Living in Rhode Island means leisurely beach days all summer long. We all have our favorite beach, the one where we feel right at home soaking up the sun on a scorching hot day or taking a quiet stroll during the gray afternoons of winter. That doesn't mean, though, that we don't feel like exploring sometimes. Discover (or rediscover) these hidden gem beaches in Rhode Island on an epic road trip that requires just 4.5 hours of drive (and ferry) time.
Map out your road trip!
Gas up your car, and get ready for a day of adventure, any time of the year, as you hit the road on this epic hidden gem beaches road trip in Rhode Island. Here are the Google Maps directions for this road trip. Customize them by adding or removing stops, or leave them as is. Whatever you do, pack your beach gear (if you're traveling in the summer) and your camera, and have fun!
1. Vaill Beach – Block Island
Let's kick off our hidden gem beaches road trip on the ferry to Block Island, where we'll find the remote Vaill Beach. A scenic path leads to the rocky beach that's perhaps best known for its sea glass and breathtaking views. Surfing is popular here. Due to rough surf, swimming is challenging at best, so be careful if you venture into the water.
2. Wuskenau Town Beach – Westerly
We're making our way to Wuskenau Town Beach for our next stop. Also known as New Town Beach, the public beach promises plenty of space to spread out your beach gear soak up the sun, and cool off in the water. Daily passes and parking passes are required during the high season, and the cost depends on when you visit and the time of the day.
3. Buttonwoods Beach – Warwick
If you live in Warwick, you've probably been to this hidden gem beach (and park) multiple times. However, if it's your first time at Buttonwoods Beach, you'll quickly discover it's an idyllic spot to spend a day with the family. In addition to the sandy beach, Warwick City Park is also home to picnic tables, baseball fields, biking and hiking trails, and a playground.
4. Third Beach – Middletown
A family-friendly destination with grills and picnic tables, the seasonal Third Beach is particularly popular due to having fewer waves than other beaches. In addition to sunbathing and swimming, the beach is popular for kayaking.
5. South Shore Beach – Little Compton
Our final stop brings us to South Shore Beach in Little Compton. Open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the beach features several vendors, if you don't feel like bringing your own food or drink, but make sure to bring water. Port-a-potties are available, but running water is not. Daily, weekly, and seasonal beach passes are available.
What are your favorite hidden gem beaches in Rhode Island? Any that didn't make the list? Let us know in the comments! Road trips are one of the best ways to explore Rhode Island. Ready for more adventures? Here are 11 of the best road trips in Rhode Island.
Don't hit the road without checking out OIYS' road trip essentials packing list.
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/rhode-island/best-road-trips-in-rhode-island/
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