Photo: ajay_suresh / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
Rhode Island’s constitution protects the public’s right to use the shore, but parking near the beach is another matter. In South County, beach lots are run by towns, by the state and by private beach associations and clubs, and each sets its own rules and fees.
State beaches
The Department of Environmental Management runs several of the region’s best-known beaches, including Scarborough, Roger W. Wheeler and Salty Brine in Narragansett, East Matunuck in South Kingstown, Misquamicut in Westerly and East Beach in Charlestown. Daily parking fees apply during the summer season, with lower rates for Rhode Island residents. Season passes are sold for state beaches, again with different resident and nonresident prices, and seniors may qualify for discounts. Rates are posted on the Rhode Island State Parks website each year.
Narragansett Town Beach
Narragansett Town Beach is run by the town, which charges walk-on admission for beachgoers as well as parking fees. Seasonal parking passes are limited to eligible residents and taxpayers, while nonresidents pay daily parking rates, which are higher on weekends and holidays. The town posts current fees and pass rules each spring.
South Kingstown
South Kingstown operates town beach facilities, including the town beach at Matunuck, with resident permits and daily fees. Check the town’s Leisure Services department for current permits and lots.
Westerly and Charlestown
Westerly’s town beach facilities and private lots around Misquamicut charge seasonal and daily fees; Watch Hill parking is limited and fills early. Charlestown manages Blue Shutters Town Beach and resident parking permits for town lots, while East Beach parking is run by the state and has limited space.
Tips
- Arrive early on hot weekends; many lots fill by late morning.
- Bring proof of residency if you plan to buy a resident pass.
- Check for shoreline rights-of-way. CRMC designates public access points to the shore, and its online maps show their locations, though most have little or no parking.
- Bike or ride RIPTA where you can; summer routes serve several beaches.
