Visit Rhode Island Best Beaches

Are you looking for a summer vacation destination where you will be greeted by blue seas, golden sands, fresh air and delicious seafood? If yes, then Rhode Island is nothing less than a paradise for you! RI has small beautiful coastal towns and beaches nestled in the smallest state of America. The beaches are famous for their serene beauty, family atmosphere, water sports and great food places. There is something for every traveler here – whether you are looking for a relaxing break alone, an adventure with friends, or planning a fun vacation with your family.

Let’s know about 20 amazing beaches that will give you a memorable experience!

Find the Rhode Island Best & Beautiful Beaches

1. Scarborough State Beach – Narragansett

Scarborough Beach is a perfect amalgamation of beauty and amenities. Its stretching sandy beach, blue waves and surrounding rocky scenery make it perfect for both photography and relaxation. The atmosphere here is lively and cheerful, especially in summer.

FACILITIES:
Public restrooms, lifeguards, showers, and picnic areas are available here. There is a nominal fee for entry and parking in the summer.

PLACES TO EAT:
For eating, there are seafood spots nearby like Iggy’s Doughboys and Aunt Carrie’s, where you can enjoy the local flavor.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Beach volleyball, swimming and sunbathing are also special attractions for children and youth.

2. East Matunuck State Beach – South Kingstown

This beach is perfect for surfing enthusiasts. Strong waves, clear water and long coast make it special for thrill-lovers.

FACILITIES:
There are lifeguards, showers, and snack stalls here. Tickets are charged for parking and entry.

PLACES TO EAT:
The nearby Matunuck Oyster Bar is a famous restaurant that serves fresh seafood.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
On the beach, you can enjoy surfing, building sandcastles and walking on the seashore.

3. Narragansett Town Beach – Narragansett

A classic, clean and well-maintained beach that is very popular among families and swimming lovers. White sand, clear water and well-organized facilities make it special. The old lighthouse and rolling waves visible in front of the beach create an attractive scene.

FACILITIES:
This beach has a special surfing zone, toilets, dressing rooms and lifeguard services. There is an entrance fee for non-residents.

PLACES TO EAT:
Nearby are restaurants like Trio and Crazy Burger that offer both taste and view.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Surfing, beach volleyball and family picnics are very popular here.

4. Oakland Beach – Warwick

A quiet and family-friendly beach, especially suitable for children. The sea view here is mesmerizing, especially at sunset. There are also events like live music, car shows and fairs held here in the summer.

FACILITIES:
Lifeguards, restrooms and walking walkways are also available. Parking is available and admission is free.

PLACES TO EAT:
Great options like Iggy’s Doughboys and Top of the Bay are nearby.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Play areas for children, crab hunting and ice cream are a great way to enjoy this beach.

5. East Beach – Charlestown

A paradise for nature lovers, this beach is relatively quiet and less crowded. It is located near the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge and is ideal for bird watching and walking trails.

FACILITIES:
Facilities are limited but lifeguards are present. There is a fee for parking.

PLACES TO EAT:
Dining options include Hungry Haven and The Nordic Lodge nearby.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Setting up a tent and watching the sunrise and taking long walks can be a special experience.

6. Easton’s Beach – Newport

The largest and most active beach in Newport. There’s a playground, carousel, marine museum, and picnic tables for kids.

FACILITIES:
Lifeguards and rental services are available. Parking fees are charged.

PLACES TO EAT:
Famous dining spots include Flo’s Clam Shack and Atlantic Grill.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Offer family outings, water activities, and a chance to learn about marine life.

7. Gooseberry Beach – Newport

Located on Ocean Drive, this beach is quiet, safe, and perfect for families. Limited public access is allowed despite being privately owned. Clean water, picnic tables, and food stands are available. Parking tickets may be required.

PLACES TO EAT:
The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn nearby offers a fine dining option.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Snorkeling, swimming, and walking along the beach are some of the top activities here.

8. Blue Shutters Beach – Charlestown

This beach is a hidden gem that offers a feel of nature and tranquility. It is close to the Ninigret Refuge, making it ideal for bird watching and photography. There are limited amenities – lifeguards, showers, restrooms are available. Parking pass required.

PLACES TO EAT:
Great dining options are nearby The Breachway Grill and Hungry Haven.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:

9. Napatree Point Conservation Area – Westerly

This beach is perfect for nature lovers. A long trail, sandy shore and wildlife make it special. There are no restrooms, food stands, so plan ahead. There is no admission fee.

PLACES TO EAT:
Olympia Tea Room and St. Clair Annex are popular nearby in Watch Hill.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Hiking, bird watching and beachcombing are the main attractions here.

10. Bristol Town Beach – Bristol

This is a small but well-maintained beach where families can spend time with the kids. There are picnic tables, lifeguards, volleyball courts and restrooms. Admission is by pass or membership pass.

PLACES TO EAT:
There are restaurants like Quito’s and DeWolf Tavern nearby.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Swimming, barbecue and fishing can be enjoyed here.

11. Watch Hill Beach – Westerly

This beach is very popular among the elite class and is also famous for being Taylor Swift’s home. It has white sand, deep sea and a calm atmosphere. There are lifeguards and some basic facilities. Entry is through tickets.

PLACES TO EAT:
Luxury dining can be enjoyed at Olympia Tea Room and The Ocean House nearby.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Great place for relaxation, peace and romantic walks.

12. South Shore Beach – Little Compton

This beach is known for its remote and quiet atmosphere. The large rocks and strong ocean waves make it unique. There are limited facilities but lifeguards are present.

PLACES TO EAT:
The Barn and Crowther’s Restaurant are good options nearby.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Photography, fishing and relaxing on the sand are the main attractions here.

13. Third Beach – Middletown

This beach is great for children and the elderly due to calm and safe waters. There are lifeguards, bathhouses and boat ramps. There is a fee for parking.

PLACES TO EAT:
Fresh food is available at Sweet Berry Farm and Mission Middletown nearby.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Kayaking, swimming and picnicking are popular activities here.

14. Mohegan Bluffs – New Shoreham (Block Island)

This beach is famous for its cliff heights and stunning views of the blue ocean below. You have to climb down 141 steps to reach here. There are no facilities, but the view is unforgettable.

PLACES TO EAT:
Food and music can be enjoyed at Ballard’s Beach Bar nearby.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Hiking and photography are the main attractions here.

15. East Ferry Beach – Jamestown

A small but charming beach from where you can see the view of boats and ferries.

PLACES TO EAT:
Jamestown Shopping District and restaurants like Simpatico are nearby.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Watching the sunset and taking a light walk on the beach is special here.

16. Atlantic Beach Park – Westerly

This is a fun-filled place for children and families. There are rides, games and snack stalls. Lifeguard service and clean washrooms are available.

PLACES TO EAT:
Two Little Fish and Paddy’s Beach Club are great food spots nearby.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Water sports, kids rides and live music are the main attractions here.

17. Bailey’s Beach – Newport

This is an elite and private beach that is open only to members or guests. Known for its historic and quiet atmosphere.

PLACES TO EAT:
Spiced Pear and The Chanler are great dining places nearby.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Exclusive experience, tranquility and classic ambiance are the hallmarks of this place.

18. Westerly Town Beach – Westerly

Clean, well-maintained and popular with locals, this beach is suitable for all age groups. Facilities include lifeguards, parking and snack shops. Entrance fee is charged.

PLACES TO EAT:
Andrea Seaside Restaurant and Sandy’s Fine Food are great options nearby.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Enjoy the beach view with swimming, sunbathing and cocktails.

19. Quonnie Beach – Charlestown

Popular with locals, this beach is quiet, clean and relaxing. Limited parking and convenience makes it less crowded.

PLACES TO EAT:
The Breachway Grill is a good dining option nearby.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Perfect for walking, watching the sunset and reading.

20. Second Beach – Middletown

Great for surfing and long walks, this beach is known for its wide expanse and clean sand. There are lifeguards, board rentals, and shower facilities. Parking tickets required.

PLACES TO EAT:
Nearby are Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge and Easton’s Point Tavern.

ACTIVITIES TO DO:
Ideal for surfing, walking, and photography.

Plan a trip to Rhode Island’s best beaches

Now that you have all the information on the best beaches in Rhode Island, why wait? Choose one or more beaches for your next vacation and enjoy the ocean waves, delicious food, and great experiences!