Plan An Idyllic Holiday At Watch Hill Beach RI

By Nita McKinney


Watch Hill Beach RI is a wonderful summer destination for swimming, sailing, fishing, hiking, surfing, and birdwatching. There's also local shopping and fine restaurants in this small town where everything is in walking distance. The town attracts tourists to it's scenic, idyllic coastline with a variety of seaside areas open to the public.

This exclusive town of wealthy summer "cottages" (mansions), is also a very affordable summer tourist destination. Stay in a hotel or inn, or rent a cottage or condo for a relaxing holiday. Boaters will find amply anchorage along the coast, and ample docking space at the local yacht club. Located between Boston and New York City, it's a perfect spot for a day trip to the seashore.

The dunes of Napatree Point Conservation area are a haven for migratory birds and several endangered species. In spring, part of the seashore is closed during the nesting season of the Piping Plover bird. Sandy footpaths along this peninsula offer an enchanting view of the ocean, village, mansions along the coastline, and Fishers Island, New York. Napatree Point is a favorite of birdwatchers. It also attracts boaters, anglers (on shore or from a boat), surfers, water skiers, and swimmers.

East Beach is on the Atlantic Ocean. Take the public right of way from Bluff Road to this coastline that stretches from the lighthouse past the Ocean House Hotel. Portions on either side are private. The free public areas are quiet, clean, and spacious, but there's no amenities or lifeguards. This shoreline is popular with sunbathers, swimmers, and surfers.

An antique carousel marks the road to Carousel Beach. The Flying Horse Carousel is quite unique. The horses are attached to chains suspended from a center frame so they swing outwards, or "fly". After a ride for the kiddies, follow Bay Street up the hill to a family friendly swimming area with lockers, showers, and a lifeguard.

The 7 miles of coastline between Watch Hill and Westerly is the Misquamicut shoreline. Visitors will find plenty of seaside open to fishing, swimming, surfing and boating. Many shops along the route offer jet ski, kayak, and paddle board rentals. There's also surfing gear for sale and opportunities to learn surfing skills. About half way there, stop and enjoy the state run swimming area with its picnic areas, separate swimming and surfing areas, concession stands, lifeguards, plenty of shade, and plenty of parking.

A few miles from Watch Hill, on the way to Westerly is the Atlantic Beach Park, a favorite with families. The park has a ferris wheel, antique carousel, kiddie amusement park, and gift shops. Next door is the Bayview Fun Park with go-karts, mini-golf, batting cages, and water slides. The public shoreline has a concession stand including a gift shop. Rent jet skis, paddle boards, or kayaks, or sign up for surfing lessons.

There's plenty of shoreline in walking distance of town. In addition to water sports and sunbathing, there's excellent boat or surf fishing off the waters of Watch Hill Beach RI. During the summer there's ample dock facilities for yachts as well as fishing boats and sail boats. Tourists can stay in town at a hotel or inn, or rent a cottage or condo.




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