Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the country, but its shoreline is a world of its own. Locals and visitors alike treasure the Ocean State for its beaches, cliffs, and bayside paths that capture the essence of coastal New England. From sandy stretches to rugged ocean views, these ten beaches and walks showcase Rhode Island’s charm at its finest.
1. Narragansett Town Beach – Surf and Tradition
In the heart of Narragansett, this public beach has been a staple for generations. With its long stretch of soft sand and consistent waves, it’s a favorite among surfers and families. The backdrop of The Towers, a historic stone arch from the 1880s, gives the place a uniquely Rhode Island feel. Early morning walks along the shoreline are peaceful, while sunset strolls bring the glow of the Atlantic to life.
2. Misquamicut State Beach – Westerly’s Summer Hotspot
Located in Westerly, Misquamicut is one of the state’s most popular destinations. The wide beach offers ample space, clean facilities, and calm surf, making it ideal for swimming and picnics. During summer weekends, the area comes alive with music, local food vendors, and community events. The nearby Watch Hill Lighthouse and charming village shops round out a classic coastal day.
3. East Matunuck State Beach – South Kingstown Serenity
Favoured by locals in South Kingstown, East Matunuck balances accessibility with tranquility. The beach overlooks Block Island Sound and offers a front-row seat to passing boats. A nearby boardwalk and trails make it perfect for long walks and nature watching. The sound of the surf and the salt air here define southern Rhode Island’s relaxed pace.
4. Second Beach – Middletown’s Coastal Gem
Officially known as Sachuest Beach, Second Beach in Middletown is beloved for its smooth sand and scenic backdrop. It’s less crowded than Newport’s downtown beaches but only minutes away. Just beyond the dunes, the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge offers one of the best coastal walks in the state, with ocean cliffs and migrating seabirds in view year-round.
5. Goosewing Beach Preserve – Nature and Seclusion
Tucked in Little Compton, Goosewing Beach is part of a protected preserve managed by The Nature Conservancy. It’s a pristine stretch of dunes, salt ponds, and shoreline where wildlife thrives. Visitors can walk miles without encountering crowds, taking in the raw coastal beauty that once defined much of New England’s coast.
6. Easton’s Beach – Newport’s Family Favorite
Also known as First Beach, Easton’s Beach in Newport combines seaside fun with the city’s elegant history. Its carousel, snack stands, and summer concerts make it a family hub, while the nearby Cliff Walk offers a world-class oceanfront stroll past Gilded Age mansions. It’s where leisure and legacy meet in true Newport style.
7. Beavertail State Park – Jamestown’s Ocean Drama
At the southern tip of Jamestown, Beavertail State Park isn’t a sandy beach but an unforgettable coastal walk. The rocky shoreline, crashing waves, and sweeping ocean views make it one of Rhode Island’s most photographed spots. The historic Beavertail Lighthouse and interpretive trails highlight the maritime story of the island.
8. Charlestown Breachway – Coastal Camping and Views
Charlestown offers a quieter slice of oceanfront life. The Breachway provides both a beach and a natural inlet where visitors can fish, kayak, and watch boats drift toward Block Island Sound. Adjacent camping areas make it popular for weekend escapes, and its sunsets are among the most underrated in the state.
9. Roger W. Wheeler State Beach – Family Comfort in Narragansett
Often called “Sand Hill Cove” by locals, this Narragansett beach is ideal for families with children. The waters are calm and shallow, lifeguards are attentive, and the facilities are well-maintained. It’s an excellent place for a day of safe swimming, building sandcastles, and relaxing on the shore.
10. Block Island’s Mohegan Bluffs – The Ocean from Above
Accessible via ferry to New Shoreham, the Mohegan Bluffs present one of Rhode Island’s most dramatic coastal experiences. A staircase leads down 200 feet to a secluded beach, but most visitors linger at the top for breathtaking ocean panoramas. The cliffs embody the wild, untouched side of the Ocean State – a fitting finale to any coastal adventure.
Rhode Island’s coastline might stretch only about 40 miles from end to end, yet it feels limitless in variety. From family-friendly beaches to quiet natural reserves and cliffside trails, the Ocean State delivers the full New England shoreline experience in compact form. Whether you come for a summer swim, a spring walk, or a winter view of the waves, Rhode Island’s coast welcomes you all year long.