If you’re one of those people who like to mix a little sun and sand with a pampered life style, then a beachfront bed and breakfast inn may provide the perfect getaway combination for you. These specialty accommodations aren’t hard to find. Just head to any coast in the U.S. and drive until you hit some cool historical hot spot and you’re almost there.
The toughest part of choosing the best beachfront bed and breakfast inn may be which coast you want to hang out on. The second will be whether you want old school charm or modern everything. In some cases you’ll get lucky and get both.
Here are some of the top picks from travelers who share a love of oceans and pampering bed and breakfast style.
Alegria, Mendocino, California – This place is filled with ambiance, history and magical charm. Located in wine country about 155 miles north of San Francisco, the main house comprising this bed and breakfast was built in 1861 and sold to a sea captain in 1869. The family remained in possession of the property for almost 100 years. The home was sold to an artist from Berkeley in 1964. The inn has changed hands several times since then and many improvements made. Today the property boasts 11 well appointed rooms and direct access to the visually stunning coastline of northern California. 7 of the rooms have direct or distant ocean views.
Harrington House, Bradenton – Sarasota, Florida – Located on Anna Maria Island, the Harrington House Bed and Breakfast is one of Florida’s most highly rated B&B Inns. Located on the beach, this beachfront paradise is nestled amongst palm trees and tropical flowers. Private by virtue of the out of the way location, this property provides quiet and solitude. There are 9 guest accommodations in three buildings and several have direct views looking out on the Gulf of Mexico.
Tyee Lodge, Newport, Oregon – Voted one of the top 10 romantic inns in 2010 by both I Love Inns and American Historical Inns, this beachfront bed and breakfast is close to central Oregon coast attractions such as historic Nye Beach, ocean tour cruises, fishing, two lighthouses, the Oregon Coast Aquarium, and outstanding dining. There are 5 guest suites all featuring amazing ocean views. The scenery here is stunning and it is easy to see how this inn ranks high in the romance category.
Harbour Towne Inn on the Waterfront, Boothbay Harbor, Maine – Featured in Country Magazine, Harbour Towne Inn is a beautifully maintained Maine Victorian style mansion located on the waterfront. If you love New England charm and ambiance, it would be hard to beat that found at this well run bed and breakfast. The Inn features 12 beautifully appointed guest rooms furnished in authentic Victorian style. Each room is unique and several offer waterfront views. Some have shared or private decks that overlook Boothbay Harbor.
The rooms also feature modern amenities such as private baths, microwaves, wireless internet connections, satellite television and mini-fridges.
Bayfront Westcott House, St. Augustine, Florida – Featured in Palm Coast Living magazine as one of the “Five Best Bed and Breakfast Inns in Northeast Florida”, this bay front bed and breakfast features 16 well appointed guest quarters. Located in the historical part of “Oldest City” in the United States, Bayfront Westcott House is conveniently located to both the charm of the city and the pull of the ocean. Westcott House is a Victorian mansion built in 1880. It is one of the only inns located directly on Matanzas Bay. The guest rooms offer period antiques and many feature double Jacuzzis and fireplaces.