Rhode Island may be small, but its beaches sure are mighty. With 400 miles of shoreline, clear ocean waters, cool breezes, and bright sunshine, you could spend your entire life exploring this state’s numerous beaches. From thundering surf to miles of stunning vistas, there’s the perfect beach and seaside vacation rental for everyone. Whether you’re looking to beach-comb for shells, cast a fishing rod, build an amazing sand castle, or work on your tan, Rhode Island vacation rentals will satisfy all of your sun, sand, and surf needs. Beach season has arrived, so pack up the sunscreen, snacks, and towels, and visit one of these top 10 sandy spots in Rhode Island.
1. East Beach
East Beach is all about natural beauty. There is no showers or snack bar, but this 3-mile beach is calm and quiet. It’s usually easy to find a secluded area away from other beach goers, so you’ll feel like you’re on your own private beach. For something a little different, check out the nearby Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge.
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2. Gooseberry Beach
Gooseberry Beach is set between the members-only Hazard’s and Bailey’s beaches along the swanky Ocean Drive in Newport. Gooseberry is private too, but anyone can visit for a parking fee, which is usually $20. With that small fee, you’ll gain access to top-notch amenities like showers, changing rooms, and a snack bar that serves strawberry lemonade and veggie burgers. You’ll also get an amazing view of the mansions in the distance. And, because it’s a protected cove, it’s perfect for taking the little ones.
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3. Sachuest (Second) Beach
This 1 1/4 mile beach has especially powdery sand with few rocks making it perfect for a barefoot stroll. The beach can get crowded, but it usually stays pretty quiet. Come extra early from 5 a.m. to 7:45 a.m., and you can bring your dog. Definitely, take advantage of the large waves with surfing and paddleboard lessons or just bring along body boards for the kids. Check your vacation rental because they often provide basic water toys for guests!
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4. Narragansett Town Beach
Narragansett Town Beach is located near the historic The Towers, the only remnant of the Narragansett Pier Casino which was built in the 1880s. It also draws its fair share of tourists and locals during the summer months who come to catch some waves or enjoy the many outdoor bars and restaurants within walking distance. Fun fact: the members of the Narragansett Town Beach rescue squad are frequent champions in the state’s lifeguard races.
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5. Napatree Point
Grab an ice cream cone and take a stroll down this narrow, 1 1/2 mile beach peninsula jutting out from Watch Hill in Westerly. You’ll want to take time and enjoy the views because Napatree Point gives you two great views in one place, Calm Little Narragansett Bay on one side, and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. This public beach is also a protected wildlife area so bring your binoculars and camera for bird-watching. You can also catch spectacular views from the top of the dunes.
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6. Roger Wheeler State Beach
Roger Wheeler State Beach is the perfect place for families to bring their young ones. A breakwater barrier protects it from Block Island Sound making the waters calm and safe. This kid-friendly destination also includes a playground with swings and slides, picnic tables, and a snack bar.
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7. Goosewing Beach Preserve
The drive to Goosewing Beach is long but definitely worth it. Along the way, you‘ll see rolling farmland, stands to sell fresh produce and well-maintained old homes. If you need a quick break to stretch your legs, stop at historic Tiverton Four Corners to grab an ice cream cone or a few sandwiches to eat on the beach. The closest parking lot to Goosewing Beach is the busier South Shore beach but just walk down that beach until you see the signs for Goosewing Preserve. Once you make it to this pristine, 75-acre preserve, dune pond, and beach environmental system, you’ll wonder why it took you so long.
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8. Oakland Beach
Oakland Beach is lively, family-friendly, and you can make it here from Providence in less than half an hour. This bay inlet beach has a playground, boardwalk, and gorgeous views of the sunset. You can walk the rocky shoreline, go fishing or swimming, or let your kids splash around in the shallow swimming area. If you get hungry, there’s also a picnic site, snack bar, and restaurants within walking distance.
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9. Salty Brine State Beach
Salty Brine State Beach is sandy, clean, and has a gentle surf sheltered by a breakwater. It has a gradual drop and no undertow, making it great for kids, swimming, and fishing. There’s also a brand new, sustainable, “green” building that includes a concession stand, restrooms, and coin operated solar hot water showers.
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10. North Light Lighthouse and Beach
The North Light Lighthouse was the fourth Rhode Island lighthouse built on Block Island’s Sandy Point. Getting here requires a short, half mile walk from the parking area along a sandy beach. The trail is uneven and pebbly so be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes. This lighthouse is also on the grounds of the National Wildlife Sanctuary which contains hiking trails, making this beach ideal for sightseeing. The tidal currents make the water dangerous, so this is not the best swimming beach.
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