If you’re dreaming of a wedding that blends timeless elegance with oceanfront charm, Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island is a venue worth exploring. With panoramic views, Five-Star service, and a rich sense of place, it’s no surprise this property has been named the #1 Destination Wedding Venue in the U.S. by Brides magazine.

From beach ceremonies to tented celebrations, Ocean House offers a backdrop that makes any wedding feel like a true escape. Guests are welcomed into refined coastal luxury, where every space is designed to impress and every detail is handled with care.

As the founder of Verve Event Co., I help couples plan elevated, full-service weddings across New York and New England. In today’s post, I’m sharing what makes Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island such an unforgettable place to say “I do” and how we can bring your vision to life from start to finish.

Photo From Ocean Hill

 

A Coastal Icon in Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Perched high above the Atlantic on a bluff in Watch Hill, Ocean House is a true New England landmark. The Victorian-style hotel has been meticulously restored, blending timeless architecture with modern, Five-Star amenities, all while preserving its coastal charm.

As part of the Relais & Châteaux collection, Ocean House offers the highest level of service, cuisine, and guest experience. It’s one of only 14 triple Five-Star properties in the world, making it a dream destination for couples who want a luxury experience without leaving the East Coast.

The setting itself feels like something out of a storybook. Sunsets over Watch Hill Bay, sea breeze through hydrangeas, and the sound of waves in the background. This property is romantic, peaceful, and completely transportive. And because Ocean House is tucked into one of Rhode Island’s most picturesque coastal towns, your guests will feel like they’ve discovered a hidden gem.

If you’re envisioning a destination wedding that’s sophisticated, scenic, and effortlessly welcoming, Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island delivers on every front.

 

Ceremony Locations with Stunning Views

Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a grand seaside celebration, Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island has a ceremony space that fits your vision. Each location offers its own unique charm, all with breathtaking backdrops and thoughtful design.

Ceremony options include:

 

• Herb Garden
  A quiet, romantic spot surrounded by flowers. Ideal for intimate gatherings of up to 20 guests.

• East Lawn
  Tucked behind the resort, this serene and traditional lawn seats up to 200 guests for a classic outdoor ceremony.

• South Lawn
  With sweeping ocean views and a lively croquet court nearby, this space captures the charm and grandeur of a true coastal celebration. Seats up to 150.

• The Beach
  For a toes-in-the-sand ceremony, the private Ocean House beach offers a relaxed yet breathtaking setting. Accommodates up to 250 guests.

   

Each location is designed to let your moment shine. With backup weather plans in place, you can say “I do” without stress.

Photo From Ocean Hill

 

Elegant Reception Spaces for Every Style

Whether you're planning a seated dinner, a tented celebration, or a beachside soirée, Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island offers elegant and versatile reception spaces for weddings of all sizes.

Reception venue options include:

 

• Harbor Room
  Overlooks Watch Hill Bay and its signature sunsets. Perfect for intimate gatherings of up to 20 guests.

• Drawing Room
  Rich with old-world charm and architectural detail, this indoor space seats up to 60 and feels timeless and romantic.

• Dune Cottage
  A beachside venue with Atlantic views and a relaxed, coastal vibe. Ideal for up to 75 guests.

• Seaside Ballroom & Terrace
  Elegant and refined with panoramic views. Seats up to 150 guests with access to the terrace.

• South Lawn (Tented)
  Ideal for larger celebrations. Offers ocean views, sailcloth tenting, and space for up to 250 seated guests.

• Ellipse Lawn (Tented)
  A show-stopping tented space surrounded by Signature Suites. Accommodates up to 200 and offers exclusivity and luxury.

• Beachside + Dune Cottage Combo
  Celebrate in the sand with dinner and dancing under the stars. Seats up to 150 guests and embraces the full coastal experience.

   

Every space at Ocean House is beautifully appointed and thoughtfully maintained, allowing your reception to feel both effortless and extraordinary.

Of course, the setting is only part of the experience. What truly elevates a wedding at Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island is the attention to detail, and nowhere is that more apparent than in the food and drink.

 

An Elevated Culinary Experience

Ocean House weddings are known not just for their scenery, but for their incredible culinary offerings. From cocktail hour to the final course, every dish is crafted with care and designed to impress.

 

Plated Dinner Packages for Every Style

Ocean House offers several curated dinner packages that can be customized to your preferences. Whether you’re envisioning a formal sit-down dinner or something more relaxed, the culinary team has created thoughtful menus with premium ingredients and Five-Star presentation.

Packages range from $295 to $565 per guest and include multiple courses, wedding cake, and a five-hour bar. Some menus also include signature cocktails, wine pairings, and late-night snacks for a full evening experience.

 

Standout Moments That Wow Guests

Want to elevate your menu even further? Add a raw bar during cocktail hour, an action station, or a signature drink cart. From welcome toasts to late-night bites, Ocean House makes it easy to personalize your dining experience in a way that feels meaningful and delicious.

 

World-Class Service with a Local Touch

As a Relais & Châteaux property, Ocean House combines refined hospitality with the warmth of coastal New England. The result? A culinary experience that feels luxurious and in sync with the atmosphere of your wedding day.

From the first sip of Champagne to the last slice of cake, the culinary experience at Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island is nothing short of exceptional. And when paired with the resort’s thoughtful amenities and guest experiences, your wedding weekend becomes something far more than a single day. It becomes a celebration your guests will never forget.

 

Photos From Ocean Hill

 

Activities + Amenities That Feel Like Vacation

What makes Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island so special is that it offers more than just beautiful views and outstanding food. It gives couples and their guests the chance to slow down, settle in, and truly savor the experience.

From the moment your guests arrive, they’ll feel welcomed into a space that’s both luxurious and personal. Whether you’re planning a three-day celebration or an intimate overnight escape, Ocean House makes it easy to curate a weekend that feels unforgettable.

Some of the activities and amenities your guests can enjoy include:

 

• Five-Star treatments at the Ocean & Harvest Spa

• Sunrise yoga sessions overlooking the water

• Lounging in private beach cabanas

• Croquet on the South Lawn

• Champagne toasts on the Verandah

• Private yacht and boat cruises

• Shopping and exploring in nearby Watch Hill

   

With luxury guest rooms and individually decorated Signature Suites, your loved ones can relax in style with plush linens, marble bathrooms, and curated in-room details that make every moment feel special.

Ocean House is more than a venue. It’s a place to gather, reconnect, and celebrate in every sense of the word.

 

Photos From Ocean Hill

 

Thoughtful Touches + Upgrades

If you're looking to elevate your wedding day even further, Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island offers a curated selection of enhancements designed to wow your guests and make the day feel uniquely yours.

Here are just a few ways you can personalize the experience:

 

1. Champagne Towers & Sabering Ceremonies

Start the celebration with a little sparkle, literally. Whether you opt for a dramatic sabering moment or a vintage-inspired champagne tower, it’s an elegant and memorable way to kick off the evening.

 

2. Signature Carts for a Local Twist

Surprise and delight your guests with regional favorites like a Del’s Lemonade cart or the whimsical Below Deck cart, perfect for cocktail hour or late-night snacks.

 

3. Custom Lighting & Full Draping

Transform any space with tailored lighting and draping packages. Whether you're in the ballroom or under a sailcloth tent, custom lighting creates ambiance, drama, and intimacy after sunset.

 

4. Fireworks by the Sea

End the night with a show-stopping moment. Fireworks over the water turn your wedding into a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and make for unforgettable photos.

Each upgrade is thoughtfully executed with the same Five-Star service Ocean House is known for, giving you the freedom to dream big and enjoy every detail.

Still not sure if Ocean House is the one? We put together a list of the Best Wedding Venues in New England to help you explore other refined, scenic options before you decide.

 

Photo From Ocean Hill

 

Final Thoughts on Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island

From its historic charm to its breathtaking views and thoughtful amenities, Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island is a venue that truly offers it all. It’s the kind of place where weddings unfold with ease and beauty, surrounded by the natural elegance of New England’s coastline. Whether you're envisioning a tented celebration, a seaside ceremony, or a full weekend experience, Ocean House delivers a setting that feels both elevated and inviting.

Planning a wedding at a property with this level of detail and service requires an experienced team who understands how to bring it all together. At Verve Event Co., we specialize in planning full-service weddings that feel intentional, refined, and deeply personal. From managing vendor teams to designing cohesive, multi-day events, we help our clients host celebrations that are seamless, stylish, and completely their own.

If you’re considering a wedding at Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, I’d love to help you create something truly extraordinary. Inquire here to learn more about working together, and follow along on Instagram for planning tips, design inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at our latest celebrations.