This Coastal Town in Rhode Island Feels Like It Belongs in Europe

Dry stone walls, picturesque meadows, rolling farmlands—these descriptions bring to mind places in Europe like the Cotswolds or perhaps even coastal France. But they're also very much a part of Little Compton, a coastal Rhode Island town that will make you feel as though you've landed in Europe. It's tucked away in Newport County, bordered by the Sakonnet River and the town of Westport. Spend the day or a long weekend here and you'll quickly uncover an abundance of European-inspired charms.

Much like European destinations, Little Compton is steeped in history. Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by Sakonnet Indians. Some of the oldest surviving buildings in the town date back to the late 1600s. Around that time, the town was given its name "Little Compton" after an area by the same name in Warwickshire, England.

Today, the town is home to about 3,500 residents, a number that nearly doubles in the summertime with the influx of visitors and vacationers. And it's no mystery why so many flock to this town when the weather's warm; the coastal atmosphere is idyllic for long summer days filled with beachcombing and sightseeing.

Our recommendation? Arrive to Little Compton early and give yourself all day to soak in this beautiful seaside town. A breakfast at Art Cafe is the perfect way to begin. Part cafe, part art gallery, this delightful local business is famous for its hospitality and croissants, which sell out quickly, so the earlier you get there, the better!

No trip to Little Compton is complete without some quality time on the water, and for this, we recommend a visit to South Shore Beach. This public beach features a picturesque shoreline with a mix of rocks and sand as well as an inland pond. Parking is $20 for non-residents and there are portapoties available to use. The water is clean, shallow, and monitored by lifeguards in the summertime.

Looking for more adventures? There are a handful of hiking trails in the area that showcase the region's breathtaking natural beauty. One local favorite is the Farmsite Simmons Pond Loop, a 2.3-mile loop that includes ponds and historic woodlands. Along the way, hikers will enjoy informative signs that offer information about the area.

Ready for some food? You're in luck—there's no shortage of delicious cuisine to be enjoyed nearby. Much like coastal European towns, which emphasize the local seafood, this region offers tons of fresh catches. Little Compton is perhaps most famous for Sakonnet Lobster Co., a locally owned and operated spot selling freshly-caught lobsters to be prepared at home. If you'd rather dine out, you'll likely want to make the short trip to Newport for a table at the Mooring Restaurant and its famous Narragansett Bay views.

When you're ready to call it a day, chances are, you won't want to leave. Fortunately, there are plenty of charming accommodations to choose from. One that's caught my eye is this darling, one-bedroom, one-bathroom Airbnb in Westport boasting resort-like amenities.

Looking for related content? Take a look at this list of the best beaches in Rhode Island to explore.