9 Coolest Rhode Island Towns For A Summer Vacation In 2025
Even though it is the smallest state in the country, Rhode Island has some major perks that make it an incredible location for a summer vacation. With over 400 miles of coastline, everyone who lives in Rhode Island can get to the water in thirty minutes or less. This is a major perk for vacationers in the Ocean State—it’s easy to zip back and forth across Rhode Island to explore other towns, reserve a table at the buzziest restaurants, and find the very best beaches. When you’re ready to plan your most memorable summer trip ever, these nine towns are the ones to consider. Whether you are catching a ferry to Block Island from Narragansett or watching fireworks light up the historic streets of Bristol, each spot promises something uniquely Rhode Island.
Bristol
Since HGTV just chose Bristol as the “most charming small town in Rhode Island,” it’s no wonder that the eastern seaport is gaining popularity with tourists as a top-tier summer escape. Its downtown area gushes with touches of Americana—the Colonial and Victorian-era homes are often painted red, white, or blue. The picturesque waterfront offers many excellent seafood restaurants like the well-rated SS Dion and Quito’s Restaurant and Bar.
Of course, any summer vacation in Bristol must include getting out on the water. The seaside town has miles of coastline and a protected harbor, perfect for kayaking and windsurfing. The waters of Narragansett Bay also call for fishing, which you can do with a chartered boat from River Rebel. If you are visiting Bristol over the 4th of July, you’re in luck as the small town throws a huge bash for Independence Day, boasting the oldest in the country. Festivities include a carnival, foot races, a photography contest, and a macaroni supper, just to name a few. Of course, the event would not be complete without a fireworks display and parade finale, two highlights of the summer celebration.
Narragansett
At the entrance to the bay of the same name, darling Narragansett delivers southern Rhode Island coastal charm for days. Accented by the Point Judith Lighthouse, the desired destination almost doubles in population for the summer months as people flock here for the surfing, soft sand, and shellfish.
In Narragansett, spending a day at the beach is mandatory. The 19-acre Town Beach is conveniently located a short walk from the town’s historic downtown area and is also an incredible spot for surfing, thanks to the curling waves. A little further south is the small Salty Brine Beach, a family-friendly option because of its gentle tide, concessions, and boardwalk along the jetty. It’s also a great place to catch a sunset.
While you’re there, take a high-speed ferry from the mainland to Block Island for the day. If you want to hike, try the Clay Head Trail and Maze, which will lead you to either a remote beach or a stroll along the bluffs, depending on which turn you take. At the very top is what locals call “the maze,” a network of interconnected, unmarked paths allowing you to wander for as long as you’d like.
Westerly
This Washington County town is an evergreen favorite for a summer getaway, not to mention the home of a certain music megastar (Taylor Swift) when she’s in her New England era. Bookended by the Pawcatuck River and the Block Island Sound, Westerly is guaranteed holiday fun.
Because “beaches are just the beginning,” as the town’s motto claims, you’ll also love Westerly’s downtown scene, which is bursting with trendy shops and restaurants. You can easily spend a day exploring the alluring boutiques and specialty stores. Start at Martin House Books with a coffee from the attached Cafe 1888 and a leisurely stroll through the aisles. The cozy, red-bricked interior also features the Above the Books gallery, where local artists can display pieces. You will also adore the nationally recognized River Bar for dinner. Selected by ‘Esquire’ as the best new restaurant of 2024, the raw bar and menu offer divine local seafood right on the Pawcatuck.
Do not worry; there is plenty of family fun to have in Westerly. Head to Manfredi Farms, a family-owned operation, where you can buy fresh blueberries, interact with the animals, and pick your own sunflowers in August. You can’t miss a ride on the Flying Horse carousel, a summertime rite of passage in the Watch Hill resort neighborhood.
East Greenwich
Situated in the state's center, East Greenwich is another fabulous place to unplug during summer. It is home to Goddard State Park, the most popular in Rhode Island, welcoming thousands of visitors each year. With 18 miles of bridle paths, a great way to discover the park is by horseback. C and L Stables’ expert guides can help riders of all experience levels navigate the trails overlooking East Greenwich Bay.
Of note, East Greenwich is the birthplace of the Navy in 1772, and history buffs will love the Varnum Armory Museum. Featuring the largest collection of Rhode Island military history, the hundreds of exhibited artifacts convey stories from the American Revolution, the Civil War, and even modern times. For a night out, East Greenwich’s rustic downtown is perfect. Start with dinner at La Masseria, the locals’ choice for authentic Italian cuisine. Catch a show at the Greenwich Odeum, one of the state’s premier performing arts spaces. There you’ll find film screenings, concerts performed by regional and national artists, and well-known standup comedians.
Wakefield
A small village inside the town of South Kingston, Wakefield, rests on the western bank of the Saugatucket River. As the town’s commercial center, Wakefield offers more of an urban vibe if you need a break from the beach. A visit to the iconic Mews Tavern is a must. This tiny fisherman’s tavern turned into a traditional New England pub, receiving accolades and patrons from across South Kingston for its 69 beers on draft. Belly up to one of its three bars, or settle into a cozy wooden booth for award-winning pizza, burgers, and wings.
For a truly unique experience, stop at Lavender Waves Farm, voted as a top New England attraction by ‘Yankee Magazine.’ With over 4,000 lavender plants growing onsite, you will be awestruck by the beauty of the rolling purple hills. Opening weekend kicks off in the middle of June with an Art Market, and the farm will host a variety of events throughout the season, like yoga and sound baths. One of Wakefield’s coolest summer events is called RiverFire, and it’s exactly what it sounds like. A collection of bonfires is lit as the sun starts to set, and while the glowing fires float on the Saugatucket River, live musicians perform on the Contemporary Theater’s outdoor stage. Talk about ambiance!
Tiverton
Tiverton is an integral part of Rhode Island’s Farm Coast, a collection of small towns on the southern coastline dedicated to homegrown food, farming, and sustainable living. Located just 15 miles from Newport, the town resembles an 18th-century New England village in the most charming of ways.
Tiverton Four Corners, a rural village in Tiverton proper, would be an excellent way to start your summer vacation. The cedar shake buildings house the most incredible independent shops like the Cabana Collective, a clothing and home goods store with a coastal flair, and Groundswell Garden + Home, a haven for green thumbs and home entertainers. While you’re there, be sure to meander through the sculptures at Four Corners Arts Center and Sculpture Park, an artsy oasis featuring both curated exhibits and permanent works by world-renowned artists. Cap off your visit to Four Corners with an ice cream at Gray’s, a Tiverton institution since 1923.
A trip to Tiverton wouldn’t be complete without dinner at the Boat House. With a blooming hydrangea-lined path welcoming you and showstopping waterfront views of Mt. Hope Bay, the restaurant’s atmosphere is unmatched. Add in delicious seafood and a stroll on the restaurant’s riverside dock after dinner, and you’ve got an evening that can’t be beat.
Newport
Located on Aquidneck Island, Newport is often called the Queen of Summer Resorts, as it has consistently been an in-vogue destination for summertime wayfarers. Spend some time at Bowen’s Wharf, an 18th-century commercial wharf converted to a modern entertainment complex. With nods to Newport’s maritime heritage all over, Bowen’s Wharf makes for a great night out with various dining and nightlife options, topped off with live music, glimmering lights, and boats coming in and out of the harbor.
If you’ve seen ‘A Complete Unknown,’ you know that the Newport Folk Festival is where Bob Dylan rattled the hippies by plugging in his electric guitar instead of playing acoustic. All these decades later, the legendary music fest is still going strong, and if you’re visiting Newport in July, be sure to grab a ticket to see the best folk acts in the country.
There’s no better way to feel like you’re on vacation than a car ride with the windows rolled all the way down. Cruise along Ocean Drive, a ten-mile stretch of road with jaw-dropping views of the water. It’s time to stretch your legs when you arrive at Gooseberry Beach, a secluded beach with a protected cove, making it optional for swimming.
Charlestown
One of Little Rhody’s lesser-known towns, Charlestown boasts secluded strips of beach, a number of forest and wildlife preserves, and even a swamp. The varied landscapes offer a lengthy list of recreation options for the avid hikers, bikers, and swimmers, and the town’s tight-knit community will make you feel right at home.
Set aside time to explore Charlestown’s Ninigret Park, which is always a hit with visitors. Go on a hunt for the two gigantic wooden trolls hidden in the park. Created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo with the help of local volunteers, the magical trolls are upcycled from wood scraps, straw, rocks, and other repurposed items. Also located within the park is the Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center, which offers free stargazing every Friday night, weather permitting. You can join expert astronomers who will guide you to use their telescopes and learn about star clusters, planetary features, and faraway galaxies there.
August 2025 will mark the 40th anniversary of the Charlestown Seafood Fest, a beloved community event that puts local lobsters, oysters, and clams at center stage. Of course, with a carnival running alongside the seafood smorgasbord, you can also opt for standard fair food like funnel cakes, kettle corn, and the famous Del’s frozen lemonade.
Jamestown
Jamestown is an island unto itself, and a teensy one at that. With only 9.7 square miles to work with, the town packs a lot of summer fun into a small area. One of the most visited attractions in Jamestown is the Beavertail Lighthouse Museum, the site of the third-oldest lighthouse in North America. The museum teaches visitors about the history of the Beavertail Lighthouse and its keepers, and while it’s not open to the public year round, the museum offers a number of summer days for people to climb the tower for a $5 suggested donation.
Take a turn by Windmist Farm, a bucolic setting sure to help you relax. Their onsite store offers seasonal veggies, fresh eggs, and local honey. When apples are in season in late summer, that’s when you’ll start to see the Hard Pressed Cider Company’s pop-up stand at the farm. Stop by for the best sweet apple cider and apple cider doughnuts you’ve ever had. While you’re out in the countryside, drop by Clancy Designs Glass Blowing Studio, a space just bursting with color and imagination. You can try your hand at making your own glass-blown creation, or simply peruse the many showcased pieces made by owners Dave and Jennifer Clancy.
Vacationing in the Ocean State
So, be sure to add these nine towns to your Little Rhody itinerary this summer. Whether you are horseback riding in East Greenwich, sunbathing at Gooseberry Beach in Newport, or doing yoga in the lavender fields of Wakefield, you are promised new experiences, relaxation, and definitely fun. The best part is that, because of the Ocean State’s small size, you can effortlessly take a day trip to a nearby coastal town and do it all over again. Rhode Island makes for an ideal New England summer—the hardest part is choosing where to begin.
