We don't know about you, but we here at Oyster are ready for summer. We've done all of the prepping -- we went to the gym once (hey, its more than we did in the winter!), got a couple of spray tans, and most importantly, we found our stowed bikinis, flip-flops, and wide-brimmed hats. And we're not the only ones who have come out of hibernation and are in back in business for a little fun in the sun: Some of our favorite U.S. hotels on the East Coast have re-opened their doors for the summer season. We've been longing for a stay at these quaint inns and hotels all winter long and now they're ready to welcome us (and you) back.
The Hotel: The Beach Plum Inn & Restaurant -- Martha's Vineyard
The Beach Plum reopened for the season this week in order to accomodate the many vacationers heading to Martha’s Vineyard for Memorial Day weekend. The beautiful property — where alpacas and ponies roam –is an up-island spot overlooking Menemsha Harbor, the fishing village, and a lighthouse. And though its not as historic as the centuries-old town it overlooks, the inn dates back to the late 1800s when it was built from wood salvaged from shipwrecks. While there are few on-site activities, guests can go next door to the Menemsha Inn to play tennis or hit the gym. Don’t expect cell phone service here; part of the charm of sinking into a hammock on a private patio is not having any reception. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property for those who need to stay in touch, and the on-site restaurant that the inn is known for — while pricey — is excellent. See more photos and read our full review of The Beach Plum Inn »
The Hotel: White Elephant Hotel Residences — Nantucket
The big, luxurious one- to three-bedroom units at White Elephant Residences (which reopened last month) are a good choice for families and groups. Unlike vacation home rentals, these units come with the perks of a hotel stay — daily housekeeping, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a well-equipped fitness center. There’s not much in terms of a communal feel, like you might find at an inn or smaller hotel, but that’s part of the allure for some. Part of the larger White Elephant Village, the residences will, however, soon share the property with the White Elephant Inn that will open August 1st, which should provide the more communal vibe some may seek. See more photos and read our full review of the White Elephant Residences »
The Hotel: Nonantum Resort — Kennebunkport, ME
Reopened in April, the Nonantum Resort occupies two buildings: the historic Carriage House Inn, with Victorian-style rooms (that lack modern amenities like flat-screen TVs), and the Portside Lodge, which features bright rooms decorated with paisley prints. Room decor varies incredibly, and some rooms are more pleasant than others. A popular wedding spot, the hotel is on a beautiful piece of land overlooking the water and hosts many events throughout the seasons, including a free wedding show in the fall to assist future brides with their planning. During the summer, families enjoy the kids’ club, the small pool, the kayak and bicycle rentals, and annual events such as Father’s Day brunch and a lobsterbake with fireworks for the Fourth of July. See more photos and read our full review of the Nonantum Resort »
The Hotel: Sole East — Montauk
This American Tudor-style hotel in Montauk is a summer hot spot that maintains an essence of “cool” without pretension. The 61 rooms and suites have a surf-chic vibe and appeal to the Manhattan set with amenities such as high-quality linens and Aveda products. Though not directly on the beach, expansive grounds include lawn games, daybeds, hammocks and an organic restaurant and bar. The outdoor pool — with live music on weekends — is popular, and the party scene has been known to carry on until the wee hours of the morning. Several live performances are also scheduled throughout the summer. See more photos and read our full review of Sole East »
RELATED LINKS:
- Where to Flaunt Your Bikini Body
- Summer Escapes That Are Great Year-Round
- Best Luxury Hotels in the Hamptons
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