5 minute read
Honeymoon on the shoreline
Romantic local getaways for a stress-free honeymoon
By Jenn McCulloch
Planning and hosting a wedding can certainly be stressful. A honeymoon should not only be a time to celebrate a new marriage but also to kick back and relax after so much time planning.
While many think of island destinations, several destinations along the Connecticut shoreline are great alternatives to lengthy travel, high-price flights, and crowded resorts. The area offers beautiful accommodations, a long list of things to do, amazing restaurants, and places to explore. As a bonus, a beloved destination can be revisited anytime!
The state and local beaches up and down the Connecticut coast have plenty of opportunities to enjoy watersport activities and waterfront dining. The towns along the Connecticut shoreline are also known for having thriving downtowns with unique shops and New England charm. Mystic, Essex, Niantic, Guilford, and Branford are well-known for their downtown areas.
SAYBROOK POINT RESORT & MARINA
2 Bridge Street, Old Saybrook; 860-395-2000; saybrook.com
ON-SITE AMENITIES
Guests can choose from elegantly appointed guest rooms, unique suites, or private accommodations with butler service. The resort features a full-service spa offering couples’ massages, wellness treatments, and curated wellness packages, as well as a health club, year-round indoor and outdoor pools with a sauna and hot tub, and sunset cruises. Luxurious touches include room service, plush robes, and fireplaces in many rooms. Guests can enjoy live music at The Choo Choo Lounge and dine at Fresh Salt, the resort’s award-winning restaurant, known for its exquisite sea-to-table cuisine.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Harvey’s Beach, Downtown Old Saybrook, Islander Sport Fishing Charter, Old Saybrook Mini Golf, The Loop, a scenic waterfront walk along Route 154 and North Cove Road, The Kate, and watersports.
WHY STAY HERE?
“Nestled along the picturesque Connecticut shoreline, Saybrook Point Resort & Marina offers the perfect blend of romance, luxury, and tranquility, making it an ideal honeymoon destination,” says the resort’s marketing director, Candace Engdall. “The resort’s breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound create a serene and romantic setting for newlyweds. Whether watching the sunrise from a private balcony or strolling hand-in-hand along the marina, the natural beauty of the surroundings ensures unforgettable moments.”
THE INN AT HARBOR HILL MARINA
60 Grand Street, Niantic; 860-739-0331; innharborhill.com
ON-SITE AMENITIES
Breakfast, wine and cheese reception, cookies baked fresh each evening, seasonal pontoon cruise rides, seasonal live music, and seasonal beach passes.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Walking distance to downtown Niantic with a 1.1-mile boardwalk overlooking Long Island Sound, local beaches, shopping & restaurants, Mystic, Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort Casino, and scenic areas with hiking trails and waterfalls.
WHY STAY HERE?
“Our location is the perfect location to celebrate a small, intimate honeymoon celebration,” says Leigha Johnson, The Inn’s office manager. “The cozy, well-appointed Clark House suites with deep soaking tubs and seasonal gas fireplaces create a really romantic atmosphere. Additionally, we offer the unique experience of reserving our pontoon boat with our Captain Nick privately for the couple to enjoy the views from the river. The cruise lasts one hour and offers the option for a romantic lunch basket or a sunset cruise with gourmet snacks and wine or champagne.”
“We offer our ‘Perfect Together’ package for $225,” adds Johnson. “The package includes monogrammed plush robes for the couple, a split champagne, Lindor truffles, a bouquet of flowers, two morning mimosas served during breakfast, and a late extended checkout of 1 p.m.”
WATER’S EDGE RESORT & SPA
1525 Boston Post Road, Westbrook; 860-399-5901; watersedgeresortandspa.com
ON-SITE AMENITIES
Multiple dining options, entertainment, private beach, indoor & outdoor saltwater pools with exclusive access for resort guests, a fully equipped fitness center, seasonal tennis courts, and a full-service spa offering a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and manicures.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
Clinton Crossing Premium Outlet, Chamard Vineyards, Coastline Brewing Company, Gillette Castle State Park, Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, and Mohegan Sun Casino.
WHY STAY HERE?
“Water’s Edge Resort & Spa offers a truly idyllic setting for a local honeymoon destination,” says Florent Fougerouse, the resort’s director of sales & marketing. “Located along the scenic shores of Long Island Sound, our resort sets the perfect scene for romantic outings and relaxation. Whether you are lounging on our private beach, enjoying a couple’s massage at The Spa, or dining candlelit overlooking the water, your honeymoon will be everything you have dreamed of and more.”
“Water’s Edge Resort & Spa offers multiple on-site dining options, where you can indulge in everything from fine dining to comforting bar favorites, all while enjoying live music every Friday and Saturday at Seaview Bistro,” adds Fougerouse. “In addition to our guest amenities, the resort hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including trivia nights, comedy shows, tribute band performances, and an ample Sunday brunch buffet, ensuring your stay is filled with entertainment and memorable experiences.”
