STATE BEACHES While some of Rhode Island’ s coast is exclusive to the townies who live nearby, here’ s the inside scoop on the just-as-lovely public beaches which are open to all who wish to take advantage. Prices: Season parking passes to all the state beaches are $ 30 for RI residents, while daily rates are $ 6 for weekdays and $ 7 for holidays and weekends. |
Charlestown Breachway State Beach Ample sand separates the ocean from the tidal ponds beyond. Great spot for fishing, clamming, RV camping and gazing out over the sound. Quiet and peaceful. |
East Beach State Beach Undeveloped, pristine beach with few parking spots in Charlestown. Great for reading, sunbathing and escaping loud crowds. Get here early to claim a spot. |
East Matunuck State Beach Easy-to-access sandy beach in South Kingstown that offers the same natural beauty of East Beach( above) minus the limited parking. Decent waves and great views of boats in the sound. Near Matunuck Oyster Bar, Jim’ s Dock and Cap’ n Jack’ s.
Misquamicut State Beach The fun beach. Water slides, go-karts and mini golf are just a short walk down the coast in Westerly, with Paddy’ s Beach Club
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and Jet Ski rentals in the other direction. Misquamicut’ s daily rate is $ 10 for weekdays; $ 15 on holidays / weekends.
Roger Wheeler State Beach Calm and shallow waters in Narragansett. Perfect for families with young children and good for swimming laps. Grab a doughboy from the pavilion and let the kids play on the jungle gym.
Salty Brine State Beach Watch the ferries leave for Block Island from your stretch of sand in Narragansett. Also perfect for sunset viewing. Walk over and grab a meal from any of the seafood joints nearby, like Champlin’ s Seafood Deck or George’ s of Galilee.
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For even more info or to purchase your state beach parking pass, visit beachparkingri. com.
NON-STATE BEACHES Most town-owned stretches of sand usually don’ t admit those without town resident passes, but the following private and townowned beaches are easily accessible regardless of your address.
Ballard’ s Beach Resort Block Island’ s party beach, complete with a tiki bar, beach volleyball and live music. A few steps from the ferry. Parking fees: None, lounge chairs and umbrellas for rent.
Easton’ s Beach Call it“ First Beach” to sound like a local. Near Newport’ s famed
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GRAPHIC: GETTY IMAGES. |