Best Surfing Beaches in Rhode Island

Narragansett Beach is a scenic public recreation area located on the eastern edge of Narragansett, Rhode Island. It spans 19 acres and offers stunning ocean views, surfing, and swimming opportunities. The beach is known for its unique blend of sandy and rocky shores, with a concrete sea wall along the southern shoreline. It provides a habitat for shorebirds like piping plovers and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The beach has a rich history, having been acquired by the town in 1939 following the Great Hurricane of 1938. Today, it attracts thousands of visitors annually, contributing significantly to the local economy.

Narragansett Beach is part of a larger coastal area that includes other popular spots like Scarborough State Beach and Point Judith Lighthouse. The town itself offers a charming beach community vibe, with a mix of historical sites, local events, and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy surfing, beach activities, and scenic walks along the shoreline.

The area is easily accessible from major cities like Providence and Newport, making it a favorite weekend getaway for many in New England. Narragansett's beaches and attractions have been recognized as among the best in the region, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Second Beach, also known as Sachuest Beach, is a mile-long, family-friendly beach in Middletown, Rhode Island. It offers a laid-back atmosphere with smooth sand and manageable waves, making it perfect for swimming and surfing. The beach is well-equipped with amenities like a concession stand, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. Visitors can enjoy activities such as surfing, skimboarding, and beach volleyball. The beach is also a great spot for scenic walks during the off-season. Located near the Norman Bird Sanctuary and Sachuest Point, it provides stunning coastal views and opportunities for hiking.
The beach is popular among locals and tourists alike, offering a clean and well-maintained environment. It's a great place for families with children of all ages, as it provides a variety of activities and a safe environment for swimming and playing.
Second Beach is open from 8 AM to 9 PM, with lifeguards on duty during peak hours. It's a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of Rhode Island's coastline.

Scarborough State Beach, located in Narragansett, Rhode Island, is a popular destination for beachgoers. It offers a newly renovated pavilion and expanded beach area, combining the former Olivo's and Lido's beaches into the Scarborough South Complex. The beach provides a range of activities including swimming, picnicking, and people-watching on its boardwalk. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, and amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic tables are available. The beach is known for its scenic views and is a favorite spot for families and tourists alike.

Scarborough State Beach is part of Rhode Island's South County, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, saltwater bathing, and exploring the nearby observation tower for panoramic views. The beach is well-suited for all ages, with shaded shelters and accessible facilities.

The area around the beach is dotted with restaurants and hotels, providing a variety of dining and accommodation options. From seafood restaurants like George's of Galilee to boutique hotels like The Break Hotel, there's something for every taste and budget.

Matunuck Beach, located in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, is a picturesque destination known for its strong surf and expansive shoreline. The area offers a mix of natural beauty and recreational activities, making it a popular spot for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and picnicking, while also taking in the views of the nearby ferry to Block Island. The beach is part of a larger coastal area that includes both state and town beaches, providing a variety of amenities and attractions for visitors.

The surrounding area is dotted with restaurants and hotels, offering a range of dining and accommodation options. From seafood eateries like Matunuck Oyster Bar to historic inns like the Admiral Dewey Inn, there's something for every taste and preference. The beach's proximity to Narragansett and Wakefield also means that visitors have access to a broader selection of cultural and recreational activities.

Matunuck Beach is a day-use area, with restrictions on activities like camping and alcohol consumption, ensuring a family-friendly environment. The beach is open seasonally, with lifeguards on duty during peak hours, making it a safe choice for families and solo travelers alike.

Easton's Beach, also known as First Beach, is a vibrant and historic beach in Newport, Rhode Island. Located on Memorial Boulevard, it stretches for about 0.75 miles along the Atlantic coast, offering a mix of surf, sand, and scenic views. The beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, providing a range of activities such as surfing, swimming, and beach volleyball. Visitors can enjoy the beach's boardwalk, ride the historic carousel, and explore the nearby Cliff Walk, a famous scenic path lined with Gilded Age mansions. Easton's Beach is also home to the Save the Bay Exploration Center and Aquarium, making it an educational and fun destination for families.

The beach has a rich history, having been a major summer destination since the early 20th century. It has hosted various amusement park rides and attractions over the years, though many were destroyed by storms. Today, it continues to be a central part of Newport's summer scene, hosting events like summer concerts and lifeguard tournaments.

Despite its proximity to Newport's luxurious mansions, Easton's Beach remains accessible to the public, offering a unique blend of relaxation and entertainment for all visitors.

South Shore Beach, located in Little Compton, Rhode Island, is a picturesque destination known for its serene and peaceful atmosphere. The beach spans about a quarter mile and features light beige sand, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. While it can get crowded, especially on weekends, the beach offers ample space at high tide. Lifeguards are present during peak hours, and restrooms are available for visitors. The beach is open until 11 PM, allowing for a lively night experience with campfires permitted in designated areas.

The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty, with scenic drives and nearby attractions like Goosewing Beach Preserve. However, the preserve's trails are not well-marked, making it more suitable for beach activities than hiking. The beach's proximity to local farms, cafes, and vineyards adds to its charm, offering a blend of relaxation and exploration.

Despite some rocky areas near the parking, the lower portion of the beach is generally smooth and rock-free, especially at low tide. This makes it a great spot for families and those looking for a tranquil beach experience.

Punk Rock Beach at Point Judith in Narragansett, Rhode Island, is a vibrant coastal gem known for its unique blend of stunning views and a laid-back atmosphere. This beach offers a dynamic experience with its rocky shoreline, clear waters, and lively waves, making it perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Visitors can enjoy surfing, swimming, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is characterized by its graffiti-covered rocks and a punk rock vibe, creating a lively and eclectic environment. It's an ideal spot for families, with shallow waters suitable for children, and nature enthusiasts can observe diverse marine life. Local events and gatherings add to the beach's lively spirit, providing opportunities to mingle with locals and other visitors.

Punk Rock Beach is nestled in the picturesque Point Judith area, offering scenic coastal trails nearby for exploration and photography. The sound of waves crashing against the rocks creates a serene ambiance, making it a haven for those seeking tranquility. Whether you're looking to relax with a good book, enjoy a picnic, or dive into the ocean's waves, Punk Rock Beach is a must-visit destination on your Rhode Island adventure.

For those interested in exploring beyond the beach, the nearby Point Judith Lighthouse and Fishermen's Memorial offer historical and scenic attractions. The area is also known for its surfing culture, with several nearby outfitters offering lessons and equipment rentals.

Mohegan Bluffs is a stunning natural landmark located on the southern shore of Block Island, Rhode Island. The site features large clay cliffs about 150 feet high, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The area is steeped in history, named after a battle between the Mohegan and Niantic tribes in the mid-16th century. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views from the top or descend over 100 steps to the beach below, known as Corn Cove. The bluffs are a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and admiring the dramatic coastline.

Mohegan Bluffs is part of Block Island's rich cultural and natural heritage, attracting tourists and locals alike for its unique blend of history and natural beauty. The area is accessible from a half-hour before sunrise to a half-hour after sunset, allowing visitors to experience the site at different times of day.

The erosion of the cliffs over time has led to significant changes in the landscape, including the relocation of the nearby Southeast Lighthouse to prevent it from falling into the ocean. Despite these changes, Mohegan Bluffs remains a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, nature, and scenic beauty.

Sachuest Beach, also known as Second Beach, is a family-friendly destination in Middletown, Rhode Island. It is a mile-long beach facing south, offering good surf and great sand. The beach is well-equipped with amenities like a concession stand, bathrooms, changing areas, showers, grills, and picnic tables. Visitors can enjoy surfboard rentals and lessons during the season, along with a Del’s Lemonade truck for refreshments. The beach's proximity to Newport makes it an ideal spot for those looking to explore both the beach and the historic city nearby.
The beach is popular among locals and tourists alike for its well-kept sand and ample parking. It provides a lively atmosphere with activities like surfing and picnicking, making it a perfect spot for families and beachgoers.
The surrounding area offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making Sachuest Beach a must-visit for anyone exploring Rhode Island's coastline.

Misquamicut State Beach, located in Westerly, Rhode Island, is a vibrant and popular destination known for its half-mile stretch of sandy beachfront. The area offers a modern beach facility with amenities like a playground, concessions, outdoor showers, and shaded gazebos, making it ideal for families and beachgoers alike. The beach has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s and was officially established as a state beach in 1959. It attracts both locals and tourists, offering a lively summer atmosphere with nearby restaurants, hotels, and attractions.
The beach is surrounded by scenic views and is close to other notable spots like Watch Hill and Weekapaug. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, picnicking, and saltwater fishing off-hours. The area also hosts various summer events, including concerts and classic car nights.
Misquamicut State Beach is a must-visit for those seeking a quintessential New England beach experience, with its blend of natural beauty and lively community events.

Charlestown Breachway State Beach is a picturesque seaside destination located in Charlestown, Rhode Island, offering stunning views of Block Island Sound. The beach stretches about a mile long with soft, golden sand, perfect for sunbathing and beach activities. It is known for its excellent saltwater fishing and provides a serene environment for relaxation and recreation. The beach is open seasonally and offers a variety of activities such as swimming, boating, and kayaking.
The area has a rich history, with the breachway originally constructed to stabilize the inlet and maintain oyster health. Today, it is a critical habitat for wildlife and a popular spot for recreational activities.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the sound while engaging in various water sports or simply enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

Vaill Beach, located in New Shoreham, Rhode Island, is part of the picturesque Block Island, known for its stunning beaches and natural beauty. The island offers over 17 miles of coastal beach, making it a haven for beach lovers. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking ocean views, explore the island's many walking trails, and experience the unique charm of this year-round community. The area is also home to numerous freshwater ponds and historic lighthouses, adding to its allure. Block Island is a popular destination for activities like bicycling, hiking, sailing, and fishing, making Vaill Beach an excellent choice for those seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Block Island is formed by glaciers and features a diverse landscape, including rocky cliffs and sandy beaches. The island's conservation efforts have protected over 40% of its land, ensuring a pristine environment for visitors. The local community is vibrant, with a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fourth of July Parade.

The island's small-town charm and natural beauty make it an ideal getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and friendly community, Vaill Beach and Block Island offer a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit.