Best beaches in Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s coastline features a diverse range of Atlantic shorelines, from the surf-heavy waves of Narragansett to the calm, shallow coves of Jamestown. This collection includes state-managed parks like East Matunuck, known for its modern eco-friendly pavilion, and historic Newport spots like Easton’s Beach, situated at the start of the Cliff Walk. Visitors can find specialized environments ranging from the undeveloped barrier sands of East Beach in Westerly to the family-oriented amenities and carousels found at municipal waterfronts.

Best Beaches — Map

A

Easton Beach

Located at the start of Newport's Cliff Walk, this beach features a 1950s carousel, a snack bar known for lobster rolls, and a seasonal aquarium.

B

Narragansett Town Beach

The most popular beach in the city. Clean, well-kept, lifeguarded. Sometimes gets quite crowded.

C

Hazard Beach

A private beach located along Newport’s Ocean Drive, primarily serving members of the Spouting Rock Beach Club.

Pub. by Berger Bros., Providence, R.I. / Public domain

D

Scarborough Beach

Scarborough State Beach is a public recreation area fronting the Atlantic Ocean in the town of Narragansett, Rhode Island.

E

Gooseberry Beach

Situated in a protected cove along Ocean Drive, this beach offers calm waters and is tucked between private clubs, though it remains open to the public for a daily fee.

F

Captain Roger W Wheeler State Beach

Beach with a great vibe - lively but almost never gets crowded. Family-friendly, lifeguarded, with sport amenities.

G

Collins Beach

A small, quiet cove located near the Castle Hill Lighthouse, often used for fishing and watching boats enter Newport Harbor.

H

Ballards Beach

Nice beach situated right next to the city center. A pleasant municipal beach to spend your afternoon at.

I

East Matunuck State Beach

This state beach in South Kingstown features a LEED-certified pavilion and consistent surf, located near the Matunuck Oyster Bar.

J

Mackeral Cove Beach

A sheltered beach on Jamestown’s Conanicut Island, offering shallow, calm water suitable for swimming and kayaking.

K

Charlestown Beach

A long, sandy beach in Charlestown popular for saltwater fishing and surfing, with views of the Breachway and Block Island Sound.

L

East Beach

An undeveloped barrier beach in Westerly, part of the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge, offering limited parking and a pristine natural environment.

M

North Kingston Town Beach

A municipal beach in Wickford featuring a shaded picnic grove, playground, and calm waters overlooking Narragansett Bay.

N

Rocky Point Beach

Located on the site of a former amusement park, this Warwick beach offers paved walking trails along the shoreline and a large fishing pier.

O

Coast Guard Beach

Situated on Block Island near the entrance to the Great Salt Pond, this beach is known for its views of the historic Coast Guard station.

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