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Rhode Island Vacation - Block Island

Escape to Rhode Island this Summer: Top Things to Do

Don’t be deterred by the size of this state. Rhode Island in the summer is the ultimate experience you never knew you needed. Coastal towns oozing seaside charm, historic mansions set on cliffs overlooking the water, steaming plates of local lobster ready to be dunked into melted butter, shining lighthouses surrounded by salty air, sandy beaches with scenic views from every angle—-this is summer in the Ocean State. Convinced yet? Here’s where you should stay and what you should do when you escape to Rhode Island this summer.

                                                            Discover Rhode Island

Visit Rhode Island Beaches

Narragansett Town Beach 

This classic New England beach offers some of the best, cleanest, and most accessible beach conditions for locals and visitors alike. Located in the center of town, Narragansett Town Beach has food options, restrooms, a first-aid office, a surfing area, and of course, a beautiful sandy beachfront. 

Newport Beaches

Newport may be known for its glitz and glamor, but its 400 miles of coastline also make it the perfect place to spend the day on the beach. Spend the day snacking on a lobster roll or ice cream cone on one of Newport’s many beaches. 

Easton’s Beach

Also fondly known as First Beach, Easton’s Beach is one of the biggest and top-rated beaches in New England. This 3/4-mile stretch marks the beginning of Newport’s Cliff Walk, the ideal place to experience seaside history.

Newport Beach
Rhode Island Commerce Corporation

Savor Some Seafood

There’s no better time to dig into some fresh seafood than in the summer. Rhode Island is known for its daily fresh catches and based on the number of thriving seafood restaurants in the small state, everyone’s a fan. We especially love Matunuck Oyster Bar in South Kingstown for its extensive raw bar options in addition to its fried, grilled, and baked offerings.

Adventure in the State Parks

If you’re looking to get in a bit of exercise, exploring Rhode Island state parks is a great way to spend your day in the sun. The state’s plethora of parks provide great places for activities such as camping, hiking, picnicking, and more.

Explore the Lighthouses

No trip to a New England coastal town is complete without a visit to a lighthouse. Block Island, Newport, Providence, South County, Warwick, and West Bay all feature a storied history when it comes to these iconic towers. Bring a picnic, explore the area, and hear stories of shipwrecks, keepers, and more.

Narragansett, RI Lighthouse

Go Wild at WaterFire

This unique event in Providence showcases art, promotes community, and gives residents and visitors the opportunity to make unforgettable memories. Don’t miss your chance to witness WaterFire this summer.

About New England Inns and Resorts

New England Inns and Resorts was founded in 1907 and has been devoted to providing unforgettable experiences ever since. With over 300 hotels, inns, and resorts located across New England, we support exceptional hospitality with a dedication to keeping it local at every location.

Whether you decide to stick to the small-town vibes or take to the capital city of Providence,  Rhode Island is the perfect summer destination for staying beachy as you get away to the sun and the sand this summer.