Hotel Moraine
North Fork, Hamptons
A luxurious North Fork retreat is the perfect escape for a posh family getaway.
When it comes to packing the family up for a beach weekend, the Hamptons get all the buzz. But you’ll find arguably greater rewards on the other side of the Long Island Expressway by venturing to the North Fork, where a low-key vibe prevails: Think poetic, craggy shorelines, relaxed family beach days, bike rides along the bay, and dramatic sunset views.
For a truly singular North Fork beach experience, stay at the newly opened Hotel Moraine (hotelmoraine.com), a thoughtfully designed, family-friendly, boutique luxury property, where you can access your own private stretch of shoreline. The hotel’s darling pocket beach, decked out with stylish wooden beach chairs and cheerful striped umbrellas, is a sublime place to sun in style, offering gentle bay waters perfect for young swimmers. (If you’re craving more beach time, the hotel is also just a few miles from two local favorites, Town Beach in Southold and 67 Steps Beach in Greenport.)
True to its motto, “Where the land meets the sea,” Hotel Moraine sits on three acres of rolling lawn culminating in a bluff overlooking the Long Island Sound. The property’s spa-like, minimalist design is inspired by the rugged natural beauty of the coastline and features soothing colors and organic textures throughout. Unobstructed water views are on display through the massive lobby windows that look straight onto the Sound, from the saltwater Gunite pool and surrounding deck and patio seating areas, on the great lawn (dotted with cozy chat spots featuring Adirondack chairs and fire pits), from the standalone cottage that functions as a game room/lounge area/private dining space, and in every one of the 20 guest rooms.
Here’s the best part: Hotel Moraine effortlessly combines airy, modern elegance, and elevated concierge-level service while offering a family-friendly vibe. Kids get the royal treatment — daily games and activities, ice cream by the pool, s’mores nights, kids’ bath amenities and toys in the rooms — plus portable cribs if needed. Adults are pampered with Bellino linens, Anatome bath products, plush robes, and Lavazza coffee machines. Fireplaces, private terraces, soaking tubs, and the option for adjoining rooms add to the appeal. Families can also enjoy poolside dining and cocktails, plus daily continental breakfast and coffee.
From the hotel, take a quick drive or hop on one of Hotel Moraine’s complimentary bikes and head into Greenport, an idyllic town filled with boutique shopping, art galleries, a diverse array of restaurants (the newly renovated Claudio’s is a waterfront must), and even an antique carousel.
Be sure to leave some time to explore the area’s agricultural bounty as well: farms, farmers markets, and farm stands abound; Lavender by the Bay is a gorgeous stop for all things lavender; and the North Fork’s iconic wineries are a huge draw. Sip away at more than 60 different tasting rooms, including notable names like Macari, Kontokosta, Bedell, Sparkling Pointe, and Croteaux. The whole family will feel rejuvenated by the time you get back to Westchester. —AR
Seasonal rates begin at $510/night and are subject to change.
British Colonial
Nassau, Bahamas
A historic Bahamian hotel reopens in the heart of downtown Nassau.
No, not that Nassau. The warmer one, far, far away from the turmoil of the Long Island Expressway. Blessed with blue skies and a private beach, guests of the recently rechristened British Colonial (britishcolonial.com) would be excused from thinking their accommodations were miles from port. But the century-old historic property sits squarely in the heart of downtown Nassau — easy walking distance to the island’s famed straw markets, many restaurants, and pristine, far-flung sands.
Newly renovated and reopened, the 288-guest room hotel boasts seven eateries for round-the-clock dining, a gym and fitness center so you can get your pump on before lounging in front of the twin freshwater pools, and a dedicated sports concierge to help organize any off-site adventures that beckon you. Fuel your day with breakfast al fresco, overlooking the lapping waves, or pick up a quick bite and a java from Tamarind Market Place, just steps away from the hotel lobby.
Whether your speed is “swim with the sharks” or “food and beverage walking tour” through the island’s renowned restaurants and distilleries, British Colonial is the ideal home base to explore all the Bahamas have to offer. A typical excursion might include a day of snorkeling, jet skiing, fishing, golfing, or accessing the St. Somewhere Spa at the nearby Margaritaville Beach Resort.
Guest rooms retain plenty of island charm — and immaculate ocean views — alongside all the modern amenities one would expect from an upscale hotel, a theme continued throughout British Colonial’s picturesque, shared spaces. From sipping cocktails on the beach at sunset, transition to the hotel’s Woodes Rogers Tavern, which transforms into a hopping lounge and martini bar once you ditch the watch and reset to Island Time. Step out onto the property’s cigar lounge for a Cuban or locally rolled stogie, take in a crackling oceanside fire pit, or grab a seat amongst the rich, earthy hues of The Mahogany Club, where fine dining meets traditional Bahamian cuisine.
Island hospitality isn’t reserved solely for vacationers: British Colonial’s multiple, ample entertaining spaces make it an idyllic backdrop for your wedding or other major functions. (It’s said that every Bahamian has a prom or wedding photo taken on the hotel’s iconic double staircase.)
And if you meet a 50-something macaw named Max, tell him we sent you. —DZ
Seasonal rates begin at $239/night and are subject to change.
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