Winter is in full force on the East Coast. For cold-weather lovers, it's one of the best times to enjoy their favorite coastal retreats without the hot sun beating down on them. If the cooler temperatures are your jam, check out these five beachfront properties that offer seasonal winter activities appealing to both sea- and scene-loving urbanites.
The Nantucket Hotel & Resort
An iconic landmark and the island's only year-round resort, this winter the Nantucket Hotel & Resort unveiled an entirely new wing of five Cottage Guest Suites. Off-season is the ideal time to visit Nantucket, as it is free from the typical touristy crowds. Last November, the hotel also launched the The Art of Cabin Fever taking place this winter. The idea is that the hotel has so much to offer under one roof that there is no need to venture out into the cold. Rates start at $175/night on weekdays and $350/night on weekends.
Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa
Hampton's trendiest summer spot, Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, recently completed the first phase of a multi-year renovation with 38 brand new luxury guest rooms. Among the renovations was also a makeover of The Beach Club and a new sand-filtered seawater swimming pool which is the only of its kind in North America. You could spend hours in the massive spa (30,000 square feet) as a nice retreat, despite the colder weather. Rates start at $220/night on weekdays and $290 on weekends through April, 2015.
Congress Hall
Located in the historic district of Victorian Cape May, Congress Hall is America’s oldest seaside resort, providing hospitality since 1816, offering unique and authentic experiences. Whatever the season, guests will be delighted by the array of choices that make it easy to fill days and nights. Relax on a rocking chair overlooking the Grand Lawn or pursue something more active like an exercise class on the beach, an invigorating bike ride through Cape May or a tour of the 62-acre Beach Plum Farm. Rates start at $129/night on weekdays and $239/night on weekends.
The Chanler at Cliff Walk
Located in beautiful Newport, RI is a historic mansion of elegance and beauty with 20 unique and exquisitely-designed rooms. The Chanler is the only hotel on the city's famed cliff walk, and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and one of the city’s best fine dining experiences at Spiced Pear restaurant. During the winter season, guests can enjoy roasting marshmallows in the fire pit on the property's lawn with s'mores kits and blankets, or can participate in a mansion tour in one of the property's custom luxury Buicks (hot cocoa included). For the ultimate finale to your day, be sure to enlist the help of a butler to have a warm bath waiting for you upon arrival at the end of the night. Rates start at $289/night on weekdays and $349/night on weekends.
Sanderling Resort
The recently redesigned full-service Sanderling Resort located in quaint Duck, NC offers a serene coastal setting for mid-Atlantic getaways during the colder seasons. Tucked on a narrow strip of land between the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean, the property’s distinct location allows for guests to observe both sunrise and sunset views. Between quiet trips to the beach, guests may indulge in a seasonal treatment at the award-winning Spa at Sanderling, savor the hearty regional flavors at Lifesaving Station, curl up by the outdoor fire pits, or relax in one of the reading nooks. Rates start at $149/night on weekdays and $189/night on weekends.
