Your Guide To Group & Team Retreats

Mar 11

The Ultimate Guide to Group Accommodations

Planning a team retreat or group stay at a hotel or inn can be both exciting and challenging. Whether it’s for a corporate team-building event, a family reunion, or a friends' getaway, ensuring that everyone is comfortable and that the logistics run smoothly requires attention to detail. Bellport Inn is an ideal destination for group accommodations, offering the perfect blend of privacy, comfort, and amenities (including a private chef!) Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure your stay is enjoyable and productive.

1. Choose the Right Property for Your Group

Not all properties are equipped to handle the unique needs of a group. When booking group accommodations, prioritize properties that cater specifically to larger parties and team retreats. Bellport Inn offers three distinct spaces on one property, ensuring your group enjoys the perfect balance of togetherness and privacy. Here’s what to look for:

Private Spaces for Breakouts: Bellport Inn's three distinct areas allow for breakout sessions, individual downtime, or small-group activities without everyone crowding into the same area.
Ample Outdoor Spaces: The property features private Ho Hum beach access on Fire Island via ferry, barbecue grill, fire pit, garden, and outdoor patios, making it ideal for team gatherings, evening bonfires, and casual meals.
Group-Friendly Amenities: Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and workspaces are essential for productivity during team retreats, ensuring that everyone stays connected and comfortable.

2. Consider Everyone’s Needs (Including Dietary Restrictions)

When organizing a group stay, it’s important to consider everyone’s individual needs, especially when it comes to meals and health:

Check for Food Allergies and Preferences: Before planning group meals, send out a survey or ask everyone about dietary restrictions and food allergies. This ensures you can plan meals that are inclusive and safe for everyone.
Have Alternative Food Options Nearby: Bellport Inn is conveniently located near local grocery stores and restaurants. If someone has dietary needs that can’t be met with group meals, ensure there are nearby options to accommodate them. The property’s close proximity to Bellport Village gives you access to a variety of local dining options, including vegan, gluten-free, and organic choices.
Plan for Diverse Tastes: When preparing meals, consider a variety of cuisines to keep everyone satisfied. If cooking as a group seems daunting, Bellport Inn is near catering services and restaurants that can deliver meals or provide easy takeout options.

3. Balance Work and Play for Maximum Productivity

A well-planned team retreat balances productivity with relaxation. Bellport Inn offers the perfect environment for both:

Schedule Time for Work: Use the dedicated work areas and fast Wi-Fi to keep productivity flowing. Bellport Inn’s multiple houses mean teams can split up for brainstorming sessions, focused work, or strategic meetings without interruption.
Make Time for Fun: Team retreats shouldn’t be all work. Plan activities that encourage bonding and relaxation. Take advantage of the outdoor spaces by organizing a barbecue, setting up a volleyball net on the beach, or simply enjoying a bonfire by the firepit. These activities allow your team to recharge and foster better communication.

4. Prepare for Group Meals

Preparing meals for a large group can be challenging, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity for team-building. Bellport Inn’s private chef, well-equipped kitchens and spacious dining areas make it easy to plan meals, but here are a few tips to simplify the process:

Meal Prep and Grocery Runs: Plan meals in advance and assign different teams to handle shopping, cooking, and cleanup. Bellport Village has local grocery stores, farmers' markets, and specialty shops where you can stock up on fresh ingredients.
Group-Friendly Meals: Opt for simple, customizable meals like taco bars, pasta stations, or build-your-own pizza nights. These options allow everyone to enjoy a meal tailored to their tastes. Our Chef Jen can assist you with the perfect menu.
Backup Plans: If your group prefers not to cook, local restaurants near Bellport Inn offer catering services, or you can order takeout for larger groups. Some nearby favorites include The Bellport for casual fine dining and Café Castello for a variety of Italian dishes.

5. Things to Do Around Bellport Inn

One of the advantages of staying at Bellport Inn is its proximity to both serene outdoor spaces and lively local attractions. Whether your group prefers relaxation or exploration, there’s something for everyone nearby:

Bellport Village Marina: A short drive or stroll away, the marina offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, and scenic walks along the water. Ideal for a group excursion or solo reflection time. Ferry service to Ho Hum Beach on Fire Island is available during the summer season.
Bellport Golf Club: For teams that enjoy a more relaxed pace, Bellport Golf Club provides a beautiful setting for a round of golf or some driving range practice.
Smith Point County Park: This park features expansive beach access, nature trails, and picnic areas, making it a great spot for team-building exercises, hikes, or casual picnics.
Gateway Playhouse: Take a break from work and enjoy a live performance at this historic theater, offering a range of shows that appeal to all tastes.
Beach, Fishing and Water Sports: The nearby Great South Bay is perfect for fishing, paddleboarding, or renting a boat for a team outing.

6. Make Sure the Property Suits Your Group Size

One of the most common mistakes in booking group accommodations is underestimating how much space is needed. Bellport Inn is perfect for groups, with a four bedroom Main House, two bedroom Garden Suite and a full Cottage, providing enough room for everyone to spread out without feeling cramped. Ensure that:

Each Person Has Enough Space: Don’t overlook personal space and comfort. Make sure there are enough bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate your group size. At Bellport Inn, each accommodation offers private rooms with shared common areas.
Plan for Privacy and Collaboration: Having multiple accommodations on one property allows for privacy when needed, but also easy access for group collaboration and activities. This layout is ideal for team retreats that need a mix of focused work and downtime.

7. Book Early and Plan Ahead

Group accommodations at highly rated properties like Bellport Inn tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times. To avoid disappointment:

Book Early: Try to reserve your dates as far in advance as possible, particularly if your stay coincides with local festivals or popular travel seasons.
Check Local Events: Bellport frequently hosts arts festivals, farmers' markets, and seasonal events. Scheduling your stay around these activities can add extra value and entertainment to your retreat.

Bellport Inn is an exceptional destination for team retreats and group accommodations, offering privacy, relaxation, and access to local attractions. With these tips and tricks, your next group getaway will be seamless and enjoyable for everyone.

Ready to plan your next team retreat? Contact us today for more information on group bookings and to start planning your stay at Bellport Inn.