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Beaches

Picture an area of sweeping, shimmering beaches, bordered by blue ocean, scenic drives through shoreline villages and picture-postcard vistas.  Imagine sheltered bays offering calm blue water lapping against a white shoreline...wonderful for fledging swimmers and water sports enthusiasts alike.  

South County's reputation for coastal beauty precedes itself.  With 100 miles of breathtaking coastline, our variety of beaches are the jewels in Southern Rhode Island's crown.  From tame, foot high, family friendly waves to pristine stretches of sand, it's a serene song to those seeking rejuvenation!  

Blue Shutters Town Beach – East Beach Road, Charlestown, RI
Very popular family-oriented town beach.  It's a pretty spot with spectacular views of Block Island Sound.  Lifeguards, outdoor showers, restrooms, changing rooms, concession stand and picnic tables for residents and visitors.  Beach-accessible wheelchairs are available at no charge. 

Charlestown Breachway – Charlestown Beach Road, Charlestown, RI
This beach offers a panoramic view of Block Island Sound and is known as one of the best salt water fishing areas in South County. Camping and boat launch areas available.

Charlestown Town Beach – Charlestown Beach Road, Charlestown, RI 
Fine sand and modest surf.  Adjacent to Charlestown Breachway. 

East Beach – East Beach Road, Charlestown, RI
Three miles long, this unspoiled barrier beach is considered by many to be the most beautiful in the state. Parking is limited. No bathhouse.

East Beach – Ocean View Highway, Westerly, RI 
A public right of way leads from Bluff Road to this long and lovely beach that stretches from the Watch Hill Lighthouse.

East Matunuck State Beach – 950 Succotash Road, South Kingstown, RI
Noted for its strong surf, this beach sports a futuristic pavilion and a huge parking lot. Boats entering and leaving the Point Judith Harbor of Refuge are clearly visible.  Carry in, carry out policy. 

Misquamicut State Beach – 27 Atlantic Avenue, Westerly, RI
This beach is one of the largest in the state. It generally has modest surf and good sand with a gradual drop-off. Features an array of activities for the entire family, including a state-of-the-art large, new pavilion with plenty of parking.  Carry in, carry out policy.

Napatree Point – Bay Street, Westerly, RI
A one and one quarter mile of beautiful and ecologically fragile barrier beach. Care should be taken not to disturb beach grass, dunes and wildlife in this conservation area. Parking is limited.

Narragansett Town Beach – Boston Neck Road, Narragansett, RI
This mile long beach is regarded as having the best surfing in New England due to its smoothly curling waves. A walk north along the beach takes one to the mouth of the Pettaquamscutt River. There are two modern pavilions with snack bars, changing rooms and rest rooms. Narragansett's lifeguards are frequent winners of the annual lifeguard competition held here. Parking fee and beach fee apply. Shopping boutiques are in the nearby Pier Marketplace and several restaurants with outdoor decks overlooking the beach and ocean are just a short walk away. 

Roger Wheeler State Beach – 100 Sand Hill Cove Road, Narragansett, RI
Also known as Sand Hill Cove Beach. This popular beach has fine white sand, calm water and a very slight drop-off. There is a playground area, picnic tables, bathhouse and lots of parking.   Carry in, carry out policy. 

Salty Brine State Beach – 254 Great Road, Narragansett, RI
Also known as Galilee Beach. This tiny beach, barely 100 yards long, is set close to the busy Galilee docks and several seafood restaurants. It's good for children because it is inside the three mile long sea wall, protected from the surf. There is always something to watch with the fishing boats, pleasure boats and ferries going by.

Scarborough State Beach – 870 Ocean Road (North Beach), 970 Ocean Road (South Beach), 
Narragansett, RI

This is the most popular beach in Rhode Island and is a great beach for all ages with two beautiful pavilions, boardwalk, observation tower and sitting areas along the boardwalk. Picnic table, concessions, restrooms, and coin operated hot showers.   Lifeguards on duty 9am -6pm.  

South Kingstown Town Beach – Matunuck Beach Road, South Kingstown, RI
This beach, on the fringe of the village of Matunuck, is South Kingstown's official public beach. It has a small pavilion with rest rooms and a walkway from the parking area. Children's playground.

Watch Hill Beach – Bay Street, Westerly, RI
This small beach lies behind the antique Flying Horse Carousel in the heart of Watch Hill. It is popular with families and has a bathhouse.

Wuskenau Town Beach – Atlantic Avenue, Westerly, RI 
Formerly called Westerly New Town Beach. On Atlantic Ave, not far from Misquamicut State Beach. Open to the public.