Take This Unforgettable Road Trip To Experience Some Of Rhode Island’s Most Impressive Beaches And Waterfalls
By Beth Price-Williams|Published March 20, 2023
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Rhode Island’s made for exploring, whether we have a few hours, an entire day, or a weekend. We don’t have to worry about spending too much time in the car either. When you’ve got a day – or better yet, a few days – hit the road on this road trip to the best beaches and waterfalls in Rhode Island.
This Rhode Island road trip will take you 138 miles in just over 3.5 hours of drive time plus the time at each destination. Here are the Google Map directions, which you can easily customize to meet your timeframe and interests.
Set off on an epic road trip any time of the year. If you go during the summer, be sure to bring along your swimming gear.
Let's kick off this road trip in Rhode Island at East Beach in Charlestown. You don't even have to get out of the car, if you don't want to. That's right. Make sure you get a Barrier Beach Pass and have a four-wheel-drive vehicle then you can drive right up to the water. Or, get out of the car for a leisurely stroll along the sandy beach. Read more about this beautiful Rhode Island beach in our previous article.
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2. Narragansett Town Beach - Narragansett
Narragansett Town Beach, 39 Boston Neck Rd, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA
You'll pay an admission fee if you visit Narragansett Town Beach during the summer season, but it's well worth it for the absolutely gorgeous views of the water. A visit during the off-season is just as spectacular and much quieter, if it's tranquility for which you're looking. Read more about this Rhode Island beach in our previous article.
When you're packing for this Rhode Island road trip, make sure you add comfy shoes for a few scenic hikes. Your first hike will take you through the Ken Weber Conservation Area on a 1.1-mile trail. It leads straight to the 12-foot Cascade Brook Falls, the tallest waterfall in Rhode Island. Take a peek at the natural beauty that awaits on the trail to this waterfall in Rhode Island.
4. Waterfall Café – Harrisville
Waterfall Cafe & Martini Bar, 35 East Ave, Harrisville, RI 02830, USA
Our next stop brings us to Waterfall Cafe for a delicious meal. But, first...cross the street, and marvel at Harrisville Falls (pictured above). It's absolutely breathtaking in all seasons. Then head back to Waterfall Cafe, where you'll find a delightful menu of pizza, steak, seafood, and pasta. See all the deliciousness and beauty that awaits at this waterfall cafe in Rhode Island.
Gear up for a hike along the Ben Utter Trail, a 2.7-mile trek that will lead you to perhaps the most famous waterfall in Rhode Island: Stepstone Falls. The kid-friendly trail is pretty in all seasons. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, too, including rabbits and deer. Learn more about this waterfall trail in Rhode Island.
Craving peace and quiet? A stroll along Watch Hill Beach in the off-season is paradise. In the summer? With its old-fashioned carousel, sandy beach, and striking views, Watch Hill Beach is everything summer should be. Read more about this beloved beach in Rhode Island in our previous article.
Have you been to these beaches and waterfalls in Rhode Island? Which are your favorites? Let us know in the comments! For another unique adventure, visit this Rhode Island state park.
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