Editors’ Choice
1606 Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Gloucester
By now, everyone knows that the fabulous deck at the Beauport Hotel, overlooking Pavilion Beach, with the mansions of Eastern Point and Two Pound Light in the distance, is the only place to be when weather is fair. Heaters and complimentary blankets ward off the chill ocean air. But with a redesign inside that grew a new oyster bar while maximizing light and sightlines, now you can cozy up indoors in a space that feels like the inside of a yacht when the weather turns foul, and watch the waves crash. 55 Commercial St., Gloucester, 978-491-5090, beauporthotel.com
Readers’ Choice
The Deck, Salisbury
This seasonal spot offers unobstructed views of the Merrimack and the many church spires of downtown Newburyport, making it especially lovely at sunset, when everything is bathed in golden light. But it’s a party any time. 179 Bridge Rd., Salisbury, 978-499-4422, thedecksalisbury.com