The hype
Guests are universally blown away by the location and the 'grand dame' restoration, but value-for-money questions pop up frequently due to the astronomical rates.
Ocean House
$800-2,500+/ night
Book this if You want the ultimate 'Old Money' New England summer fantasy and don't mind paying a premium to rub elbows with the East Coast elite.
Why People Love It
- Iconic yellow Victorian architecture that feels like a movie set
- Private white-sand beach with dedicated cabana service
- Gratuity-free policy (tips are included in the daily resort fee)
Quick Take: It’s a stunning, yellow-hued fortress of privilege where the service is usually impeccable, but the summer crowds can feel like a preppy country club mixer you didn't RSVP for.
Reviewed by @FastLaneFamiglia: I’ve never seen my boys this excited about a hotel room! The pirate-themed bunk 'den' was a total hit and gave us parents some much-needed privacy. Having that garden right outside for them to run around in made this our most relaxing family trip yet.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
While the 'no tipping' policy is loved, some guests feel the service in peak summer can be hit-or-miss due to the sheer volume of people.
- You own (or aspire to own) a boat and love the nautical aesthetic
- You want a resort where you never have to leave the property
- You appreciate a strict dress code and formal dining experiences
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.5
- Housekeeping: Impeccable twice-daily service. Turndown includes gifts like chocolates or lavender spray.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless marble, deep soaking tubs are pristine. No reports of mold or grout issues.
- Maintenance: The building is maintained to a 'museum quality' standard. Paint is fresh, lawns are manicured daily.
- Linens & towels: 400-thread-count custom linens and plush Italian woven towels. High luxury feel.
- Odors & scents: Signature 'ocean fresh' scent in lobby, no mustiness despite the age of the design.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway traffic during peak times
- Early morning landscaping/beach setup sounds if facing the ocean
Before you book
Good to know
- The property is 'gratuity-free'—tipping is strictly not expected as it's covered by the resort fee.
- Valet parking is complimentary for overnight guests.
- There is a strict dress code in public areas after 6pm (no shorts/flip-flops).
What to pack
- Collared shirts and loafers for men (dinner requirement)
- White denim and linen for the 'coastal grandmother' aesthetic
- A reusable water bottle (though they provide plenty)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Terrace Suites (ground floor access to grounds, ocean views)
- Grand Deluxe Rooms (fireplace + ocean view, worth the upgrade over Standard)
Rooms to avoid
- Standard Rooms (often face the parking lot/street, small footprint)
- Rooms near the elevator banks on lower floors (high foot traffic)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am celebrating a special occasion and would love a room on a higher floor with a view of the Atlantic, away from the elevator banks. If a room with a fireplace is available, that would be a priority.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the resort fee mandatory?
Yes, it is approximately $40/night and covers all gratuities, valet, and beach services.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs under 50lbs are welcome for a $195 fee per stay. They even have a 'Pooch Menu'.
Is the beach private?
Yes, the beach directly in front of the hotel is for guests only, with cabanas and chair service.
Do I need a car?
Not really. The hotel has a fleet of Mercedes-Benz house cars for local use, and the village is walkable.
Is it kid-friendly?
Surprisingly yes, with a 'Sand Castles' kids program and scavenger hunts, though the vibe is definitely adult-luxury.
How far is the town?
You are literally in it. The hotel sits on the bluff just steps above the main village shops.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Use the 'Secret Garden' champagne bar in the summer for a quieter drink away from the main veranda crowds.
- ✨
Ask for a tour of the wine cellar—it's impressive and sometimes they'll open something special.
- ✨
The indoor lap pool is often empty even when the outdoor beach is packed.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Standard' rooms are shockingly small for the price point.
💡You might spot Taylor Swift's security guards on the beach next door (her house is visible from the grounds).
💡The croquet lawn isn't just for show; there are serious tournaments and pros who will judge your form.
💡Winter is actually a 'secret season' here with fondue gondolas and significantly lower rates.
💡The squash court is an original feature from the old hotel, repurposed with modern flooring.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Ocean House is located and what's nearby.