The Best Beaches in Rhode Island

Westerly

RI’s classic half-mile of wide sand backed by a beachy strip of food and rentals — a huge state lot that still sells out on the hottest summer Saturdays.

Narragansett Pier

The state’s premier surf beach, right in Narragansett Pier — consistent waves, a walk-on beach fee, and paid lots that go early when the swell is up.

First Beach

Newport’s “First Beach” at the foot of the Cliff Walk, with a carousel and snack bar — a paid lot that fills by midday in season, so arrive early or walk in.

Scarborough

The quintessential RI scene — a huge dune-backed beach with a pavilion and boardwalk, and one of the largest state lots, which still caps out midday.

Matunuck

A lively South County beach near the Ocean Mist — soft sand, good swimming, and a lot that’s one of the first to post “full” on summer weekends.

Galilee

Sheltered, calm water behind the Galilee breakwater makes “Sand Hill Cove” the go-to family beach — which means the lot fills with families by late morning.

Sachuest

Middletown’s Sachuest Beach — a long surf-friendly crescent beside the wildlife refuge, with a paid town lot that empties fast when there’s a swell.

Block Island

Block Island’s three-mile main beach (Fred Benson Town Beach) — free sand a walk from the ferry, so leave the car on the mainland and bike the island.