Rhode Island has a beautiful coastline that stretches for 40 miles and offers a variety of beaches to suit everyone’s preferences. From rocky beaches on distant islands to town beaches with great waves, there is something for everyone. While you’re here, make sure to try the famous Del’s frozen lemonade, a summer treat loved in New England.
Don’t miss out on the local Narragansett Lagers either, they are perfect for enjoying on the sandy beach or while relaxing on a deck chair. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen and beach towel and prepare yourself for an unforgettable holiday at one of Rhode Island’s best beaches.
Whether you enjoy simply lounging on the beach or seeking an adventurous surfing experience in a secluded spot, you will find the perfect spot for you here.
12. Napatree Point Beach (Westerly)
Come visit Napatree Point Beach in Rhode Island and experience the beauty of the coast. This beach is not only stunning, but it is also located in a conservation area. It is a great spot for beach lovers who also appreciate nature.
You can even spot various bird species here, especially during spring and fall when pretty shorebirds are abundant and hawks make appearances in late summer. Interestingly, if you go hiking in the Napatree Point Conservation Area, you will eventually reach Napatree Point Beach. It’s a perfect ending to a peaceful hike.
11. Sachuest Beach
The locals refer to Sachuest Beach as Second Beach. It is a family-friendly beach that stretches for a mile. The beach is great for beginners and young ones with bodyboards as there is a chance to do some light surfing. If you need gear or lessons, you can find surf rentals nearby.
The beach has a sandy shoreline and also offers grills and picnic tables. There are shaded areas available to escape the hot sun while enjoying your freshly grilled burger. Additionally, the beach is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from Newport. If your priorities are relaxation and having a good time, Sachuest Beach is the perfect destination for you.
10. East Beach (Westerly)
This charming little coastal gem divides Ninigret Pond from the chilly and briny Atlantic Ocean. East Beach is a barrier beach that stretches for three miles and is less developed compared to other state beaches in Rhode Island. There are plenty of campsites nearby, making it a great destination for a camping trip with family or friends.
Just imagine waking up a few minutes’ walk away from a beautiful sandy beach. Leave your chores behind and allow yourself to unwind at the leisurely pace of beach living. Enjoy your days reading a good book, listening to your favorite music, and regaining your summer tan.
9. Misquamicut State Beach
If you want a large beach with golden sand, this Rhode Island beach is the perfect choice! It’s great for relaxing under the sun and taking a leisurely swim in the ocean. While there are sometimes waves suitable for surfing, they are generally better for beginners.
You can come here to experience the calming sea breeze, breathtaking views, and peaceful atmosphere. Don’t worry about facilities because there is a modern pavilion at the beach’s end that offers showers, toilets, and even activities for children. Additionally, there is ample parking available.
8. Easton Beach (Newport)
The locals call this beach First Beach and it can be found at the beginning of Newport’s Cliff Walk along Memorial Boulevard. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the beach, and there are also other exciting things to do nearby.
If you have kids with you, you can take them to see a carousel from the 1950s or visit an aquarium that is right by the beach. It’s a great opportunity to see marine life up close. If you’re with friends, you can rent a board and go surfing. Whether you want a busy day or simply relax in Newport, Easton Beach is the place for you.
7. Narragansett Town Beach
The beach at Narragansett Town Beach is mostly sandy, with a few pebbles scattered around. The sunsets here are always beautiful, but they are particularly stunning as the sun goes down. You won’t have trouble finding this spot, as it is easily accessible and not secluded.
If you’re in the mood for a drink or a snack during your beach day, there is a bar called the Coast Guard House nearby. Part of the beach is reserved for surfing, so if you have a surfboard, don’t forget to bring it. Remember to also bring a wetsuit, as the Atlantic Ocean can be quite cold.
Parking at this town beach can be a bit challenging, but being close to the best restaurants and bars in Narragansett is definitely a bonus. You can enjoy delicious meals and beers right by the beach.
6. Watch Hill Beach (Westerly)
Watch Hill Beach is a charming and small beach located near the famous Flying Horse Carousel, which has been around since 1876. You can enjoy a refreshing swim in the Atlantic waters, relax on the beach, and take a break from your daily concerns.
After a leisurely morning at the beach, you can explore the delightful town of Watch Hill, which offers quaint shops and delicious ice cream. The town has a traditional New England ambiance that captivates all who visit.
With its various activities and attractions, both the town and beach will keep you entertained throughout the day, so make sure to set aside a day to visit Watch Hill Beach during your trip.
5. Mohegan Bluffs (Block Island)
The Mohegan Bluffs is a unique place that offers a combination of an island, countryside, and beach experience. Although the beach is not the typical white sand, it has rocks. However, it is still a comfortable place to swim and even surf. The most amazing thing about this beach is its location and the views it offers.
To reach the beach, you will have to walk down 141 steps, but it is definitely worth it. At the base of the 200-foot tall Mohegan Bluffs on Block Island, you can enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. On clear days, you can even see the tip of Long Island.
If you are up for an adventure, the beach is also included in the Block Island Bicycle Tour, which is perfect for cycling enthusiasts.
4. Goosewing Beach (Little Compton)
Goosewing Beach is located in Goosewing Beach Preserve near Little Compton. The beach offers sand, sea, coastal ponds, and impressive sand dunes. It’s just a quick five-minute drive from the center of Little Compton. You can spend your time at Goosewing Beach searching for beautiful seashells or enjoying a calm sunset or sunrise.
The beach has a mix of sand, pebbles, and some small rocky areas. Additionally, you have the opportunity to surf here! You can sit on the beach and listen to the soothing sounds of the waves crashing, or explore the preserve to spot two rare bird species, the Piping Plover and Least Tern, which are native to this area.
3. East Matunuck State Beach
East Matunuck State Beach is a popular destination, conveniently located less than a 15-minute drive from Charlestown. People visit this beach to take advantage of the excellent surfing opportunities it offers. However, if surfing is not your cup of tea, there is no need to worry. The long, sandy beach is an ideal spot to relax and unwind.
You can enjoy watching fishing boats pass by while taking a break from your busy life. In addition, East Matunuck is an appealing choice for environmentally conscious individuals. The beach’s pavilion is powered by renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, and they even have charging stations for electric cars.
With its beautiful scenery and eco-friendly amenities, East Matunuck State Beach in Rhode Island has something for everyone to love.
2. East Beach (Charlestown)
East Beach is a beautiful, long beach with lots of space for walking. It’s a great place to go for a romantic sunset stroll, or if you’re a fan of the orange sky at that time of day. If you want to find parking easily, it’s best to come earlier in the day as it can get full.
The limited parking actually helps to prevent the beach from becoming too crowded, so you’ll have plenty of room to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This amazing beach is located just outside of Charlestown, less than a 10 minute drive away.
It’s also conveniently close to Charleston Town Beach, so you could combine your visit to both places. You can spend the day here relaxing, or if you’re interested, you can rent a surfboard and try some surfing on the Atlantic coast.
1. Roger Wheeler State Beach
Originally, this sandy beach had a different name, but it was changed to the Roger Wheeler State Beach in 1970 in honor of Captain Roger Wheeler. Captain Wheeler was responsible for creating the Rhode Island State Life Saving System.
Many people enjoy this beach because its waters are usually calm, which is not always the case along the Atlantic coast. It is especially popular among families who want to have a relaxing time in the water, without dealing with strong waves or surfing.
Families love this beach because it offers a playground and a beach pavilion with an informative section on conservation and environmental protection. There is a parking lot right next to the beach, but keep in mind that it can get crowded.
