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Sweet summer escape on Newport Harbor

Photo gallery for Sweet summer escape on Newport Harbor

Lilypads upper deck 30 feet long. Great for relaxing under the sun or stars
Relax with the cross breezes in one of these lounge chairs
View of the shady cool front deck when you have had too much sun.
Walking in from the front deck
the galley for great cooking

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4950 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor Space
  • Breakfast available
  • Parking available
  • Beach view

Explore the area

View in a map
Newport, RI
  • Place, Fort Adams State Park
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Newport Harbour
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Thames Street
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Airport, Providence, RI (PVD-T.F. Green)
    ‪49 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Sweet summer escape on Newport Harbor

Newport has always been a vacation destination. While the City by the sea offers a host of accommodations, why not make this vacation a unique experience with your very own home on the water aboard the Lilypad, a charming, spacious houseboat moored in beautiful Newport Harbor. You can't get much closer to the sea unless you are a fish!

Start your day with a fresh cup of coffee while taking in the view of the harbor through the broad windows that offer a constant changing seascape. Swim in the refreshing salt water off of Lilypads deck. Stretch out and relax in the sun on the spacious top deck, then as early evening arrives enjoy a sunset drink as the sky turns a dusky pink or with any luck "red sky at night sailors delight". If you want to take in the action in downtown Newport , no need to drive, Lilypad offers free water taxi service to down town and back to the houseboat, just minutes away. So you can enjoy the evening without worry of traffic and who will be the designated driver. An added bonus is the water taxi across the harbor gets you up and close to many of the magnificent yachts, both sail and power, and under a full moon it can't be beat. Or if peace is what your soul craves, just relax with a book aboard the Lilypad, pausing to glance up at various sailboats that make their way to a day of sailing at sea.
If you book the Lilypad July 4th week. You will have front row and top deck seating on board to view Newport's fantastic display of ceremonial fireworks under the stars! For the music enthusiasts the Newport Folk and Jazz festivals are some of the best in the world. Which are held at Historical Fort Adams State Park. Lilypad is moored next to Fort Adams. The water taxi runs by the hour and rate is $4.00 per person per ride. It will pick up you and your guests from the Lilypad bring you to the festivals, downtown and back to the Lilypad.
Of course, this being a houseboat, you need to be mindful of services we take for granted on land. Be conscious of your water consumption, become friendly with on board generator when running various appliances... but all this your affable hostess Danielle will explain when she greets you on board and is just a phone call away.

Make your next trip to Newport an adventure to remember, every resort offers hotel accommodations, but how often do you get to live on a houseboat?

Feel free to bring your own provisions and cook on board. If you prefer not to cook we can provide catering/provisioning for small intimate dinners, birthday and cocktail parties!

There is a charming boating community within the marina. Filled with classic sailboats and powerboats of all sizes. While staying onboard during this time period you will have access to a indoor, heated pool and sauna. You will also be in walking distance to great restaurants, stylish boutiques and historical landmarks. Enjoy the views from Lilypads upper deck of Newport Harbor and the colorful sunsets of the cooler season. There are a lot of festivals and events to enjoy during the fall and winter months and the city by the sea is beautifully decorated for the holiday season.

Keywords: Houseboat
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

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House Rules

Flexible check-in available (contact host in advance of arrival)
Flexible check-out available (contact host to arrange)
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
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Events

Events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events are allowed on site
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

About the neighborhood

Newport

Located by the ocean, this houseboat is in Fifth Ward, a neighborhood in Newport. Newport Mansions and The Breakers are notable landmarks, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Thames Street and Bowen's Wharf. International Tennis Hall of Fame and Museum and Warzone Paintball & Airsoft Park are also worth visiting. Kayaking and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding and hiking nearby.
View more Houseboats in NewportOpens in a new window
Map
Newport, RI

What's nearby

  • Ocean Drive Historic District - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Fort Adams State Park - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Newport Harbour - 6 min drive - 3.6 km
  • Thames Street - 7 min drive - 4.6 km
  • Bowen's Wharf - 10 min drive - 5.7 km

Getting around

  • Newport Ferry Station - 17 min drive
  • Newport, RI (NPT-Newport State) - 28 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Wally’s Weiners - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Ocean And Fifth Cafe - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪O'Brien's Pub - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Thames Street Kitchen - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Beaucoup Cafe - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Sweet summer escape on Newport Harbor have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool. Pool types include heated pools.

How much does it cost to stay at Sweet summer escape on Newport Harbor?

As of Apr 28, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sweet summer escape on Newport Harbor on Jul 3, 2026 start from $539, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is Sweet summer escape on Newport Harbor pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

Where is Sweet summer escape on Newport Harbor located?

Located in Fifth Ward, this houseboat is steps from Ocean Drive Historic District and Fort Adams State Park. Newport Country Club and Newport Harbour are also within 3 mi (5 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 65 out of 77 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 77 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 77 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 77 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 77 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Danielle was the perfect host. We loved our stay on the Lilypad. Would definitely come back again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jackie P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Why would you stay in a hotel?! Staying on the Lily Pad was a great experience! Clean, comfortable and convenient! Super easy to get to town in the water taxi! The host was very nice and accommodating! We will be back!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sean

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Staying on the houseboat was wonderful. Danielle is an amazing and attentive host. I look forward to staying again.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Craig C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Let’s start with Danielle; an amazing host and communicator. Worked with us on arrival and departure times, met us at property to run us through everything. She was fantastic! The pictures do not do this property justice; it’s an amazing House Boat in a stunning location. Spotless, comfortable, and outfitted with everything you would need. It’s was an unbelievable experience with a fanatics owner and I highly recommend it!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

ROBERT R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spectacular getaway.

The Lillypad was just offshore but felt like a private retreat. Water shuttle to and from town was outstanding. Highly recommend this destination.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lauren R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Getaway

We had a lovely time, and the host was very attentive and accessible. It was great location with easy access to downtown via water taxi.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely Lilypad

Fantastic one night stay for our little family. An experience we will remember! Beautiful, clean boat and fantastic hostess, Danielle, made it a fun time! Loved taking the water taxi into Newport in the evening as well.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Theodore O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

4th on the Lilypad

The houseboat was a lot of fun. Fantastic views of the fireworks from the fort. Danielle is a great host and was very helpful and responsive. Taking the water taxi into town was also fun!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patrick P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My wife and I had a great time at Lillypad. On the first night, we brought wine and a charcuterie board onboard and had a romantic evening. On the second day, we went into town and had a wonderful day. Both nights, the sunsets were gorgeous.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christine C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Houseboat Getaway

Our stay on the Lily Pad was fantastic and so relaxing!!! All communication with Danielle was excellent - very responsive and helpful! The water taxi service was also great - just give a call for pick up and they'll be there. For those that love the water and want a great escape, the Lily Pad is the place!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

Such a fun little adventure to spend a night on a houseboat in Newport Harbor. Everything was as expected and very clean and comfortable. Danielle’s communication and availability was amazing!!
Stayed 1 night in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Connie E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Alternative Adventure

We usually stay in a hotel when visiting Newport and we thought the Lilypad would provide a different experience, and it did. It is definitely a glamping experience. Bring all your camping skills and enjoy all the Lilypad has to offer. Danielle is a wonderful host and will make you feel at home.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing Harbor Getaway

We stayed at the Lily Pad for the 4th of July holiday. Danielle met us and showed us around. This is a great way to spend a few days, particularly if you like swimming and fishing. The views were beautiful! Because the houseboat is not located on the shore, you need to plan around a water taxi to get to and from the Lilypad. We would definitely come back again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Meredith W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Newport

We enjoyed visiting Newport this way. The rustic nature of the boat was both fun and challenging. If you’re not ready to live on a boat (ie start a generator, limit water, and potentially have only cold water); this might not be for you. We loved the view and enjoyed the two days.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robyn L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Houseboat

The Lilypad was the perfect spot for some friends and I to stay at for the Newport Craft Brew 5k. Danielle was very flexible with check in, and explained everything about how the boat works very clearly. The houseboat was clean and had unrivaled views of the marina, as well as being the perfect spot to relax and see the stars at night. The water taxi was also very easy to use to take us either to Fort Adams or into town. We had a fantastic time, and would definitely stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carlene T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best View in Newport

I've been coming to Newport every summer and this was my first time staying on a houseboat. The Lilypad offers a serene escape from the hustle & bustle and yet it is only a 10 minute ride on the water taxi to get to downtown. We enjoyed the commute through the harbor and appreciated our solitude away from the crowds at night. You will catch the most amazing sunrise over the water! Danielle is a gracious hostess who will ensure that the client is satisfied!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shayna G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Much needed peace!

I was pleasantly surprised at the relaxation and contentment we found on the waterlily. Danielle went above and beyond to keep us happy even when there were issues with water pressure. The only thing I wouldve loved was maybe a private way to just traversing the bay without using the taxi. Other than that, lovvvvvved it 100%
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Double Birthday Celebration

My boyfriend and I have birthdays one day apart so we decided to go on a quick getaway. Our stay on the Liliypad houseboat on Newport RI harbor was relaxing, fun, private, and unique. We lived getting up early to see the sunrise and drink our coffee on the deck. A water taxi was available to take us to the Harborside to enjoy a wonderful meal at one of the great restaurants there. No driving or parking to worry about. Just jump on the water taxi and they brought us back to the houseboat! Our host Danielle was so helpful, friendly, and always available. I recommend this unique getaway to everyone. You will love it!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Jen s.

Hidden Gem In Plain Sight!

The Lilipad was the perfect combination of a quaint B&B while being securely moored on a spacious Boat, in the most beautiful Harbor, Brenton Cove! She's nicely decorated beach-style inside and so roomy with an aft deck, plus her top deck is the full length and width of the boat - ideal to take in the sunset or stars! What a romantic get-away we had! Danielle gave us perfect directions to get there via the easy and convenient Old Port Ferry system in Newport and had a few of our favorite nibbles and libations on board which we ordered as extras since we were traveling in from out of town. She was more than gracious and accommodating! This is truly a hidden gem, but right off Fort Adams in plain sight, though you feel very secluded and private. The only mistake...that we did not stay longer! We will be back!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barri B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical!!!!

Newport from a boat is an extraordinary experience !!!!! I was next to boats preparing of a race. I watched children learning to sail. The moon and the setting sun looked entirely new from the perspective of a boat. It was extraordinary I was well prepared by my host for things one does on a boat- use of a generator, proper boat etiquette which made me feel like I was being initiated into a culture and experience that has an irresistible pull. I know now why people sail and do so much just to be on the water. It is the first great sleep I have had in years- rocked by the waves in the arms of a sea breeze, The hospitality of the host is a big part of the experience- and I imagine part of boating culture. People help each other and make themselves available to work through whatever comes up.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
Verified

6/10 Okay

Beth K.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Like camping on water

We stayed at the Lilypad for the Folk Music Festival. Location was perfect for that. We had zero commute time to/from the venue because we could just call the water taxi to drop us off or pick us up, which when we stayed was $4/pp including kids and the taxi drivers DO expect tips. We also enjoyed swimming off the boat and dock. There is one bed which was fine and one futon which has seen better days -- we ended up just putting the futon mattress on the floor because that made it slightly better. There is no power in the boat unless you run a very noisy generator, which was a little annoying -- no way to make coffee unless you turn it on, which was basically all we used it for. Overall, the place is fine. Just a couple of notes if you're staying while there's a festival at the Fort: parking can be frustrating -- even though we followed directions by parking attendants, we got a $90 ticket. Also, flood lights were on at the Fort until about 3am every night, so we didn't get to star gaze at all, which we had wanted to do. I'm sure it would have been a nicer experience without that.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Paula S.

"Wow, that was the best time ever"

With 2 grandchildren, a few stuffed animals, and our provisions for the night, we drove into Fort Adams; a gorgeous, waterfront state park in Newport, RI. Since traffic on Bellevue Avenue delayed our arrival to the water taxi, we called Danielle, the proprietor of "Lilypad,"she said "No problem" and met us with her Zodiac. We all thought that added to the adventure. We boarded the meticulously kept houseboat and Danielle explained in detail all we needed to know for cooking, plumbing, bedding,etc. and answered many questions posed by all; she showed extreme patience with the children! We enjoyed the afternoon and swam off the boat in the clear waters of Narragansett Bay. A simple call on the marine radio and the water taxi took us to Newport where we dined and shopped. Back to Lilypad in the dark of the night was thrilling for the little ones and the salt air and gentle rocking of the houseboat lulled us all to sleep. (We had worried that the children would be up until the wee hours, but not the case.) Breakfast and "mediation" on the top deck made for a fun morning and we all hated to leave. Both grandchildren exclaimed the night on the "Lilypad" was the best gift we had given them; now what to do for the other 10? Thank you, Danielle for an unforgettably beautiful time!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Anniversary stay

I surprised my wife (who grew up boating) with this stay for our anniversary weekend, and it exceeded all of our expectations. For anybody that’s never stayed on board a boat overnight, it is a bit like “glamping” (RV camping). All of the creature comforts are there (bed, running water, cookware and ample comfy seating), with a few challenges to make the stay more interesting (generator power, no heat, limited water supply… all things to be considered as part of the experience). The boat was incredibly clean (excepting that the local birds make a home of the dock) and welcoming upon arrival, and Danielle met us personally to make sure that we were comfortable and well prepared for our stay. The outdoor temperature dipped below 50 degrees at night, but we came prepared with a few extra blankets knowing that would be the case. The interior never dropped fully to those levels, and was comfortable shelter from the wind. There was ample wind during our stay (Newport harbor is known for its sailing), but the boat’s sturdy base didn’t rock much at all. The sounds of the waves and attached dock interacting was melodic and soothing throughout our stay! We brought our kayaks and launched from the nearby beach at Fort Adam’s park. We had thought that this would be our primary transportation, but the Old Port water taxi proved to be far easier and more accommodating than we’d expected. Each skipper we met was so pleasant and helpful as we explored the area.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Can't beat be in ON the water with beautiful views everywhere.

Wonderful experience returning to RI and time with my sister.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cean T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best View of Magnificent Newport Harbor

It’s a lot like glamping on water for those who like to sleep and relax with the gentle rocking of the boat. The houseboat was adorable and much cooler than being on land with it’s cross ventilation. We had an excellent view if the water and boats, enjoying views from the top deck and eater taxi. Danielle is a super responsive host, responding quickly to questions and walking us through how all the equipment worked.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

About the host

Hosted by Danielle

Host profile image
I am native Newporter and have been fortunate to have grown up in a family owned marina business here, in beautiful Newport Harbor! Not only did we have a marina but we also had a charter boat business as well which included bareboats available for overnight stays back in the 80's!
I have been chartering the Lilypad since 2009 with great pleasure. I am always excited to share Lilypad with my guests so they can experience the beauty and serenity staying on board this great escape!

Why they chose this property

The Lilypad is a cherished vessel as it has it"s own special history! I will be happy to share the story with you on board!

What makes this property unique

The unique benefits of staying on board is that the stress of daily life rolls right off of your shoulders once on board! Relaxing and taking in the ever changing views of beautiful Newport Harbor is spectacular day and night! Inhaling the fresh, salt air and swimming in the cool, salt water renews your soul. the Lilypad in in a protected area. Therefore, there is minimal rocking.

Languages:

English

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