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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

If You Didn’t Know About These 4 Swimming Holes In Rhode Island, You’ve Been Missing Out

Discover four idyllic swimming holes in Rhode Island perfect for summer days.

Updated May 17, 2024

Written by 

Beth Price-Williams

We all probably have our own list of the best swimming holes in Rhode Island, the places where we spend the hottest days of summer. While we’re fortunate to have access to the sandy beaches that sit along the ocean, sometimes we want a different experience. These four Rhode Island swimming holes offer an idyllic backdrop for soaking up the sun and taking a dip in the refreshing water. Here are some of the best places to swim in Rhode Island.

1. Olney Pond – Lincoln Woods State Park

A sandy beach scene with people swimming and relaxing by a lake, under a blue sky with fluffy clouds. A lifeguard watches from a chair.
Trip Advisor/Juripanda
A sandy beach by a calm lake, with trees, a lifeguard station, and picnic tables under a clear blue sky.
Trip Advisor/lifes2short

Bring all of your beach gear for your visit to Olney Pond, home to a gorgeous sand beach. The pond offers everything you need for a traditional beach day – plenty of space on the sand to relax, restrooms, and a bathhouse. If you’re up for a picnic, bring some food along and snag one of the picnic tables. Read more about this swimming hole in Rhode Island.

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2. Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round & Beach – Westerly

A vintage carousel with painted wooden horses, set under a thatched roof in a sunny outdoor area.
Google/Lauren Turek
A sunny beach scene with colorful umbrellas, chairs, and people walking along the shore by the water.
Google/Susanne Giese

We all need an old-fashioned beach day and Rhode Island swimming hole at least once during the summertime. Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round & Beach promises a ton of fun for the whole family. Start your visit by watching the kiddos go for a ride on the merry-go-round. Then soak up the sun on the sandy beach that leads into the ocean. Take a peek at the fun that awaits at this old-fashioned Rhode Island beach.

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3. Spring Lake Beach – Burrillville

A sunny beach scene with people swimming, lounging on sand, and enjoying the water under a blue sky with clouds.
Google/Mike Paolino
A sandy beach with people relaxing, umbrellas, and a building in the background surrounded by trees under a blue sky.
Google/Mike Paolino

One of the best swimming holes in Rhode Island, you’ll have plenty of room to spread out – 750 feet of pristine sand – at Sandy Lake Beach. The sandy beach leads into a freshwater lake, ideal for cooling off on the hottest days of summer. Join or start a game of badminton, volleyball, or bean bag toss, and grab a delicious bite to eat from the concession stand. Get help planning your trip to this Rhode Island beach.

4. Little Nini Pond – Charlestown

A sunny beach scene with people swimming and playing near a calm lake surrounded by trees.
Google/Amanda Myers
A serene lake surrounded by trees under a clear blue sky, with gentle ripples on the water's surface.
Google/Craig Ruginski

Little Nini Pond, tucked in Ninigret Park, just might be one of Rhode Island’s best-kept secrets. The sandy beach is small, but it’s an absolutely stunning spot on a hot summer day. Cool off in the crystal clear waters all summer long. Discover what makes Little Nini Pond one of the best swimming holes in Rhode Island.

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Have you been to any of these places to swim in Rhode Island? What are your favorite swimming holes in Rhode Island? Are any on this list? Let us know in the comments!

If you’re itching for a tropical getaway but it’s simply not possible, take a road trip to check out these Rhode Island destinations that will make you feel like you’ve traveled to the Caribbean:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/rhode-island/beach-paradise-ri/

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Lazy River In Rhode Island Where You’ll Find Us All Summer Long

Published Jul 30, 2024

Written by 

Beth Price-Williams

Summer in Rhode Island is pretty much synonymous with beach days.  After all, we've got some of the best in New England. But summer also provides an idyllic backdrop for a day of adventure, whether we feel like going on a hike along a shaded trail or exploring the water. When you feel like spending time on the water, you won't find a more relaxing or refreshing way than by kayaking in Barrington, Rhode Island.

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Channel your adventurous side this summer with a leisurely float on 100 Acre Cove in Barrington, starting at Walker Farm Kayak Rentals.

A dirt road leads to a body of water, with road signs for routes 103 and 114 visible on the left. Trees line the area.
Google Maps

Ample free parking is available at the farm in Barrington.

Walker Farm Kayak Rentals rents single and double kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. You just have to decide how you want to explore.

Rowing boats stacked on a grassy area by a calm lake under a cloudy sky.
Google/Brooke Moss

Rentals are for two hours and include a life jacket, a paddle, and bottled water. Don't worry if it's your first time kayaking; you'll receive basic instructions, too.

View from a kayak on calm water, with a shoreline of houses and trees in the background under a clear blue sky.
Google/Normal Loura

The kayak outfitter also offers a special three-hour session for groups of six or more.

You can even bring your pup along. However, you'll be responsible for their lifejacket.

Two people kayaking on a calm waterway, with greenery and a dock in the background.
Google/Paula Arango

The floats are also kid-friendly.

Once your kayak or canoe is in the water, you'll explore at your own pace. Previous guests offer glowing reviews of the experience, using such terms as "beautiful" and "peaceful."

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Two kayakers paddle on a calm river, with trees and a house visible along the shore under a hazy sky.
Google/Paula Arango

Keep an eye out for local wildlife on the shore; 100 Acre Cove is also popular for birdwatching.

A calm river scene with boats docked, lush greenery, and houses along the shore under a hazy sky.
Google/Paula Arango

Reservations, which are required, can be made by calling 401-369-4832. You must pay with cash.

A serene waterfront scene at dusk, featuring a wooden pier and a full moon reflecting on the calm water.
Google/John Thayer

Find more information, including tours and dates, on the official website of Walker Farm Kayaks.

Have you gone kayaking in Barrington, Rhode Island? Did you bring your kids or pup along? Let us know in the comments! Did you know Barrington is one of the best small towns in Rhode Island for a weekend getaway? Book a stay at one of the local Vrbos.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/rhode-island/small-town-weekend-exploring-ri/

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

7 Places In Rhode Island That Are Like A Caribbean Paradise In The Summer

Discover seven stunning beach paradises in Rhode Island perfect for summer visits.

Updated Jul 2, 2024

Written by 

Natalie Clunan

There is no need to hop on a plane to find a beach paradise in Rhode Island. In the Ocean State, we have miles and miles of stunning coastline that offer up sandy shores that are a little slice of heaven right here in our small state. If you're looking for tropical places in Rhode Island, we have the right list for you! Let's take a look at some of the spots you are definitely going to want to visit this summer.

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1. Napatree Point

A serene beach scene with gentle waves, sandy shore, and green grass under a clear blue sky.
Google Images/Chris P

This curving expanse of sandy beach at Napatree Point seems like a coastal paradise far from home. With the rolling waves of the ocean on one side and the harbor on the other, this stretch of land is the perfect playground for a summer's day and even taking a hike here is one of the best things to do in summer in Rhode Island. Read more about Napatree Point.

2. Burlingame State Park

Aerial view of a calm lake with a kayak and a boat, surrounded by greenery and people swimming nearby.
Google Images/Christina Appleby

Summer in Rhode Island is not complete without visiting a state park. Situated on Watchaug Pond, Burlingame State Park is an oasis on the water. Enjoy all kinds of boating activities in the calm waters of this state treasure. Swimming, hiking, and camping are also permitted at this spot.

Learn more about Burlingame State Park.

3. South Shore Beach

Surfers in colorful wetsuits riding waves at a sunny beach with a clear blue sky.
South Shore Beach Official/Facebook

This barrier beach in Little Compton is one of Rhode Island's gems. Splash in the clear water or enjoy a sandy stroll at this beautiful beach.

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Check out more about South Shore Beach.

4. Mohegan Bluffs

A scenic beach with rocky cliffs and lush greenery under a cloudy sky, with people walking along the shore.
Itejada/TripAdvisor

Mother Nature created something truly spectacular at the Mohegan Bluffs on Block Island. It's a true hidden oasis on Rhode Island. Walk down the 150-step staircase to reach the beach and enjoy unparalleled scenery. If you plan to spend the day at this paradise, bring your own snacks and beverages.

Find out more about Mohegan Bluffs.

5. East Beach

A serene beach scene with gentle waves lapping at a smooth, sandy shore under a clear blue sky.
TripAdvisor/Dave L

Limited parking can make it difficult to get to East Beach, but the challenge is well worth it. This spot is pristine with white sand and stunning views. Frolic in the surf or enjoy a scenic walk along the coast. Pack a picnic and make a day of it at this serene coastal treasure.

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Read more about East Beach.

6. Sachuest Beach

A sandy beach with sunbathers, umbrellas, and a lifeguard tower, under a cloudy sky.
TripAdvisor/TC415

Sachuest Beach, also known as Second Beach, is a fantastic place to enjoy great surf and warm sun. Families love spending the day at this shoreline gem in Middletown.

Learn more about Sachuest Beach.

7. Ballard's Beach

A busy beach scene with umbrellas, sunbathers, and a marina in the background under a clear blue sky.
TripAdvisor/Management

Beach-side tiki service is one of the perks at Ballard's Beach on Block Island. Staff will serve you cold drinks and you never even have to leave your chair, much like a tropical resort. Play in the ocean and feel the sand between your feet, it's only a ferry ride away.

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Check out more about Ballard's Beach, one of the best summer places in Rhode Island.

How many of these amazing spots have you visited? What's your favorite beach paradise in Rhode Island?

If you love the shore, then you'll love these seasonal restaurants that are only open during warm weather and serve the best beachy food.

Spending time at the beach this summer and need a great beach bag? Take a look at The Foldie. I love this bag and won't travel anywhere without it!

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