By Vanessa Packer

EVEN WITH SUMMER BEHIND US, weekends in the city can make you yearn for those days at the beach. While there is some refuge in the nearby Rockaway’s and Jersey Shore, sometimes we crave a weekend jaunt that’s just a bit farther, which is what brought us to Newport, Rhode Island on a recent weekend getaway. It was worth the visit, with incredible seafood, great surf and beautiful shops and homes that had us planning our next trip back. Small enough to navigate by foot yet large enough to entertain you for an extended weekend vacation, check out our must-see spots below.

RESTAURANTS

Black Pearl – Newport’s answer to Minetta Tavern. Best clam chowder in town! (1-99 Bannisters Wharf Newport, RI 02840(401) 846-5264)

Clark Cookhouse – Beautiful restaurant for dinner, with multiple bars. Best known for their lobster dishes, the key lime pie is not to be missed! They also have a fun bar downstairs called Boom Boom Room that gets pretty riotous at night. (1 Bannisters Wharf Newport, RI 02840(401) 849-2900)

Tallulah on Thames – Beautiful restaurant committed to sourcing local and seasonal ingredients. Reservations are a must. (464 Thames St Newport, RI 02840(401) 849-2433)

Fluke – On the higher end and a little more upbeat than many of the other restaurants in Newport. Also has a fun bar for sunset drinks. (41 Bowen’s Wharf Newport, RI 02840(401) 849-7778)

Mooring – Another quintessential New England spot. On the water with excellent views, great for large parties. (1 Sayers Wharf Newport, RI 02840(401) 846-2260)

The Lobster Bar – Great for lunch. Super fresh lobster right on the pier with excellent views. (31 Bowens Wharf Newport, RI 02840(401) 847-4514)

BEACHES

Second Beach 

Gooseberry (Ocean Ave Newport, RI 02840(401) 847-3958

ACTIVITIES

Sailing – You can rent a boat at a number of places in town, ranging from basic to very high end.  If you like sailing its a great way to see the harbors, bays and coastal areas of Newport, Jamestown and tons of little islands.

Surfing – The cold dark New England surf can be daunting at first, but for experienced surfers there are some good breaks along the cliff.

Run – A morning run along Cliff Walk is a great way to see the mansions Newport is so well known for. Take in the beautiful view and get a great workout in one!

SHOPS

Harvest Natural Foods – Stock up on healthy essentials  (181 Bellevue Avenue 401-846-8137)

New England Harbor Club Cool beachwear and wardrobe staples for men and women (63 Long Wharf 401-619-5044)

Farmaesthetics – Natural and organic skincare apothecary and treatment boutique. (144 Bellevue Avenue 401-619-4199)

WHERE TO STAY

Forty 1 North – More Miami than New England, this boutique hotel is modern, luxurious and situated right on the harbor. (351 Thames Street 401-846-8018)

Marshall Slocum Guest House – Cozy and quiet bed-and-breakfast, walking distance to town. (29 Kay Street 401-841-5120)

Vanderbilt Grace – This quintessential Newport mansion has been restored to a beautiful, classic and quiet hotel. (41 Mary Street 401-846-6200)

The Attawater – Lively, modern and well-priced boutique hotel with a convenient location. (22 Liberty Street 401-846-7444)

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