Narragansett Town Beach in Narragansett, Rhode Island
Photo Credit : Kim Knox Beckius
Bordering the ocean in the southeast corner of Rhode Island is the beautiful town of Narragansett, a spot that uniquely identifies as a luxurious destination with a laid-back surfer culture, and more than doubles in population in the summertime (for good reason, as you can go from lounging on the beach to fine dining, or browsing boutiques to exploring a lighthouse).
Here are some of our favorite ways to spend a summer weekend in Narragansett, Rhode Island. For even more travel inspiration, check out episode 11 in season 3 of Weekends with Yankee, in which we head to Narragansett to catch some of the best waves in New England.
Narragansett Town Beach in Narragansett, Rhode Island Photo Credit : Kim Knox Beckius
Plan Your Perfect Summer Weekend in Narragansett
5 Essential Things to Do in Narragansett, Rhode Island
Built in 1857 and still an active navigational aid (and free attraction), the iconic octagonal brown and white lighthouse at Point Judith overlooks a dangerous spot where shipwrecks were once commonplace. For panoramic views of Point Judith Light, turn off Ocean Road and visit the Point Judith Fishermen’s Memorial.
Surf
Looking to catch some of the best waves in New England? Instructors from two in-town outfitters — Warm Winds Surf Shop and Narragansett Surf & Skate Shop — will meet you at the beach with all the gear and guidance you need.
Shop
Head to the charming Narragansett Pier Marketplace, where you can start with a sugar kick and a beach pail full of nostalgic treats at Nana’s Candy Bar, buy some pretty shells, sea biscuits, and sand dollars at Shell Boutique, or get some trendy sun protection at Shades.
Block Island Ferry
Sail away to beautiful Block Island from Point Judith in Narragansett, where the Block Island Ferry offers traditional ferry service (a 55 minute voyage) or a high-speed ferry service (a 30 minute voyage).
City meets seashore at this 16-room boutique hotel with beach house style and high end amenities. Guests can stroll to Scarborough State Beach, relax by the heated saltwater pool, or book a massage. As the day nears its end, the rooftop cocktail lounge is the spot to be to catch the sunset.
A family beach vacation is within your budget with a stay at The Anchor Motel, a clean, comfortable motel right across the street from Scarborough State Beach. All 15 rooms boast ocean views, plus kids 10 and younger stay free (in addition to free parking and beach admission).
Stay amongst historic homes of 19th century whaling captains at this 31-room Victorian-style inn, where the nautical charm, ocean view, and sandy beachfront will have you feeling relaxed in no time. Enjoy upscale-casual, full-service dining at the on site Turtle Soup Restaurant, or head to the outside bar for an after-beach refreshment.
5 Restaurants to Try in Narragansett, Rhode Island
The Coast Guard House Restaurant (c. 1940s), a casual fine dining spot, is celebrated for its locally harvested seafood and unrivaled view of Narragansett Bay. In fact, we think it’s one of the best dining experiences with an ocean view in the state.
Located on sandy shoreline, Trio is a fun, modern dining spot where friends and family can gather to enjoy the raw bar and cocktails, or a full meal outside on the cobblestone patio.
Crazy Burger Cafe has earned quite a following thanks to its eclectic menu and quality cooking, including breakfast favorites like cinnamon roll French toast and tofu scrambles (served until 4 PM), burgers made with poultry, fish, bean, tempeh, mushroom, and beef options, and made-to-order juices, shakes, lemonades, and smoothies.
Does a hot summer Rhode Island day have you in the mood for fresh seafood, ice cream, shakes, or floats? With a location on the famed Narragansett seawall, you can enjoy all that at Monahan’s Clam Shack, plus a great ocean view.
Enjoy any meal of the day at this fun, bike-themed eatery popular among locals. Wood fired pizza, fish tacos, barbecue pulled pork, and lobster mac and cheese are among some of the must-try options.
