Rhode Island is a summer beach destination for families – near and far. With over 400 miles of coastline, narrowing down which beach is best for you and your family can be challenging. We highlighted the top 5 family-friendly beaches in Rhode Island based on surf, amenities, and atmosphere for a fun-filled day of sun, sand, and sea.
All state beaches are open during the summer season from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (weekdays) and 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (weekends and holidays). Be sure to purchase your parking pass ahead of time so you can use the express lane when you arrive!
1. Roger Wheeler State Beach: Narragansett
100 Sand Hill Cove Road
Regarding favorite family-friendly beaches, look no further than Roger Wheeler State Beach! Roger Wheeler State Beach, also known as Sand Hill Cove Beach, is nestled in Narragansett and features small waves, soft sands, and a gradual water decline for young beachgoers. As a bonus, there is a kid-friendly environmental education area – where your family can learn more about Rhode Island wildlife. This beach offers public restrooms, indoor and outdoor showers, ample parking, and concessions at Salty’s Burger & Seafood. *
2. Misquamicut State Beach: Westerly
257 Atlantic Avenue
Misquamicut is Rhode Island’s most popular state beach – with over half a mile of beachfront in the heart of Westerly. This beach has a picnic area, a playground, and nearby restaurants and gift shops. Take a break from the beach at the arcade and carousel at the Atlantic Beach Park, rent a paddleboard from Purple Ape, or play a round of mini golf at Bayview Fun Park – all within walking distance from your beach chair! The parking lot fills up fast, so plan on arriving early or check the status of the beach parking lot before you travel.
3. Sachuest Beach (Second Beach): Middletown
315 Sachuest Point Road
Visit one of Aquidneck Island’s most popular beaches! Sachuest Beach, often called Second Beach, offers a one-mile stretch of small waves and clear waters. You will also find bathrooms, showers, concessions, picnic tables, and grills! This beach is a great place to collect rocks and seashells with little ones. Up for an adventure? Surfboard rentals and lessons are available during the season at Surf’s End, located on the west end of the beach. Don’t forget to grab a refreshing Del’s Lemonade to make it a truly Rhode Island beach day! Parking rates apply during the beach months, Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Parking fees range from $20 on weekdays to $30 on weekends, and holidays or season passes are available for purchase.
4. Salty Brine State Beach:: Galilee
254 Great Road
Salty Brine State Beach, formerly known as Galilee State Beach, is an excellent destination for families looking to spend a day by the sea. With its sandy shoreline, calm waters, and amenities, it has everything you need for a family-friendly beach day! The shaded beach pavilion offers public restrooms, coin-operated hot showers, and food concessions. It is only steps away from the port of Galilee and nearby restaurants. Grab local chowder and clamcakes at George’s of Galilee or Champlin’s Seafood, sit on the boardwalk and wave to the fishing boats and passengers on the Block Island Ferry. Be sure to arrive early, as the parking lot fills up fast!
5. East Matunuck State Beach:: South Kingstown
950 Succotash Road
Located in South Kingstown, this beach is known for its big waves – making it a crowd favorite for swimmers and boogie board extraordinaire! The modern pavilion offers public restrooms, indoor and outdoor showers, and food and gift concessions. Lifeguards are on duty all season! Stay up to date on the tide and surf conditions here. Make a pit stop on your way home at The Fantastic Umbrella Factory! This hidden gem is home to tropical greenhouses, gardens, gift shops, and farm animals. You can purchase feed at Small Axe to feed the goats, chickens, emus, and other free-range birds on the property.
No matter which family-friendly beaches in Rhode Island you head to this summer, we hope you find the perfect spot for your family to enjoy summer in Rhode Island. Need help figuring out what to pack in your beach bag? We’ve compiled a list of beach essentials for a fun-filled beach day!
If you want more family-friendly beaches in New England, check out these top 12 beaches in the Greater Boston Area!
