the island. It’s expansive grounds, unbelievable views and combination of both upscale and quaint main house built in 1875, make it truly one of a kind. Stand alone beac cottages are also available your stay, which are a stone’s throw away from both Ocean Avenue and the water.
Why it’s ranked 1st: The Castle Hill Inn’s unique location on a private peninsula, combined with its rich history and upscale amenities, makes it a top choice for luxury hotels in Newport RI. The hotel’s reputation for excellence, as evidenced by its high traveler ratings and reviews, further solidifies its position as the top luxury hotel in the area. The Dining Room in the Agassiz Mansion is a Forbes Four-Star Restaurant that offers an unequaled farm-to-table experience and fresh, local-caught seafood. A diverse set of room options ranging from suites in the main house to beach cottages, can make each stay a unique and memorable stay.
Tip: Even if you don’t stay here overnight, make sure to stop by for a drink to enjoy the views. It’s the perfect way to end your drive along Ocean Avenue.
- Parking – Included in stay. Valet parking available.
- Walking – Not within walking distance of downtown Newport shops and restaurants.
- Pet Friendly – Dogs allowed only in select rooms (Harbor House or Beach Cottage). Not at restaurants.
- Food & Drink – The Dining Room (Forbes Four Star restaurant) and the Mansion Bar (casual bar menu).
- Minimum Stay – Two-nights on weekends year-round and during the week in July and August.
- Family Friendly – Children under 12 cannot stay in Agassiz Mansion.
2. The Chanler at Cliff Walk
Highlights
- The only hotel on the Cliff Walk.
- 20 unique guest rooms and villas, each one with Gilded Age splendor.
- A Forbes Five-Star restaurant and four other food and drink options.
- Wine Garden during the summer and an Apple Cider Bar during the fall.
- Forbes Five-Star Boutique Hotel in 2023
Chanler at Cliff Walk Details: #2 on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI
Overview: The Chanler is a masterful blend of history and luxury. Previously a grand mansion, today it stands as a luxury hotel, promising guests both tranquility and elegance. It boasts an unparalleled location right on the iconic Cliff Walk, granting guests breathtaking ocean vistas and just a short walk to First Beach. The standout feature of The Chanler is undoubtedly its rooms: each is artfully crafted around a unique historical theme. For instance, guests might find themselves immersed in post-Revolutionary America in the Williamsburg Room, adorned with red, white, and blue floral prints from Colonial Williamsburg.
Why it’s ranked 2nd: The Chanler is a beacon of luxury, from its themed rooms, especially with the allure of its Forbes Five-Star restaurant, Cara, to its unobstructed oceanfront views. Yet, it holds the second rank on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI, slightly eclipsed by the sprawling estate and unique ambiance of Castle Hill Inn. However, given The Chanler’s profound historical backdrop and its unmatched Cliff Walk location, it continues to be a top contender, revered by many.
Tip: Stop by for the views and one of the several food and drink options at the Chanler. Get drinks at the Lounge, enjoy breath-taking views at the Cafe, get a quick bite in the Al Fresco Bar, or during the summer relax in the Ca’ del Bosco Wine Garden.
- Parking – Complimentary on-site parking. Valet is available.
- Walking – Primetime location for walking to Cliff Walk, First Beach and Bellevue Avenue.
- Pet Friendly – Only trained service dogs are welcome.
- Food & Drink – Several different options ranging from a Wine Garden to a Forbes Five-Star Restaurant.
- Minimum Stay – Two-night minimum stay on weekends.
- Family Friendly – Yes, the Chanler at Cliff Walk is family friendly.
3. The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection
Highlights
- Smack dab in the middle of downtown Newport.
- A rooftop bar in the heart of Newport.
- Four dining options, two of which are outside (rooftop and garden).
- Unique experiences like Jazz nights, punch bowl happy hours, and outings on the Vanderbilt Yacht.
- Private dining experience offered.
The Vanderbilt Details: #3 on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI
Overview: Drawing inspiration life of Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt, The Vanderbilt stands as a testament to luxury and elegance. Nestled in a historic downtown mansion that was once a proud possession of the influential businessman and heir, it has been masterfully transformed to reflect the demands and tastes of today’s modern world. Yet, its core retains the liveliness and flair that Alfred was known for. The brick exterior seemingly pops up out of nowhere nestled amongst old colonial homes, down two quiet side streets in downtown Newport.
Why it’s ranked 3rd: The Vanderbilt isn’t just a hotel; it’s an experience, a harmonious blend of history and contemporary opulence. Its affiliation with the esteemed Auberge Resorts Collection is a testament to its impeccable standards in luxury and service. Guests are constantly enthralled by the unique offerings of the hotel – be it the clandestine bar or the meticulously curated art pieces. Special events at the mansion, like the Gilded Age Punch Bowl & Jazz Nights, combine old world with new. For those seeking a panoramic view with their drink or meal, the hotel’s rooftop bar is one of the few in Newport. Its proximity to the heart of Newport and diverse dining options ensure that any time of day is a good time at The Vanderbilt. It doesn’t boast the water views of either of our top two choices on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI, but it can offer a very different experience right in the heart of the city.
Tip: The rooftop bar is a must see during the summer months in Newport. One of 3 on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI, but this is the best one in the city for views of downtown and the harbor.
- Parking – Included in stay. Both valet and self park are available.
- Walking – Excellent walking distance to downtown Newport shops and restaurants.
- Pet Friendly – All pets under 75 pounds. There is a $150 one-time fee, waived for service dogs.
- Food & Drink – Four food and drink options including a rooftop bar and eating in the garden.
- Minimum Stay – Two night minimum stay on weekends.
- Family Friendly – Yes, the hotel is family friendly.
4. The Hotel Viking
Highlights
- Fantastic location on Bellevue Avenue.
- A rooftop bar with great views.
- The best lobby in Newport with a very lively and popular bar.
- An impressive brick exterior and brick courtyard.
- A massive hotel with hustle and bustle, all year round.
Hotel Viking Details: #4 on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI
Overview: Hotel Viking is a historic hotel that has been a beacon of luxury since its establishment in 1926. Nestled in the heart of Newport, this iconic hotel has seen legends like Bob Dylan and Ella Fitzgerald grace its halls. With a blend of modern amenities and vintage charm, the hotel offers a unique experience. Guests can indulge in the renowned Spa Fjör, relax in the heated indoor pool, and dine at the on-site restaurant, One Bellevue, which offers a blend of modern culinary delights and traditional flavors.
Why it’s ranked 4th: The Hotel Viking’s deep-rooted history combined with its modern amenities offers a unique juxtaposition of the old and new. Its central location and the added allure of the lantern-lit gardens make it a top choice on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI for those seeking a blend of history and luxury. While it boasts a rich legacy and a range of amenities, it ranks fourth due to the more unique offerings and locations of the top three hotels.
Tip: The Viking usually offers the best pricing on rooms compared to any others on this list of luxury hotels in Newport RI due to the size of the hotel. Make sure you don’t book the manor guest rooms as they’re about the same price as the Newport guest rooms but with half the space. The manor rooms are about 150 sq. feet vs 310 sq. feet for the Newport rooms.
- Parking – Only valet is available and comes with an additional charge of $45/night + tax.
- Walking – Excellent walking distance to all of Bellevue Avenue and downtown Newport.
- Pet Friendly – 2 pets per room, 25 pounds or less. $50 per night/per pet and $150 cleaning deposit per pet.
- Food & Drink – One Bellevue restaurant along with several other drink and snack options.
- Minimum Stay – No minimum stay.
- Family Friendly – Yes, the hotel is family friendly.
5. Forty 1 North
Highlights
- Fantastic location on Thames Street.
- The marina sets it apart from all other hotels in Newport.
- Modern and upscale, with excellent food and drink options.
- Truly waterfront with seating right next to the water.
- Offers marina docking and services, including yacht management services.
Forty 1 North Details: #5 on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI
Overview: Situated on the bustling Thames Street, Forty 1 North is a luxury hotel that perfectly encapsulates Newport’s modern elegance and historic charm. As Rhode Island’s first LEED-certified hotel, it showcases a commitment to sustainability without compromising on luxury. The hotel is renowned for its spacious suite-sized rooms and even larger suites, ensuring guests have ample space to relax. Apart from its luxurious accommodations, Forty 1 North offers a range of dining experiences and boasts a marina, making it a prime spot for yacht enthusiasts. The proximity to the water is unmatched in Newport.
Why it’s ranked 5th: Forty 1 North stands out for its blend of sustainability, luxury, and prime waterfront location. The hotel’s proximity to Newport’s key attractions, combined with its own offerings like the spa and marina, make it a sought-after destination for both relaxation and exploration. It boasts a number of food and drink options with some of the most unique designs and amazing views in all of Newport. The Library and Pavilion are a couple of our favorites. For travelers looking for a more modern hotel, this is your spot. It does lack the history and Newport charm found in the hotels higher on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI.
Tip: Check out the marina for a drink or a full meal. This is a popular spot for yachts to pull in so it’s be known to attract quite a few celebrities over the years.
- Parking – Only valet is available and comes with an additional charge of $30/night.
- Walking – Excellent walking distance to all of Thames and downtown Newport.
- Pet Friendly – 1 pet, 25 pounds or less. $150 non refundable deposit. No pets allowed in restaurant or pavilion.
- Food & Drink – Multiple options including the Pavilion, the Grill, the Library, Christie’s, and the Oval Bar.
- Minimum Stay – No minimum stay.
- Family Friendly – Yes, the hotel is family friendly.
6. Hammetts Hotel
Highlights
- The best location to be near shops and restaurants in downtown Newport.
- The best hotel for business or to get work done in shared spaces.
- Hammetts Wharf runs right through the middle of the hotel.
- The Deck offers great views of the marina.
- Yachting services through the Newport Yachting Center.
Hammetts Hotel Details: #6 on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI
Overview: Hammetts Hotel is a new, luxurious boutique hotel in truly at the center of downtown Newport. The hotel offers 84 guest rooms and suites, each designed with smart furnishings and luxurious touches. Guests can choose from a variety of room options, including King bedded rooms or Queen rooms with a twin daybed adjacent to large window overlooking the marina or the courtyard. The hotel has open seating, not just in the lobby, but also in nooks and crannies on each floor. If you’re going to Newport on business or looking to work during your stay, this offers the best spaces to work without being confined to your room.
Why it’s ranked 6th: Hammetts Hotel offers a blend of modern luxury and convenience. Its smart furnishings and luxurious touches in the rooms make it a comfortable and stylish choice for travelers. It feels like Newport, but not Gilded Age Newport. It possesses a modern, nautical feel. In the middle of the hotel is the entry to Hammetts Wharf, which offers a great view of the marina from the Deck. It’s home to several shops and a restaurant. It lacks the history, the wide array of dining and bar options, and the lively lobbies of hotels above it on our list.
Tip: This is the best location to stay in you’re interested in going out for dinner and drinks and not have to drive or take an Uber back to your hotel. Almost all restaurants are within walking distance.
- Parking – Only valet is available. Costs $25/night out of season and $45/night in season.
- Walking – The best location for walking around to all of the shops and restaurants in downtown Newport.
- Pet Friendly – No, it is a pet-free hotel.
- Food & Drink – Not within the hotel itself. Giusto and Scales & Shells are restaurants in Hammetts Wharf, just outside the hotel.
- Minimum Stay – No minimum stay.
- Family Friendly – Yes, the hotel is family friendly.
7. Newport Harbor Island Resort
Highlights
- Unique location on Goat Island.
- Proximity to the water and outstanding views of the Newport Bridge.
- Great outdoor dining and drink spots.
- Truly waterfront with seating right next to the water.
- Has a marina with 22 slips.
Newport Harbor Island Resort Details: #7 on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI
Overview: Newport Harbor Island Resort is a luxurious getaway located on Goat Island, surrounded by Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay. The resort offers a secluded experience with the convenience of being close to Newport’s main attractions. Guests are welcomed into spacious rooms equipped with luxurious amenities that promise the comforts of home. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on the secluded shoreline while enjoying Newport’s best sunsets or taking advantage of the resort’s various amenities, Newport Harbor Island Resort offers a unique blend of luxury and comfort.
Why it’s ranked 7th: Newport Harbor Island Resort is set apart by its unique location on Goat Island, offering a private island experience while still being close to Newport’s bustling activities. It does feel very exclusive as you’re separated from downtown and busy Bellevue. There is also a marina adjacent to the hotel if you want to travel by boat. The hotel does lack the history and top-notch elegance that others higher on the list possess. It also isn’t easily walkable to most of downtown Newport and Bellevue.
Tip: Depending upon time of year, the fire pits may be available. Having a drink outside with outstanding views of the water and the Newport Bridge while in front of the fire is a fantastic experience.
- Parking – Complimentary parking. Valet is $40/night.
- Walking – Not an easy walk to downtown Newport or Bellevue because the bridge to mainland.
- Pet Friendly – 1 pet, 25 pounds or less. $75 fee per night ($150 max). Rooms include dog beds.
- Food & Drink – A couple of options, including The Restaurant, the Pineapple Club, and the Fire Pits.
- Minimum Stay – Minimum stay on select dates.
- Family Friendly – Yes, the hotel is family friendly.
8. Brenton Hotel
Highlights
- Great spot near restaurants, shops, and the water.
- Brand new hotel
- Modern and upscale, with excellent food and drink options.
- Truly waterfront with seating right next to the water.
- Offers marina docking and services, including yacht management services.
Brenton Hotel: #8 on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI
Overview: The Brenton Hotel, Newport’s newest luxury boutique hotel, offers an unparalleled experience with its 57 elegantly designed rooms and suites. Situated at the intersection of America’s Cup Avenue and Long Wharf, the hotel provides stunning harbor views and easy access to the city’s bustling waterfront. The Brenton redefines Gilded Age luxury, offering state-of-the-art technology and exclusive amenities. The hotel features a variety of food and beverage options, including The Living Room and The Roof Top Bar. Guests can also enjoy room service and in-room spa services, adding an extra layer of luxury to their stay. All of the rooms are excellent and offer a good amount of space and really do feel like Newport.
Why it’s ranked 8th: The Brenton Hotel stands out for its modern luxury and prime waterfront location. Its recent establishment in 2020 brings a fresh perspective to Newport’s hotel scene. There is a relaxed feel to the hotel without sacrificing the upscale nature of the rooms and lobby. The Living Room fits its name with a laidback, yet refined setup that offers breakfast and dinner. The Brenton also has one of three rooftop bars on this list of luxury hotels in Newport RI. Since it was newly built, the hotel doesn’t have the historical feel inside or out, but if you’re looking for a modern and relaxed stay, the Brenton is a great choice.
Tip: Both the Living Room and the Rooftop and must-see spots in Newport. Stop by for a quick bit and then head up to the roof for a drink.
- Parking – Yes, but is a $40/night charge.
- Walking – Excellent walking distance to all of Thames and downtown Newport.
- Pet Friendly – Yes, $40 pet fee. They offer a special menu for dog food.
- Food & Drink – For food there is the Living Room and there’s an indoor bar and the Rooftop when in-season.
- Minimum Stay – Two night minimum stay on the weekends.
- Family Friendly – Yes, the hotel is family friendly.
9. OceanCliff
Highlights
- Secluded location near one end fo Ocean Avenue.
- Stellar views of the Newport Bridge and Narragansett Bay.
- An extremely popular wedding venue.
- Secluded from the rest of Newport.
- Combines historical stone look exterior of the main house with updated interior.
OceanCliff Details: #9 on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI
Overview: OceanCliff is a luxury hotel set on a breathtaking landscape overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its historic Victorian architecture, the hotel offers a unique blend of history and modern luxury. The property features a range of amenities including free parking, high-speed internet, and a banquet room. Many of its rooms boast features like sleigh beds and ocean views, and most luxury rooms have Jacuzzi bathtubs. There’s 24 guest rooms in the main house, in addition to the 4 bedroom gatehouse.
Why it’s ranked 9th: OceanCliff’s unique combination of historic charm and modern luxury makes it a top choice for visitors to Newport. Its prime location on a peninsula off Ocean Drive offers unparalleled views of the Atlantic, ensuring guests have a serene and memorable stay. The hotel’s amenities, such as the Jacuzzi bathtubs and ocean views, add an extra layer of luxury that sets it apart from other options in the area. This is first and foremost a wedding venue, so it lacks some of the amenities and offerings of some hotels higher on the list, but the views and setup are amazing. Its 9th on our list of luxury hotels in Newport RI, but if this was a list of wedding venues it would be closer to the top.
Tip: If you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday, expect there to be at least one wedding each day, so the other rooms may be occupied by the guests and wedding party.
- Parking – Ample parking and its free for guests.
- Walking – Not walkable to either downtown Newport or Bellevue.
- Pet Friendly – No, pets are not welcome. Fully trained service animals are.
- Food & Drink – The Safari Room is the only option for food and drinks open to hotel guests.
- Minimum Stay – No minimum stay.
- Family Friendly – Yes, the hotel is family friendly.
