Best Outdoor Attractions in Rhode Island | 2014 Editors’ Choice Awards

The Ocean State has plenty to offer in the Great Outdoors. Read our picks for the best outdoor attractions in Rhode Island for 2014. BEST BIKE TOURS: CYCLE BLACKSTONE LEISURELY BIKE TOURS, Pawtucket & Lincoln Pedal your way through the natural, cultural, and historical treasures of the Blackstone Valley. Led by Bob Billington, head of the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, participants (all fitness levels welcome) get a real insider’s dose of local lore. 401-724-2200; cycleblackstone.com/leisurelybiketour.htm BEST CHARTER FISHING: BLOCK ISLAND FISHWORKS, Block IslandWhether you hope to hook bass and blues or head offshore for tuna and mahi-mahi, Captain Christopher Willi is the go-to guide. Super-knowledgeable (he studied wildlife biology and management at URI), Willi takes a smart and sustainable approach to fishing, encouraging catch-and-release. Ocean Ave. 401-742-3992; bifishworks.com BEST SIGHTSEEING CRUISE: RHODE ISLAND BAY CRUISES LIGHTHOUSE CRUISE, North Kingstown Cruise past 10 of Rhode Island’s scenic lighthouses on this narrated tour aboard the Millennium. The 90-minute ride also takes passengers under the Jamestown and Newport bridges, past Fort Adams, and within a rock’s throw of many islands. 1347 Roger Williams Way. 401-295-4040; rhodeislandbaycruises.com BEST LOW-KEY BEACH: CHARLESTOWN BREACHWAY, Charlestown A family-friendly strip of sand that’s known for sweet swells, beautiful views of Block Island, and—best of all—smaller crowds. If you’re staying a while, on the east side is a camping area for self-contained RVs. You’ll find some of the best saltwater fishing in South County, too. Charlestown Beach Road. 401-364-7000; riparks.com BEST NATURE HIKE: NORMAN BIRD SANCTUARY, Middletown With 300-plus acres of nature preserve and seven miles of trails, hikers are treated to all types of terrain, from open fields to forests. Come armed with binoculars to spot swallows and sparrows, not to mention eye-popping panoramas of the Sakonnet River and the ocean. 583 Third Beach Road. 401-846-2577; normanbirdsanctuary.org