When it comes to romantic getaways in New England, few destinations capture the magic of coastal romance quite like Westerly, Rhode Island. Our charming seaside town offers the perfect blend of intimate experiences, world-class dining, and breathtaking natural beauty that make it one of the best weekend getaways in New England for couples.
At our New England Bed & Breakfast, we’re pausing our winter break just in time for Valentine’s Day, and we’re already seeing couples book their stays. If you’re thinking about a Valentine’s Day weekend getaway in New England, here’s a simple itinerary that balances time together with the kind of experiences that make a weekend feel special without wearing you out.
Can’t make it Valentine’s weekend? No worries! The following weekend (February 21-23) is President’s Day weekend, another perfect long weekend for a romantic escape to Westerly.
Friday: Arrival and a Comfortable Start
Afternoon: Check-In and Settle In
Start your Valentine’s weekend right by arranging a few thoughtful touches before you arrive. Pick up handcrafted chocolates and truffles from Hauser Chocolates and fresh flowers from Rosanna’s Flowers, to set the tone for your romantic weekend getaway.
Arrive at Margin Street Inn in the afternoon. Check into your room, take a few minutes to relax, and get your bearings. Walk the grounds if the weather cooperates. Six and a half acres of riverside property gives you plenty of space to decompress after the drive.
Our rooms feature luxury Matouk linens, and select rooms have fireplaces. Use them. A cozy fireplace can make a weekend feel more special, even if you’re just sitting together reading or talking.
Evening: Dinner Plans
Cap off your first evening with an unforgettable dining experience at Coast, Ocean House’s five-star restaurant. During Valentine’s weekend, Coast offers a special seasonal tasting menu crafted by their acclaimed culinary team, featuring locally-sourced ingredients and optional wine pairings. Reserve well in advance, as this is one of the most sought-after Valentine’s dining experiences in New England.
After Dinner
Come back to the inn. Pour a glass of wine, light the fireplace if your room has one, and enjoy the quiet (and those chocolates you got earlier!). One of the benefits of staying at a bed and breakfast rather than a hotel is that the evening doesn’t have to end with a long drive or a crowded lobby.
Saturday Morning: Exploring Downtown Westerly
Breakfast at the Inn
Start your day with our European-style breakfast. Fresh-baked goods, seasonal fruit, homemade granola, and our signature frittatas give you a substantial meal without the rush of a restaurant.
Walk Downtown Westerly
After breakfast, walk downtown. High Street and Canal Street are lined with antique shops, art galleries, and boutiques, all within a few blocks of each other. Stop at Junk & Java on your way for a specialty hot latte to keep you warm during your downtown stroll.
Wilcox Park
For a longer walk, Wilcox Park, an 18-acre Victorian park, is peaceful in winter, with its winding paths and covered gazebo offering space to talk without interruptions.
Mid-Morning Activity: Ice Skating
If you’re looking for something more exciting, the Westerly Land Trust Ice Rink offers outdoor skating with a classic New England winter feel. Glide around the ice together, laugh when one of you inevitably stumbles, and warm up afterward with hot chocolate.
Saturday Afternoon: Lunch and Relaxation
Lunch at Nana’s Westerly
For lunch, head to Nana’s Westerly, a farm-to-table restaurant known for its naturally leavened sourdough pizza and creative seasonal dishes. During Valentine’s weekend, Nana’s typically offers a special menu featuring local ingredients thoughtfully selected for romance.
An Afternoon Couples Massage
After lunch, indulge in the ultimate relaxation with a couples massage at a local spa. Wells Street Spa offers luxurious couples massage experiences where you and your partner can unwind side by side, melting away stress and reconnecting in a peaceful environment. Pure Eco Spa & Boutique offers a comprehensive wellness experience with complimentary infrared sauna access included with every full-length treatment. Uptown Salon & Spa has been a local favorite for over 13 years. With a team of over 20 specialists, they offer everything from deep tissue massage to Hydrafacials.
Most spas recommend arriving 15 minutes early. Use that time to decompress and transition out of your regular mindset. After your treatments, don’t rush back into activity. Go back to the inn, rest, and let the benefits of the spa work settle in.
Saturday Evening: Coastal Romance
Watch Hill Lighthouse at Sunset
As afternoon turns to evening, make your way to the iconic Watch Hill Lighthouse for one of the most romantic experiences in Rhode Island. This historic lighthouse, perched on a bluff overlooking the Atlantic, has been guiding ships since 1745. February sunsets happen earlier, usually around 5:15 PM, which means you can watch the sun set over the water and still make it to dinner on time. Bundle up, bring a thermos of something warm, and enjoy one of Rhode Island’s most iconic views together. The winter light creates colors you won’t see in summer.
If you’re looking for the best places to propose during your Valentine’s weekend, Watch Hill Lighthouse is one of the most picturesque spots in New England.
Romantic Dinner at The Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn
For Saturday’s dinner, experience the intimate elegance of The Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn. Their Valentine’s Day four-course tasting menu, created by Chef Andrew, showcases the finest seasonal ingredients and can be elevated with expert wine pairings.
Late Night Cocktails at Perks & Corks
End your evening with handcrafted cocktails at Perks & Corks martini lounge. This sophisticated spot is perfect for intimate conversation over expertly mixed drinks, providing the ideal nightcap to a perfect day.
Sunday: Leisurely Morning & Coastal Adventures
Breakfast at Margin Street Inn
Enjoy another fresh, seasonal, and substantial breakfast at the inn to carry you through the morning. Take your time. There’s no checkout rush, and lingering over breakfast is part of what makes a bed and breakfast different from a hotel.
Napatree Point Beach Walk
After breakfast, take a romantic walk along Napatree Point Conservation Area. This pristine barrier beach offers sweeping views of Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The peaceful setting is ideal for hand-in-hand strolls, beachcombing, and simply enjoying each other’s company surrounded by natural beauty.
Brunch at River Bar
For a late brunch before you head home, visit River Bar, named one of Esquire Magazine’s Best New Restaurants of 2024. This globally-inspired oyster bar offers stunning views of the Pawcatuck River and a creative menu featuring fresh local ingredients. During Valentine’s weekend, they craft a special French romance-inspired menu with delights like oyster Bourguignon, lobster pâté, and miso chocolate orange mousse.
More Ideas for Your Romantic Getaway
Explore Watch Hill Village
Beyond the lighthouse, Watch Hill Village is home to the historic Flying Horse Carousel (closed in winter but still iconic) and charming streets perfect for hand-in-hand strolls. While the shops and restaurants are closed for the season, thequiet, empty streets and dramatic ocean views make the village feel especially peaceful.
Tour Local Art Galleries
Westerly’s downtown galleries showcase regional artists. Spend an hour browsing together, discussing what you like, and maybe bringing home a piece that reminds you of the weekend.
Book a Cooking Class or Wine Tasting
Ocean House occasionally offers private cooking and wine classes, perfect for couples. Check their events calendar for Valentine’s weekend availability.
Take a Scenic Drive
Route 1A toward Watch Hill offers picturesque coastal views, especially beautiful in winter light. The drive takes about 15 minutes and provides a different perspective on the area.
Planning Your Valentine’s Weekend Getaway
Book Early: Valentine’s weekend fills up quickly. Reserve your room at Margin Street Inn, make restaurant reservations, and book spa appointments as soon as you’ve set your dates. Most popular restaurants and spas are already taking Valentine’s bookings.
Consider the Weather: February in Rhode Island averages in the 20s-40s. Bring layers, a warm coat, and comfortable shoes for walking. Winter beach visits are beautiful but windy, so dress accordingly.
Build in Downtime: The best weekend getaways in New England include breathing room. Don’t pack every hour with activities. Some of the most meaningful moments happen when you’re not trying to see everything or do everything.
Plan Beyond Valentine’s Day: If you’re considering a proposal, planning a future wedding, or simply want to return when the weather’s warmer, use this weekend to scout locations and get a feel for the area. Many couples fall in love with Westerly in winter and return in summer for longer stays or special events.
Make This Valentine’s Weekend Special with a Romantic Getaway in New England
Romantic getaways in New England don’t require elaborate plans or grand gestures. They require presence, thoughtfulness, and a place that makes it easy to focus on each other. Westerly offers exactly that.
If you’re ready to plan your romantic weekend getaway, reserve your Valentine’s Day escape now.