A 16-minute drive northeast of downtown Newport brings golfers to Newport National (main image), an Arthur Hills design that rambles across 200 acres and abuts protected wetlands and bird sanctuaries. The 7,244-yard layout is mostly buffeted by the wind, but its undulating greens and lush, native grasses lining the edges of playing corridors keep golfers in check. Peak-season greens fees ($175) may seem high given the lack of a driving range and the fact that the clubhouse is a modestly outfitted double-wide; however, Newport National’s immaculate course conditions justify the cost of entry.

Green Valley Country Club, located six miles north of downtown Newport, is the epitome of parkland golf in New England. In the mid-1990s, the club became the state’s first public course to host both the Rhode Island Amateur and the Rhode Island Open. Another six miles to the north, Montaup Country Club offers a challenging test with its narrow, tree-lined fairways and small, raised greens—two features that reflect the 6,538-yard layout’s 1920s origins.

Stay

Once the mansion of Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt, the Vanderbilt from Auberge Resorts sparkles for its sense of history and its location a short walk from the shops and restaurants that line Thames Street. The rooftop deck and whiskey room make for an ideal retreat following a day spent out on the links.

Castle Hill Inn is spread out across more acres (40) than there are guest rooms (33). The Relais & Châteaux property is positioned on a point about four miles from downtown and boasts half a mile of private shoreline. Its gently sloped lawn, outfitted with Adirondack chairs, is the best place in town to relax by the water.

Eat

Local and uber-seasonal ingredients dictate the ever-changing menu at TSK (Thames Street Kitchen), where mission-cut rib eyes are the can’t-miss attraction. As cocktails go, TSK takes a refreshingly simple approach, grouping its libations into three categories: martinis, Negroni drinks, and fancy drinks. Order the mezcal drink. Better yet, order two.

Adventurous diners will get their fill at Cara, the fine-dining restaurant at the Chanler, a boutique hotel at the end of the cliff walk. Chef Jacob Jasinski produces five- and eight-course blind-tasting menus comprising avant-garde dishes that change daily. The kitchen team presents the fare tableside to explain each dish.