Are you looking for a family-friendly beach vacation that offers picture-perfect views and endless activities? Look no further, we’re rounding up Newport, RI’s best beaches for kids.
Newport, RI is located on and island, surrounded by stunning views, a gorgeous harbor, and plenty of sandy beaches. Whether you’re looking for a place to surf or a quieter beach to build sandcastles, we’ve rounded up the best kid friendly beaches in Newport. Note that in the summer months, beaches can be very crowded and parking can be difficult to find. Certain beaches require stickers, with limited spaces available for public parking/non-passholders. Read on for more about the best kid friendly beaches in Newport. You might also like: The Best Beaches in Rhode Island.
Newport, RI’s Best Beaches for Kids
Sachuest Beach (Second Beach)
Sachuest Beach, also known as Second Beach, is one of the most popular beaches on Aquidneck Island. The beach itself is a long stretch of sand with a slightly rocky area towards the very end, closer to Sachuest Point Wildlife Refuge. During the summer there are multiple lifeguard stands. Second Beach offers a variety of outdoor activities such as boogie boarding, paddle boarding, and surfing. There is a snack bar at the middle of Sachuest Beach along with restrooms and showers available at Surfer’s End.
Public parking for non-passholders is only available at the middle lot. Drive past Surfer’s End (the first parking lot) until you reach the gate where you can pay for parking.
Third Beach
Just a short drive from Second Beach, Third Beach is another great option for families looking for a more laid-back beach experience. The beach is located in a bay, which means the water is typically calmer and particularly suited for younger or less experienced swimmers.
Third Beach also has a great snack shack located at the Peabody’s end of the beach. They have grilled food, smoothies, snacks and more. If you’re looking for a day of peace and relaxation, Third Beach is the perfect spot to kick back and unwind. The only public parking for non-passholders available at Third Beach is located at the Peabody’s end. You can also rent umbrellas and beach chairs.
Parking at the middle and far end of the beach are only available to those with beach stickers (residents only), but you are allowed to use the beach, so ride your bike or get dropped off.
Gooseberry Beach
Gooseberry Beach is tucked away in a quiet cove with calm waters perfect for little swimmers. The small beach boasts plenty of space for families to spread out and enjoy a day by the water. Gooseberry also has restrooms and a snack bar.
While Gooseberry Beach is a member club, it is also open to the public. One of the unique features of Gooseberry Beach is the small, rocky island just off the shore that’s accessible during low tide. Kids will love venturing out to explore the island and search for shells and other treasures. Gooseberry Beach requires a parking fee to enter.
Easton’s Beach (First Beach)
One of Newport’s most popular and well-known beaches is First Beach, also known as Easton’s Beach. Located just a few miles from downtown Newport, this beach is a favorite for families with a large playground and snack bar.
In addition to swimming, visitors can rent boogie boards, paddleboards, and even take surf lessons. There are several parking lots that require a fee and there is also metered street parking on Memorial Blvd along the beach.
Fort Adams State Park
Fort Adams State Park is a great destination for families visiting Newport, RI. Parking at Fort Adams State Park is free, and the small sandy beach is a great option for families looking to enjoy a sandy spot in the harbor.
You can also pack a picnic and spread out on the large lawn in front of the Eisenhower House. Families also enjoy walking around the entire Fort for great views of the Newport Bridge and harbor. There are some hidden rocky spots along the water around the Fort where you might see fisherman or scuba divers.
Sandy Point Beach
Sandy Point Beach is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a quiet and calm day with your family. Located nearby in Portsmouth, this beach offers stunning views of the Narragansett Bay with tranquil waters for swimming. Sandy Point requires sticker parking for residents or non-residents can pay an entrance fee when lifeguards are on duty. There are no restrooms or food available for purchase at Sandy Point so pack a lunch!
Newport, RI boasts some of the most family-friendly beaches on the East Coast. Easton’s Beach, Sachuest Beach, Third Beach, Gooseberry Beach, Fort Adams State Park, and Sandy Point Beach all offer something unique for families with kids of all ages. From building sandcastles and swimming to playgrounds and picnic areas, Newport’s beaches are the perfect way to spend a day in the sun with family.
