Emerson Inn by the Sea

The Emerson is a picturesque inn perched on the ocean, steeped in history and charm. It’s the perfect place to unwind and escape the everyday. Their on-site restaurant is truly exceptional. We started with the four-cheese plate which is easily the best I’ve ever had, followed by delicious appetizers: oysters Rockefeller and a crisp, flavorful Caesar salad. For our main courses, my husband enjoyed the baked haddock while I savored the rich, hearty beef bourguignon. They were both were delicious! Great job the chef! To finish, we shared a slice of decadent chocolate cake and sipped High Tide martinis, all while taking in the stunning ocean view. It was a perfect evening in a truly special setting.

...our mindful pause at Emerson Inn By The Sea was truly wonderful. My husband and I so appreciated the incredible hospitality and kindness we experienced by the staff who welcomed us to this beautiful quintessential New England Inn - truly - a hidden gem. The Emerson is an opportunity to experience New England history. We visited in May, pre-season, so the restaurant was not open, however, the hostess Roberta; kindly recommended a fabulous traditional New England dining option a few minutes away in Rockport which was so delicious... We especially loved the amazing view from the vast porch space - following dinner and a game of cards in the Parlor Bar (fyi: I really enjoyed sipping the amazing local Pilsner: Piscano by Rockport Brewery) -- we discovered a row of inviting rocking chairs to pause; experience and just be on the porch. We enjoyed this quiet time for almost two hours, we were offered soft, warm blankets as we sipped our wonderful libations from the beautiful PARLOR Bar which is open to the public offering live music and interesting experiences... This was an anniversary adventure we will never forget as we experienced a most peaceful and beautiful sunset listening to the waves on the porch... Before departing in the morning, we especially appreciated meeting the inn owner - her passion, vision to enhance the already beautiful property and love as owner and steward to this amazing inn was remarkable. She has mindfully designed the interior space to honor the history of this remarkable building with an eclectic collection of antiques and contemporary decor. The guests rooms are typical of New England Inns - small yet well appointed - and very clean. I was so grateful to witness the beautiful sunrise from our room window as well.... Perhaps you too are mindful of supporting small, local, women owned businesses - this is a gentle nudge to visit the website and plan a little get away soon - I highly recommend Emerson Inn By The Sea for your next mindful pause... Your destiny awaits... Mikki Lessard Sanctuary Soul to Soul

Nestled along the rugged coastline of New England, this boutique hotel is the perfect blend of history, elegance, and seaside tranquility. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by the salty breeze and the warm glow of a beautifully restored building that exudes charm and character. The location couldn’t be better, the hotel offers breathtaking ocean views from nearly every corner. Whether enjoying morning coffee on the veranda or watching the sunrise paint the sky from your room, the panorama is nothing short of spectacular. The hotel’s restaurant showcases New England flavors at their finest, with fresh seafood caught daily and locally sourced ingredients woven into inventive yet comforting dishes. Whether savoring buttery lobster sliders, creamy seafood casserole, or a steaming bowl of clam chowder, every bite feels like a love letter to the region’s rich culinary heritage. While deeply rooted in history, the hotel seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern amenities. The décor creates a sense of place that feels both inviting and sophisticated. Cozy nooks and locally inspired artwork make every space feel thoughtfully curated. Clean rooms with very comfortable beds and the service from arrival to departure was wonderful. For anybody seeking an unforgettable escape, this New England coastal retreat delivers in every way. The stunning scenery, impeccable dining, and undeniable character make it a destination worth returning to. Whether visiting for a romantic getaway, a writer’s retreat, or simply a quiet moment by the sea, this hotel is a true hidden gem.

We had an extremely disappointing stay at your establishment. The room was unbearably hot, making it nearly impossible to sleep, leaving us exhausted by the end of our stay. Although a fan was provided, it did little to improve the air circulation. Even after opening the windows, the room never cooled down. Despite assurances from Sara that the air conditioning was turned on, we returned to find the room still uncomfortably warm. Upon asking again, we were informed that the system had been switched back to heat. Oddly when you walked in the hallway, it was several degrees cooler. This level of miscommunication and lack of control over the room’s temperature is unacceptable. Additionally, we discovered mold in the heating and cooling system. While efforts were made to clean it, traces remained, which is concerning. This stay was a far cry from our previous experience two years ago when we enjoyed a made-to-order breakfast and a much more comfortable environment. Unfortunately, what was once a wonderful experience has now been overshadowed by these issues. The only positive was the new addition at ground level, which we did appreciate. However, overall, we left feeling deeply disappointed. Your staff are awesome and the location is awesome, but if you have a miserable stay that all goes for not!

This is a jem in an beautiful New England town. Charming, elegant and Kimbery is an amazing host. Sunrise is the most beautiful I've seen overlooking the beautiful ocean. If you time it right, you could see whales off the shore. Must go! cute shops nearby.