Dreaming of a classic New England beach getaway? Head to Narragansett! With scenic beaches, historic lighthouses, and mouthwatering seafood, this coastal gem is perfect for sun-seekers, surfers, and explorers alike. From family vacations to romantic weekends, Narragansett offers laid-back charm and stunning ocean views.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Narragansett is from late spring through early fall (May to September), when beach weather is at its best and seasonal restaurants, ferries, and attractions are in full swing.

How to Get There

  • If you are traveling by car: Narragansett is accessible via U.S. Route 1 and is about 1.5 hours from Boston and 3 hours from New York City.
  • By Train: Take Amtrak or MBTA to Kingston Station, then taxi or rideshare 15 minutes to town.
  • By Ferry: From nearby Galilee, catch the Block Island Ferry for a scenic island day trip.

Where to Stay

  • The Break Hotel – Trendy boutique hotel with ocean views, a rooftop lounge, and beachy vibes.
  • Ocean Rose Inn – Historic Victorian inn with waterfront charm and cozy rooms.
  • Hampton Inn South Kingstown – Family-friendly option near shops and restaurants, just minutes from the beach.

Top Attractions

Sunbathe and Swim at Popular Scarborough State Beach

Sunbathe and Swim at Popular Scarborough State Beach

© Oleksandr Shevchenko/stock.adobe.com

This beautiful, sandy beach has plenty of parking and a charging station for electric vehicles. Scarborough State Beach has been expanded and now includes an entire south complex that has a viewing tower that overlooks some of the land and the water below.

  • After doing some swimming, sun-bathing, or making huge sandcastles, you can head over to one of the two pavilions for an outdoor picnic.
  • Don’t worry, if those are full, there are over 75 picnic tables to have lunch at. A lifeguard is on duty during certain hours.
  • Once you are done with all the great activities for the day, everyone can wash off the sand and saltwater in the hot/cold showers located near the beach.

970 Ocean Road Narragansett, RI 02882, Phone: 401-789-2324

Scarborough State Beach is 50 minutes from Providence.


Relax with Family-Friendly Surf at Roger W. Wheeler State Beach

Relax with Family-Friendly Surf at Roger W. Wheeler State Beach

© 1989STUDIO/stock.adobe.com

Roger W. Wheeler State Beach is named after the man who designed the entire system in which Rhode Island keeps all the beaches and waters safe by employing trained lifeguards stationed strategically around the state. You can rest assured that there are lifeguards on duty at this beach from 9am – 6pm daily. Visitors of the beach may take part in fun sand activities and swimming. When it is time for lunch, there are over 60 picnic tables to eat at. If the kids need a break from building sand castles and swimming, they can go and play on the large playground located next to the beach. There is a large, paved parking lot to accommodate any vehicle.

100 Sand Hill Cove Road Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882, Phone: 401-789-3563

Stroll the Docks and Watch the Boats in Galilee Fishing Village

Stroll the Docks and Watch the Boats in Galilee Fishing Village

© jiawangkun/stock.adobe.com

Galilee is a small village built for fishing and tourism. It is located within Point Judith within the town of Narragansett. Galilee is considered to be small, but still is the home of the biggest fleet of fishing boats in the entire state. Visitors spend their time at the beaches nearby, doing some fishing at the docks, and hanging out at the various beach clubs. If you want to do some sea fishing or whale watching, you can charter a fishing vessel or tourist boat to take you out on the sea. There are plenty of places to eat fresh seafood in Galilee. You can also travel to Block Island via the Block Island Ferry to continue your Rhode Island journey.

Galilee - Narragansett, RI 02882

If you are a photographer:

Snap Coastal Views at the Iconic Point Judith Lighthouse

Snap Coastal Views at the Iconic Point Judith Lighthouse

© sbgoodwin/stock.adobe.com

Since 1810, Point Judith Lighthouse has been remodeled and rebuilt because it serves as an important beacon for ships and boats to travel the waters west of Narragansett and the north part of the Block Island Sound safely. This particular waterway has a great deal of traffic and serves all the fishing vessels, tourist boats, and private vessels to navigate the often-foggy conditions surrounding the area. The tower itself is made of solid granite and is a beautiful sight from the sea. Its light can be seen for up to 18 miles. Visitors can take a tour of the lighthouse during normal business hours. People learn about its history and all the good a simple lighthouse does for the area.

1460 Ocean Rd, Narragansett, RI 02882, Phone: 401-789-0444

Attend Events or Admire the Architecture of The Towers

Attend Events or Admire the Architecture of The Towers

© The Towers

This elegant structure has been standing since 1886 and was originally a part of the Narragansett Pier Casino. Since then, the casino itself had burned down in a devastating fire, but the towers stood still. The structure was renovated time and again after it had survived many nor-Easters, hurricanes, and another fire. Today, The Towers are used as a social gathering and event place for visitors and residents. The Towers are right next to the Town Beach and many eateries and restaurants including everything else in downtown Narragansett. The Towers offers weddings, dinners, dancing, and other social events.

35 Ocean Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island, Phone: 401-782-2597

If you are traveling with kids:

Wade in Calm Waters at Salty Brine State Beach

Wade in Calm Waters at Salty Brine State Beach

© peangdao/stock.adobe.com

Salty Brine State Beach is one of the most visited places in Narragansett because of the beautiful location and the newly built 2800 sq. ft. pavilion. The pavilion has all the visitor information, restrooms, a concession stand, hot/cold showers, a platform to view the beach, and provides a place to have lunch. Parking is always free and will hold up to 96 vehicles, which includes an electric charging station for electric vehicles. The entire facility on the Salty Brine State Beach is powered by a singular wind turbine located on the property.

254 Great Road Narragansett, Rhode Island, Phone: 401-789-3563

Camp by the Coast at Fishermen’s Memorial State Park

Camp by the Coast at Fishermen’s Memorial State Park

© ant/stock.adobe.com

Fishermen’s Memorial State Park and Campground provides a village type atmosphere with neatly cut grass, well-maintained trails and roads, and fun activities for kids and adults. People are welcome to book a campsite for tent camping or rent an RV campsite with plumbing and water hookups available. The grounds have tennis and basketball courts and playgrounds for the kids. And, of course, there are plenty of docks and maintained spots along the trees for fishing. The campground and state park is also within just one mile of other popular destinations like the Salty Brine State Beach, Scarborough State Beach, Roger Wheeler State Beach, and the Block Island Ferry.

Route 108 1011 Point Judith Road Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882, Phone: 401-789-8374

Step Into the Past at the South County Museum

Step Into the Past at the South County Museum

© South County Museum

Since 1933, South County Museum has been the sole collector of Narragansett’s history and memorabilia, and serves as a place of remembrance, history, and knowledge. The museum has over 20,000 unique items and offers tours almost daily. The building is housed on the Canonchet Farm, a 174-acre plot of land owned by the town of Narragansett. Today, the museum offers a wide array of events and accommodations, including wedding events, social events like carpentry and blacksmithing workshops, family outings and gatherings, workshops and classes in the Print Shop, pier walking tours, and many more programs for both adults and kids.

115 Strathmore Street Narragansett, RI 02882, Phone: 401-783-5400

Where to Eat

Feast on Fried Clams and Chowder at Aunt Carrie's

Feast on Fried Clams and Chowder at Aunt Carrie's

© Aunt Carrie’s

Dating all the way back to around 1920, Carrie Cooper and her husband Ulysses Cooper, along with their six children, began making cold lemonade and simple dishes like clambake and chowder for the local fishers and tourists. After word spread of the incredible food and cold drinks, Aunt Carrie’s became a hotspot when they built the restaurant. Today, you will be served homemade food, fresh seafood, homemade pies, and delicious ice cream made in-house by the fourth generation of the original Carrie Cooper family. The restaurant includes lunch and dinner menus along with an ice cream shop that serves many ice cream treats.

1240 Ocean Road Narragansett, RI 02882, Phone: 401-783-7930

Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:

  • Narragansett Town Beach – Famous for its clean sands, surf waves, and boardwalk atmosphere.

More Places to Eat

  • Coast Guard House – Upscale seafood dining with panoramic ocean views and fresh oysters.
  • Monahan’s Clam Shack – Casual beachside spot for clam cakes, lobster rolls, and chowder.
  • Crazy Burger – Funky local favorite for breakfast, smoothies, and creative burgers.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Narragansett Art Festival (June) – Outdoor show featuring regional artists, live music, and food vendors.
  • Blessing of the Fleet Festival (July) – Annual Galilee celebration with seafood, rides, and boat parade.
  • Narragansett Restaurant Week (Spring & Fall) – Enjoy prix fixe menus at top local eateries.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Narragansett, Rhode Island:

  • Block Island (via ferry, 25–30 min) – Rent bikes, hike bluffs, or beach-hop this coastal paradise.
  • Newport (30 min) – Tour historic mansions, stroll Cliff Walk, or enjoy waterfront dining.
  • South Kingstown (10–15 min) – Visit parks, breweries, or historic Kingston Village.
  • Wickford Village (20 min) – Browse boutiques and galleries in this charming harbor town.
  • Galilee (5–10 min) – Explore the working fishing port, enjoy seafood shacks, and catch the ferry.
  • Charlestown Breachway (25 min) – Fish, camp, or watch the boats and birds near the inlet.
  • Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge (20 min) – Hike to scenic coastal views and birdwatching spots.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Question: Where is Narragansett located?
    Answer: Narragansett is a town in Washington County, Rhode Island, located in the southeastern part of the state.
  • Question: What body of water is Narragansett situated near?
    Answer: Narragansett is located at the entrance to Narragansett Bay, on the Atlantic Ocean.


Plan Your Trip