Honestly, most "luxury" seaside hotels in New England feel like they’re trying too hard. You know the vibe—stiff linens, overpriced lobster rolls, and a staff that looks at you funny if you walk through the lobby with sandy feet. But Beauport Hotel Gloucester hits different. Located at 55 Commercial Street, Gloucester, MA 01930, it manages to be incredibly high-end without feeling like a museum where you can't touch anything.
It’s built right on the site of the old Birds Eye fish factory. That’s a cool bit of trivia for you. Instead of frozen peas, you now have a 94-room boutique gem that basically defines the modern North Shore experience. If you’re looking for a place where you can watch the fishing fleet come in while sipping a craft cocktail from a rooftop pool, this is it.
What’s the Deal with the Location?
Gloucester is America’s oldest seaport. It’s gritty, it’s real, and it’s beautiful. The Beauport Hotel Gloucester Gloucester MA 01930 sits on Pavilion Beach, which is tucked into the inner harbor.
You’ve got two views here: the city side and the ocean side.
The city side looks over the historic downtown and the working harbor. People sometimes complain about the "city view" not being as pretty, but I disagree. Seeing the church spires and the hustle of the town is part of the charm. However, if you want that "I'm in a movie" feeling, you go for the oceanfront.
Walking distance? You’re golden. You can stroll to the famous Man at the Wheel statue (The Gloucester Fishermen's Memorial) in about five minutes. Downtown Main Street is right there too, filled with shops like The Bookstore of Gloucester and plenty of dive bars where you can hear actual sea stories.
The Rooftop is Kind of a Secret Club
Okay, it’s not actually a secret, but the Birdseye Rooftop Pool & Bar is definitely the crown jewel. Here is the thing: it’s strictly 21+ for guests. This is a massive win if you’re trying to avoid a splash zone situation while reading your book.
🔗 Read more: The Eloise Room at The Plaza: What Most People Get Wrong
- The Pool: It’s seasonal (usually closed Nov-March), but when it’s open, it feels like a Caribbean resort dropped into the middle of a Massachusetts fishing port.
- The Vibe: Fire pits, comfortable loungers, and a view of the Atlantic that goes on forever.
- The Drinks: They do a great job with seasonal stuff. Think spicy margaritas or local brews from nearby Notch or Rockport Brewing Co.
The hot tub stays open even when the pool is chilly, which is the move if you're visiting in the "shoulder season" like October or April.
Dining at 1606 Restaurant & Oyster Bar
You don't even have to leave the building to eat well. The onsite restaurant, 1606 Restaurant & Bar, is named after the year Samuel de Champlain mapped the harbor. It’s elegant but not stuffy.
The menu is basically a love letter to local seafood. Their clam chowder is legit—thick but not floury—and the lobster rolls are served on buttery brioche. If you aren't into seafood, the "Pavilion Burger" with tomato jam is a sleeper hit.
One thing people miss: They do a killer Sunday Brunch. If you can snag a table on the outdoor deck (which has heaters, thank God), do it. Watching the morning mist lift off the water while you have a mimosa is basically peak vacation.
Is it Worth the Price Tag?
Let’s be real. It isn't cheap. You’re looking at $300 to $600+ a night depending on the season and the room type.
💡 You might also like: TSA PreCheck Look Up Number: What Most People Get Wrong
But you have to look at the "hidden" perks. They have a complimentary house car that will drop you off anywhere within a 3-mile radius. That means you don't have to worry about parking in downtown Gloucester, which is a nightmare in July. They also give you free bicycles. Riding a beach cruiser out to Eastern Point Lighthouse or over to Stage Fort Park is the best way to see the coast.
The rooms themselves are "coastal chic." No tacky anchors or blue-and-white stripes everywhere. It’s subtle—sand-colored carpets, high-end L’Occitane products in the bathrooms, and beds that feel like clouds. Most rooms have balconies, and honestly, if you're staying here, pay the extra for the balcony. Sitting out there at 6:00 AM with a coffee from the in-room Keurig while the sun comes up? Priceless.
Weddings and "The Beauport Glow"
If you’ve seen a wedding on Instagram in the last five years, there’s a 40% chance it was at the Beauport. The Beauport Grand Ballroom has floor-to-ceiling windows and an Oceanside Terrace.
It’s a machine. They do weddings incredibly well. But a pro tip: if you’re a regular guest staying on a Saturday night, be prepared for some noise and a lot of people in formal wear in the lobby. It’s a "happening" place. If you want total silence and isolation, maybe pick a Tuesday in November.
Real Talk: The Pros and Cons
Nothing is perfect, even a 4-star boutique hotel.
📖 Related: Historic Sears Building LA: What Really Happened to This Boyle Heights Icon
The Good:
- Unbeatable views of the harbor and coastline.
- The rooftop pool is a rare find in New England.
- Service is surprisingly personal. They remember your name.
- Direct access to Pavilion Beach for a quick sunset walk.
The Not-So-Good:
- Parking is $15/night (valet or self), which feels a bit "city" for a beach town.
- The beach right in front (Pavilion) is a bit rocky and small compared to Good Harbor or Wingaersheek.
- Breakfast isn't usually included in the room rate.
Things You Must Do Nearby
If you’re staying at Beauport Hotel Gloucester, don't just stay in the hotel (though it’s tempting).
- Hammond Castle Museum: Just a 10-minute drive away. It’s a medieval castle built by an eccentric inventor. It’s weird, beautiful, and slightly spooky.
- Whale Watching: Capt Bill & Sons is right around the corner. If you haven't seen a humpback whale in person, you’re missing out.
- Rocky Neck Art Colony: The oldest working art colony in the US. Great galleries and little restaurants like The Rudder.
- Stage Fort Park: Perfect for a picnic or just walking the trails. It has a lot of history (it was the site of the first settled fishing plantation in 1623).
Actionable Steps for Your Stay
- Book Early: This place sells out months in advance for summer weekends.
- Request a High Floor: The views are better from the 3rd floor than the 1st or 2nd, especially on the harbor side.
- Check the Calendar: Gloucester has amazing festivals like St. Peter’s Fiesta in June. The hotel is at the center of the action, which is fun but loud.
- Use the Shuttle: Seriously, let the house car take you to Good Harbor Beach. It saves you the $30+ parking fee at the beach and the headache of finding a spot.
The Beauport Hotel Gloucester Gloucester MA 01930 isn't just a place to sleep. It’s a gateway to Cape Ann. Whether you’re here for a wedding, a romantic weekend, or just to escape the humidity of Boston, it’s one of those rare spots that actually delivers on what the photos promise. Pack a light jacket—even in July, the ocean breeze gets chilly at night.