Guest Author - Kara Williams

I know where I’d like to retreat with my husband for a kids-free weekend on my annual summer trip "back East."

blue (yes, that’s lowercase), The Inn on the Beach, exudes privacy and romance. Just 14 oceanfront suites and cottages nestled in the dunes of lovely Plum Island off the coast of Newburyport, Massachusetts, offer couples an intimate, private getaway in luxurious surroundings.

This new resort opened to the public year-round in 2007. The white décor is sleek and stylish, while plush bedding, spa robes and custom amenities pamper guests. Outdoor hot tubs allow visitors to take a relaxing beachside soak. A gas fireplace or wood-burning stove in each suite sets the stage for snuggling on a cool night. Each morning, an elegant continental breakfast is served en suite or in blue’s penthouse, with its views of the shore and salt marshes.

Fine dining, shopping and cultural activities are only minutes away in historic Newburyport, with its picturesque brick architecture, cobblestone streets and beautiful waterfront. Plum Island is connected to the mainland via a short causeway--no ferry needed!

blue offers a variety of packages to create the perfect honeymoon. The "b Romantic" package starts at $815 and includes two-night accommodations in an oceanfront suite; dinner for two at one of Newburyport’s most elegant restaurants; fresh flowers, Godiva truffles and a chilled bottle of fine wine or champagne waiting in the room; and continental breakfast served en-suite.

Couples who want to enjoy the ultimate honeymoon experience at blue can choose to "b Extravagant" with two-night accommodations in the elegant two-story Grand Salon; private dinner for two, catered by a personal chef, on blue’s beach or in the penthouse; a private sunset dinner cruise on the Ninth Wave Catamaran; daily couples massage; gourmet box lunches each day; a chilled bottle of Cristal, two dozen long stem roses, Godiva truffles, continental breakfast delivered to your room each morning, and nightly turn down service. The "Extravagant" package starts at $4,300.

blue is also heralded for its personalized service. The welcoming and attentive staff is dedicated to exceeding expectations and will gladly customize a honeymoon package to suit your taste, whether it includes private dinner atop the Newburyport Lighthouse or an outdoor adventure for two.

If I can get to blue next year, I’ll certainly let BellaOnline’s readers know how my stay was with a full hotel review. In the meantime, if anyone else gets a chance to stay at this sophisticated resort, please let us know with a post in the forum if it met your expectations!