Surfing
New England's Surf Capital
Narragansett has earned its reputation as New England's premier surf destination. The combination of south-facing exposure, sand and reef breaks, and consistent Atlantic swell makes it exceptional. Town Beach fires on south and southwest swells; Scarborough and Point Judith offer more powerful options for advanced surfers.
Full Surf GuideThe Narragansett Towers
The stone arch spanning Ocean Road is Narragansett's defining landmark. Built in 1884 by McKim, Mead & White as part of the grand Narragansett Casino, the twin towers are all that survive after a fire in 1900. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, they now frame the beach in timeless style.
The Towers are directly on the main beach approach — you can't miss them. The building inside hosts events and seasonal exhibits. Evening strolls through the arch with the beach lit by sunset are quintessential Narragansett.
Narragansett Town Beach
Town Beach is the epicenter of Narragansett summer life. Wide, sandy, and well-maintained, it stretches beneath the iconic Towers with views of Block Island Sound. Lifeguards are on duty in summer, and the beach has restrooms, outdoor showers, and a snack bar. Parking requires a permit for non-residents — buy online or at the gate.
Point Judith & The Block Island Ferry
Point Judith is where Narragansett meets the open Atlantic. The lighthouse here, first lit in 1810, stands sentinel over the entrance to Narragansett Bay. The surrounding area has a working harbor with commercial fishing boats, charter services, and the Block Island Ferry.
Block Island — just 13 miles offshore — is one of New England's great island escapes. The ferry runs year-round with high-speed service in summer. The island is car-free (bikes are ideal) and offers dramatic bluffs, nature preserves, and genuine escape from the mainland.
- →Block Island Ferry from Point Judith: 55 min traditional, 30 min high-speed
- →Point Judith Lighthouse (1810) — scenic grounds open to the public
- →Charter fishing boats depart daily for tuna, striped bass, and bluefish
Water Activities & Outdoor Adventures
Sailing & Kayaking
Block Island Sound and Narragansett Bay offer exceptional sailing. Several outfitters offer rentals and guided kayak tours of the coastal ponds and coves. The salt ponds south of Narragansett are perfect for flat-water paddling.
Sport Fishing
Narragansett waters are legendary for striped bass, bluefish, false albacore, and bluefin tuna. Charter operations run half-day and full-day trips from Point Judith throughout the season. Surf casting on the beaches and jetties is also popular.
Coastal Biking & Hiking
The South County Bike Path connects Narragansett to neighboring towns. Canonchet Farm has hiking trails through forested lands with ocean views. The Coastal Interpretive Trail along the cliffs south of the Towers offers dramatic scenery.
South County Exploring
Narragansett is the gateway to Rhode Island's finest coastal landscape. Scarborough State Beach to the north is one of the state's most beloved — wider and often less crowded than Town Beach. Jerusalem and Galilee, the fishing villages at Point Judith, are where the working harbor meets fresh-off-the-boat seafood restaurants.
- → Scarborough State Beach — expansive and family-friendly
- → South Kingstown beaches — quieter alternatives nearby
- → Galilee fishing village — authentic Rhode Island seafood culture
- → Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge — birding and nature walks