Was just at Long Beach for a couple of nights this week, and it is a fine hotel (small and unimpressive Regency Club however) with views of the marina and water. The beach is not far away, but the pool will be underwhelming. There is nothing wrong with it, but it is a pretty basic rectangle pool. From the pool, you won't see the beach or water.

The hotel is on Pine and Ocean, so very close to lots of restaurants and bars, but Long Beach is at least 30 minutes to an hour from everywhere.

I've not been to Newport, but from what I gather, it is not on the beach or all that close to the water.