With almost 400 miles of coastline , it ’ s easy to understand why Rhode Island is the Ocean State .
STATE BEACHES
Sun-drenched summer days are meant for basking on sandy shores and frolicking through ocean waves . Here ’ s the inside scoop on the state ’ s lovely public beaches . PARKING PRICES *: Seasonal passes ( which cover all seven state beaches ) are $ 30 for RI residents and $ 60 for non-residents . Daily weekday rates are $ 6 for residents /$ 12 for non , while weekend and holiday rates are $ 7 for residents /$ 14 for non . Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly rates differ : $ 10 for residents /$ 20 for non during the week , $ 15 for residents /$ 30 for non on weekends and holidays . Seniors , both resident and non , receive discounted rates . riparks . ri . gov
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 Block Island Sound . Quiet and peaceful .
EAST BEACH STATE BEACH , CHARLESTOWN Undeveloped , pristine beach with few parking spots . Perfect for reading , sunbathing and escaping loud crowds . Get here early to claim a spot .
EAST MATUNUCK STATE BEACH , SOUTH KINGSTOWN An easy-to-access sandy beach that offers the same natural beauty of East Beach minus the limited parking . Decent waves and views of boats in the sound . Near the upscale Matunuck Oyster Bar and the more casual Jim ’ s Dock and Cap ’ n Jack ’ s .
DID YOU KNOW ?
MISQUAMICUT STATE BEACH , WESTERLY The fun beach . Go-karts and mini golf are just a short walk down the coast , with Paddy ’ s Beach Club and Jet-Ski rentals in the other direction .
ROGER WHEELER STATE BEACH , NARRAGANSETT Calm and shallow waters . 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 , NARRAGANSETT Watch the ferries leave for Block Island from your stretch of sand . It ’ s 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 .
SCARBOROUGH STATE BEACH , NARRAGANSETT Wavy , great for body boarding . Near hiking trails , summer rental cottages , the bus route , Aunt Carrie ’ s and Iggy ’ s Doughboys and Chowder House .
NON-STATE BEACHES
BALLARD ’ S BEACH RESORT , BLOCK ISLAND Block Island ’ s party beach , complete with a tiki bar , beach volleyball and live music . Steps from the ferry . PARKING FEES *: None , lounge chairs / umbrellas for rent .
July 30 has been declared Governor ’ s Bay Day , when parking is free at all state beaches .
Ballard ’ s Beach on Block Island .
EASTON ’ S BEACH , NEWPORT Call it “ First Beach ” to sound like a local . Near Newport ’ s famed Cliff Walk . Also a great spot for beginner surfers . PARKING FEES *: $ 15 wkdy , $ 25 wknd .
SACHUEST BEACH , MIDDLETOWN Known as “ Second Beach ,” this long stretch of sand has plenty of parking away from the bustle of Newport . PARKING FEES *: $ 15 wkdy , $ 25 wknd .
SOUTH SHORE BEACH , LITTLE COMPTON A beautiful stretch of unspoiled beach in secluded Little Compton . A little rocky , so bring flip-flops . PARKING FEES *: $ 20 wkdy , $ 25 wknd .
MOHEGAN BLUFFS , BLOCK ISLAND Descend the 141 steps to this breathtaking spot . Let the kids cover themselves in the surrounding clay and wash it off in the cold Atlantic surf . PARKING FEES *: None .
NARRAGANSETT TOWN BEACH Known for its picturesque background of the Narragansett Towers and long stretch of sand . Home to surf lessons , locals and tourists alike . PARKING FEES *: $ 10 wkdy , $ 15 wknd . Seasonal passes available to town residents only . Admission $ 12 ; children younger than eleven free .
* Fees are subject to change .
72 YOUR ULTIMATE SUMMER GUIDE 2023