Last Updated on April 27, 2025
A charming harbor town. The sailing capital of the world. A symbol of opulence. A place where coastal beauty meets timeless elegance.
This is Newport, Rhode Island and if you haven’t been here for a summer or fall visit, you don’t know what you’re missing.
My first introduction to Newport was when my husband was attending Naval Officer training there in 1980. On a weekend visit from the Midwest, my heart skipped a beat just crossing over the Newport Bridge 400 feet above the water. There it was right in front of me: Narraganset Bay, the town of Newport, and the start of a journey that would include my hubby spending almost 29 years as a naval officer and our family living and traveling all over the world.
Newport is a charming coastal city known for its rich history, stunning ocean views and Gilded Age mansions. Situated on Aquidneck Island, it has long been a favorite summer destination, especially for the wealthy elite during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The town is filled with extravagant mansions built by families like the Vanderbilts and Astors that can still be toured, a scenic cliff walk running along the eastern shore with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, jazz festivals, great strolling and shopping opportunities along the wharves and cobblestone streets, and most important of all – incredible seafood.
The best way to enjoy Newport is by staying in a unique vacation rental, one that captures the very essence that makes this colonial town such an unforgettable New England getaway.
Here are some we’ve wrangled up that are sure to make you feel at home and provide that very special Newport, Rhode Island experience.
Captains Quarters at Callender House
This private suite in a circa 1870 colonial house offers a comfy king size bed, private bath and kitchenette to accommodate two guests. The location is ideal as it’s close to everything in the center of Newport, including a five-minute walk to Thames Street and a 13-minute walk to historic Bowen’s Wharf.
Seaside Retreat is another option in the home, offering the same-type accommodations and offerings as Captains Quarters.
Newport’s Yachting Village Home
The brand-new three bedroom, two-bath property offers a keen beachy, nautical feel and open floor-plan ideal for relaxing or entertaining family and friends.
Guests have the option of staying in one of two separate units or renting both for a larger group. Centrally located, it’s only 2.5 blocks to the picturesque Cliff Walk or a one-minute walk to Thames Street and a 10-minute stroll to Bowen’s Wharf and the Newport Mansions.
Cozy Guest Cottage
This place is so darn cute.
Located off historic Bellevue Avenue, the two-bedroom, one-bath vacation charmer can sleep up to three with a ladder leading to a second private queen loft room and a living room sofa bed. A private deck is ideal for enjoying your morning coffee and there’s space for outdoor dining as well.
Lilypad Houseboat on the Harbor
How about staying on the water in a houseboat that can sleep four? Lilypad is a charming, spacious houseboat moored in Newport Harbor that even offers a free water taxi. 4th of July weekend brings the fireworks and Lilypad guests have front-row seats for the light display on the top deck.
Sunsets here are spectacular and a sunset drink is the ticket to a “red sky at night, sailors delight” experience.
Newport Lofts Collection Luxury
If you are coming to Newport with a group, this vacation home is an excellent choice, especially if you’re splitting the cost. The property boasts three bedrooms, each with king-size beds, a fireplace, an open floor plan, four balconies and a gourmet kitchen.
Two bedrooms are located on the first level, one with a private balcony. A master bedroom with a balcony is accessible via a spiral staircase that also leads to a roof top deck with marina and water views.
Downtown Newport Apartment
It’s surprising to see how all the space is wisely used in this attractive four-bedroom, two bath apartment in the heart of Newport. The well-appointed nautical-inspired property can accommodate up to eight guests and is mere steps from Thames Street, Bowen’s Wharf and the best restaurants, shops and attractions.
Admiral Sims Victorian Home Apartments
This place is amazing.
Located just two blocks from Thames St., Bannister’s and Bowen’s wharves, the one-king bed apartment can accommodate two guests and includes an open-concept living room, kitchen, gas fireplace, washer, dryer and a shared patio. The property actually has six apartments to choose from, each offering a lovely setting and reasonable pricing.
Point Gem Historic Home
Located just across from Goat Island and its historic lighthouse, this one-bedroom, one-bath home is in an area known for its historic homes and the neighborhood is featured in the Secret Garden Tour of Newport.
The newly-renovated, tastefully-appointed apartment in downtown Newport is within walking distance to Bowen’s Wharf, Thames Street and other local attractions and restaurants.
Cottage Overlooking Narragansett Bay
This vacation rental home in a highly desirable neighborhood is just one block from the waterfront which includes a swimming and fishing pier, a 10-minute walk to downtown and close proximity to a park with a playground, pickleball courts and plenty of green space for the kids.
The three-bedroom, three-bath 2,500-square foot home can sleep up to six guests so it’s ideal for a family or group of friends. There’s also a front porch, formal garden with a gas BBQ grill and a fireplace.
