The Beachead is the island’s easy yes: close to the beach, porch aimed at the water, a menu that keeps the seafood purists and the burger contingent equally quiet. When someone in your group asks “where should we just… go?” — this is the answer that never starts an argument.
What it’s like
Two of the island’s better outdoor rooms — a garden patio and a porch with sweeping ocean views — wrapped around a kitchen doing classic New England with a creative streak. The chowder and lobster roll hold down the traditional end; seared scallops, oysters, and grilled swordfish carry the fresh-off-the-boat argument; and the non-seafood side of the menu is a real menu, not an afterthought.
And bring the dog. The Beachead has taken Most Dog-Friendly Spot in the island’s Best on the Block voting two years running — water bowls out, no fuss made, dogs treated like the regulars they clearly are. (The full dog-travel guide covers the beaches and leash rules.)
The move
Post-beach lunch on the patio: you’re steps off Crescent Beach’s sand, the drinks list has local beer and a proper cocktail, and nobody minds that everyone at the table is slightly damp. At golden hour, the porch is a legitimate contender in the sunset-drinks rotation.