Watch Hill

Watch Hill, a Victorian-era resort village, contains almost 2 mi of beautiful beaches. Many of its well-kept summerhouses are owned by wealthy families who have passed ownership down through generations. Boating and socializing are the top activities for Watch Hill residents (there are no rental outfitters). Bay Street is a good place to shop for jewelry, summer clothing, and antiques. The community's two vintage summer hotels, both defunct for a time, have been given new life in recent years. The Watch Hill Inn opened in 2006, and, as of this writing, the venerable Ocean House (1 Bluff Ave. 02891 401/315-5599 www.oceanhouseri.com) has been completely rebuilt in its classic Victorian style and is slated to open in summer 2010. It will contain 50 luxury rooms (plus 23 residential units), a full-service spa, and two restaurants.