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Easton's Beach tourist attraction in Newport, RI
Photo: Deniz Senelt Kalelioğlu
View of Easton's Beach in Newport, RI
Photo: Susanne Spyros
View of Easton's Beach in Newport, RI
Photo: Wisco Simple

Easton's Beach

4.4(2,388 reviews)FreeActivity
🕑 4-6 hours for a full beach day👶 Best for all ages, newborns to teens. Toddlers and preschoolers love the shallow waters and sandcastle building, while older kids enjoy boogie boarding in the gentle waves. The calm conditions make it especially ideal for families with children under 10 who are still building water confidence.

About

Easton's Beach, affectionately known as "First Beach" by locals, is a quintessential New England family beach destination offering gentle waves perfect for young swimmers, soft sand ideal for castle building, and on-duty lifeguards for peace of mind. With its convenient amenities including chair and umbrella rentals, clean facilities, and a classic carousel nearby, this Newport gem takes the stress out of beach days with kids.

Highlights

  • Lifeguards on duty throughout the summer season for safe swimming
  • Gentle, calm waves perfect for beginner swimmers and young children
  • Beach equipment rentals including chairs, umbrellas, and boogie boards
  • Vintage carousel and snack bar within steps of the sand
  • Clean facilities with showers and changing rooms

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive before 10 AM on summer weekends to snag parking close to the beach entrance and claim a good spot before crowds arrive
  2. 2.Bring a large beach blanket or pop-up tent for shade, as umbrella rentals can run out on busy days
  3. 3.The Carousel next door is a nostalgic hit with kids and makes a perfect mid-afternoon break from the sun
  4. 4.Pack water shoes for little ones as the shoreline can have occasional pebbles and shells
  5. 5.Check the bathhouse facilities early in your visit so kids know where to find restrooms and outdoor showers

Best Time to Visit

Visit on weekday mornings in July and August for the warmest water and smallest crowds. Arrive between 9-10 AM to enjoy calmer seas before afternoon breezes pick up, and stake out your spot before the lunch rush.

What to Know

There's a per-person admission fee during summer season (typically $10-20 for adults, less for kids). Parking is available in adjacent lots for an additional fee. The beach has a snack bar, restrooms, and changing facilities on-site, plus equipment rentals available.

Seasonal Notes

Beach season runs Memorial Day through Labor Day with full amenities and lifeguards. Off-season visits are possible but facilities and rentals are closed, and there are no lifeguards on duty. Water is warmest in July and August.

Nearby Eats

Try The Smoke House for casual BBQ and kid-friendly fare just a short drive away, or grab fish and chips at Flo's Clam Shack (seasonal) for a classic Rhode Island beach meal the whole family will enjoy.

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Second Beach is a quintessential New England beach destination that families absolutely adore, boasting soft sand, lifeguard supervision, and gentle-to-moderate waves perfect for boogie boarding adventures. With rental facilities on-site and a spacious shoreline that rarely feels overcrowded, parents can relax while kids play in the surf, build sandcastles, or splash in the shallows along this scenic stretch of Newport coastline.

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The Cliff Walk offers families an unforgettable 3.5-mile journey along Newport's dramatic coastline, combining breathtaking ocean views with glimpses of historic Gilded Age mansions. This iconic path features both easy paved sections perfect for strollers and more rugged terrain for adventurous older kids, making it adaptable to your family's comfort level. The stunning natural beauty and fresh sea air provide an enriching outdoor experience that keeps kids engaged while parents soak in the spectacular scenery.

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