Following up on a $35-million overhaul in 2010, Hyatt Regency Newport rolled out the next phase of renovations last week with the debut of the new Pineapples by the Bay outdoor seasonal restaurant (open every day starting June 10). What was once a small grilling shack is now a full-service bar and kitchen, with seating for 17 at the wraparound bar and additional tables set up on the adjoining patio.

Thanks to the new digs, Pineapples’ menu also received an upgrade. Options range from casual burgers and apps (be sure to try the lobster quesadillas) to full meals like swordfish and grilled rib-eye steak. Don’t skimp on dessert – the bittersweet chocolate cake and Key West cake (a twist on Key Lime pie, with a ginger spice cake instead of crust) are phenomenal.

The latest renovation also doubled the size of the outdoor pool deck.

As is fitting for this coastal town, the hotel is not your typical Hyatt tower – its sleek shape almost resembles a boat. Hyatt Regency’s 257 rooms are divided among three sections, each with slightly different room categories and configurations, and a whopping 85 percent have water views. I’d recommend the ground-floor rooms in the Captain’s Quarters that have private balconies with views of Narragansett Bay.

Situated on Goat Island just off the coast of Newport, the hotel is a bit of a walk into town but certainly doable. Hyatt also offers a complimentary van shuttle and water shuttle in the summer months. Be sure to make use of the concierge desk for the scoop on everything from where to find breakfast in town (try Belle’s Café at the Newport Shipyard) to opening hours and ticketing info for the famed Newport mansions.

Depending on the season, rates vary widely, from $79/night in low season to $500/night in peak season. There may be a two-night minimum on weekends at certain times of year, especially during popular summer festivals; last weekend marked the start of the summer season with the 30th annual Great Chowder Cook-off, and the Newport Waterfront (www.newportwaterfrontevents.com) hosts events through October. www.newport.hyatt.com

For general trip-planning information, see our Rhode Island Travel Guide.