Middletown
#3 in Best Rhode Island Beaches
Named for its location in the middle of Newport County’s Aquidneck Island, Middletown boasts two noteworthy shores. Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach, as it’s known locally) faces south and offers extensive amenities (think: surfboard rentals, showers and grills) and excellent surfing conditions. Third Beach, by comparison, faces east and is perfect for beachgoers looking for smaller waves, thinner crowds and beautiful harbor views. Before packing up your beach chairs, be sure to grab a drink from the Del’s Lemonade stand, which can be found by Third Beach’s boat ramp.
Charlestown
#4 in Best Rhode Island Beaches
Often considered one of Rhode Island’s hidden gems, this coastal town is a nature lover’s paradise. Pack your gear and go saltwater fishing at Charlestown Breachway State Beach, or set up a tent at one of the town’s spacious beachfront campgrounds. The skies in Charlestown are so dark, you may see the Milky Way while camping or visiting the Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center. For more fun in the sun, head to family-friendly Blue Shutters Town Beach or East Beach, a remote 3-mile-long barrier beach with breathtaking views.
