Ten Rhode Island beaches Ocean State Media staff say are worth the trip

Rhode Island may be small, but when it comes to beach opinions, we contain multitudes. Some people want waves. Some people want calm waters. Some want easy parking, a snack bar and a bathroom with locks, a sink and real toilet paper. Others want the kind of beach you can only access by boat, as a resident or just by being well-connected.

As the Summer Solstice approaches, we asked Ocean State Media staff to share their favorite Rhode Island beaches. The answers stretched from Block Island to Little Compton – with plenty of sand in between.

FYI: Parking rules and fees vary widely depending on whether a beach is state-run, town-run or even more locally controlled. Rhode Island’s state beach parking passes apply to eight state beaches, but it’s first come, first served. So be ready to duke it out for parking.

A South County classic. East Matunuck has soaring surf and a wide sandy shoreline – it’s a bit rocky, not the smoothest sand. But it is great for that full beach day vibe without quite as much chaos as other, bigger-name spots. Plus, there are bathrooms, snacks and ample parking spots.

Best for: A classic Rhode Island beach day.

Heide Borgonovo/Ocean State Media

Ballard’s is a true day-trip commitment. You’re taking the ferry to gorgeous Block Island. This small beach just south of the ferry landing often boasts a party scene. With food, drinks, and views, this is a pick for anyone who values the journey as well as the destination. For a slower vibe, head about a mile up Corn Neck Road to Crescent Beach/Fred Benson Town Beach.

Best for: People who pack light, want to feel like they’re on vacation.

East Beach is one of Rhode Island’s least-developed state beaches, which is exactly the point. It has limited parking, composting toilets and a much more natural feel than some of the state’s busier summer spots. It is beautiful, quieter and worth planning ahead for: Parking is limited and fills up early on sunny days.

Best for: Peaceful, laid-back atmosphere.

Sachuest Beach, better known as Second Beach, is a family-friendly, Newport-area favorite with a mile of soft sand, solid surf and plenty of reasons to stay awhile. The south-facing beach has the practical stuff covered, too, including concessions, bathrooms, changing areas, showers, grills, picnic tables and shade structures near the main building.

Best for: Warmer waters, surfers, amenities and people-watching.

Goosewing is more than a beach; it’s a protected area and vital refuge for piping plovers, least terns, herons and thousands of migrating songbirds. It is beautiful, quieter and tucked into one of Rhode Island’s most scenic corners. If your ideal beach day involves dunes, wildlife and a little distance from the crowds, this one belongs on the list.

Best for: Nature lovers and quiet coastal escapes.

Near Point Judith, Camp Cronin is a great place to walk, fish, take in the view or pair with another Narragansett stop. Not every ocean visit needs a beach umbrella and a cooler.

Best for: Scenic walks, fishing.

Quonnie, short for Quonochontaug, is one of those beach names that instantly makes you sound local. Quonnie Pond and the breachway are popular with boaters, kayakers and anglers, while the surrounding beach communities give the area its tucked-away South County charm. Vehicular access is severely limited, so best plan to walk.

Best for: Kayaking and salt pond lovers.

Dewey Raposo

A tourist favorite for those who can walk there, this beach is iconic. It is a scene, and sometimes that is exactly what you want. Plus, there are places to walk and bop about in lovely Narragansett.

Best for: Surfing, people-watching and summer chaos.

Salty Brine got multiple staff shoutouts, especially for its gentler waves and proximity to George’s of Galilee. It’s a great pick for families, those who prefer calm water and people who love a post-swim drink.

Best for: Families with young children, lovers of gentle surf.

Mackerel Cove is pretty, manageable and easy to pair with a Jamestown day trip, whether that means a drive to Beavertail, a picnic or a sunset stop. It’s a good reminder that you do not have to leave Rhode Island to feel like you went somewhere.

Best for: Sunset views, families and swimming.

Heide Borgonovo/Ocean State Media

We had a lot of recommendations come in from staff, but only some made the final edit. Here are some other popular picks: Scarborough Beach, Lloyd’s Beach, South Shore Beach, Third Beach, Oakland Beach, Conimicut Point, Goddard Park, Sunset Beach and one boat access spot near The Narrows in Narragansett that may or may not be too local to put on blast…

Because in Rhode Island, the best beach recs often come with a warning: Don’t tell anyone.