Charlestown sits along Rhode Island’s southern coast and is the perfect place for a peaceful seaside escape any time of year. With a mix of quiet beaches, forested trails, trolls, seafood, regional events, and South County charm, it’s a destination to put on your vacation bucket list.
What to See
The Trolls- Erik Rock & Greta Granite, the Trolls of Ninigret Park were the first two Trolls of the Rhode Island Troll Trail. Commissioned by the South County Tourism Council and constructed in 2024 these towering 16-foot sculptures by Danish recycle artist Thomas Dambo have turned Ninigret Park into a destination. Erik Rock can be found by Little Ninigret Pond, Greta Granit crouches in the woods, reachable via marked paths. Get outdoors and enjoy public art at this free attraction.
Beach & Pond Relaxation: Charlestown’s beaches have drawn visitors for decades. Enjoy summer beach days, sunrise or sunset walks, or evenings looking at the stars. Charlestown has 4 public beaches and the salt-ponds offer kayaking, nature watching, clamming, or a peaceful escape from crowds.
Kettle Pond Visitor Center-The Kettle Pond Visitor Center teaches about, and shows, Rhode Island’s glacial landscapes and coastal ecology, offering an introduction to the natural history of the South County. The center features interactive exhibits, aquariums, and hands-on displays that explain how kettle ponds were formed, the wildlife they support, and the delicate balance between freshwater and coastal environments. Visitors can explore educational programs, guided walks, and family-friendly activities that connect people to the surrounding ponds, trails, and shoreline. The Kettle Pond Visitor Center provides insight into the geology, habitats, and stewardship efforts that make this part of Rhode Island unique.
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory in Charlestown is a unique South County’s destination. Attracting visitors for over 60 years, this whimsical art village, garden oasis, and old-school curiosity shop belongs on your Rhode Island bucket list. Perfect for the family, the shops are set among winding clamshell paths and bamboo groves, while free-roaming chickens wander about. Families love the wandering guinea hens and chickens and shoppers appreciate the laid-back, bohemian vibe you won’t find anywhere else in Rhode Island. Be sure to wander out back and visit the goats and emus!
Famous for Seafood
Nordic Lodge The Nordic Lodge is a dining destination for foodies throughout New England. Their famous all you can eat buffet includes lobster, crabs, shrimp, clams, oysters, prime rib, and more, and is worth the trip. Set in the woods, on a lake, the landscape carries the peaceful vibe of Charlestown. You can read more about the Nordic Here. Read blog
N.O. BAR Clam Shack — If you’re craving classic New England fried clams, chowder, or seafood by the water, this small clam shack serves up the freshest in local seafood.
Monahans is one of the original clam shacks in Rhode Island. A South County favorite for whole belly clams, chowder, fritters, and all the traditional clam shack staples. A visit here is a classic coastal experience., A summer visit to Monahan’s is a multi-generational tradition for visitors and locals alike.
The Breachway Grill — A great pick for a casual lunch or dinner, and centrally located to the beaches, trolls, and accommodations the Breachway Grill has something for everyone. Known for seafood, pizza, craft beers, and arelaxing vibe it’s a great place for a good meal in South County.
The Hungry Haven — Hungry Haven is the go-to spot for breakfast in Charlestown. This family run restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, serves breakfast and lunch daily, and is a local favorite for home cooked dinner specials on select evenings.
Where to Stay — Charlestown offers accommodations from cozy inns, motels, B&B’s and world class camping.
The General Stanton Inn Blends colonial charm with beach comfort. This historic inn has welcomed guests since before the American Revolution making it one of the oldest Colonial Inns in America. Known to have accommodated George Washington, (and some say haunted), it is centrally located to beaches, trolls and events. The restaurant and bar are well known for good food, and many weekend music festivals occur on the 6 acres of the property.
Phil & Ann's Sunset Motel — A clean, modest, budget-conscious and centrally located motel, Phil and Ann's offers newly renovated interior rooms, and a welcoming pool. Phil & Ann’s is perfect for those needing a home base for their getaway.
A Shore Thing -Located at the head of Charlestown Beach Road, A Shore Thing at Charlestown Beach is an 1830's farmhouse that has been lovingly updated to provide comfortable accommodations. The property is nearly two acres of parklike grounds, old shade trees, a meditation garden, and outdoor patios. The beach is down at the end of the street--just a short bike ride or good walk away. Restaurants, deli, bakery and shops are close by making this the perfect B&B for a getaway.
Burlingame State Campground, with 700 campsites, is Rhode Island’s largest campground. Situated on Watchaug Pond, Burlingame offers rustic sites and cabins, and it’s the most popular campground for tents and RVs in the state. Sites sit in the woods tucked beneath pines and hardwoods for a shaded peaceful environment. Watchaug Pond, is a sparkling 573-acre freshwater pond that adds endless activities to the Burlingame experience. Spend the day swimming, kayaking or canoeing, or fishing for bass and sunfish. The pond’s natural beauty, the proximity to the ocean, parks, and events make Burlingame a destination people return to year after year.
Annual Events
Charlestown Seafood Festival -The largest, and oldest seafood festival in Rhode Island. Enjoy the best seafood as well as an array of all types of foods for every taste. The event provides continuous live entertainment, rides for children, and a wide variety of craft vendors to shop from.
Rhythm and Roots Festivals is an end-of-summer tradition in South County. Enjoy a weekend of live music in an outdoor setting. Known for its strong lineup of roots, folk, Americana, blues, and rock performers, the festival at Ninigret Park has multiple stages, food vendors, and local makers. Rhythm and Roots captures the creative energy of the region, welcoming families, longtime fans, and first-time visitors to experience the sounds and flavors that define South County. Camping is available and a very popular choice for many attendees.
The Dark Night Sky
Charlestown is known for its low development, large conservation areas, and protection of local habitats. The town enjoys some of the darkest, clearest skies in Rhode Island. On cloudless nights the Milky Way stretches overhead, constellations are in view and shooting stars are commonplace.
The Frosty Drew Observatory gives astronomers and visitors an opportunity to gather together while peering into deep space through powerful telescopes. Frosty Drew is also a huge draw for photographers. Lying on the sand at East Beach, walking the trails around Ninigret Pond, or attending a stargazing event at the observatory, Charlestown’s dark night skies offer a stunning look at the natural world.
Charlestown is truly a place to take your time and enjoy the simple things in life.
Fun Facts
Charlestown is a small, coastal town with just over 7,700 residents and in the traditional summer season, the Town’s population swells to almost 30,000 with seasonal visitors.
Charlestown is spread across 59 square miles, the town includes 22 square miles of land and a remarkably large 37 square miles of water, thanks to its salt ponds, tidal estuaries, and protected coastal habitats. This unique land-to-water ratio gives Charlestown its signature feel—wide-open skies, expansive conservation areas, and a sense of spaciousness that’s rare in coastal New England.
Narragansett Indian Tribe-The town of Charlestown is rooted in Indigenous history shaped by the Narragansett people who lived, fished, farmed, and governed this land long before European settlement. One of the most significant historical figures is Sachem Ninigret, a respected Narragansett leader whose legacy remains through place names and preserved lands, including Ninigret Park. Charlestown is home to the Narragansett Indian Tribe’s reservation, making it a living center of Indigenous culture, governance, and community. This enduring presence serves as a reminder that Charlestown’s history is not just preserved in the past, but actively carried forward through the people, traditions, and stewardship of the Narragansett Tribe.
