Misquamicut Beach, Rhode Island

Everything the RV Renter Needs to Know

Rhode Island isn’t a large state, but it packs a punch in terms of places to go and things to do. Misquamicut Beach is one of those prime places that brings in both locals and travelers looking for a nice play to enjoy, relax, and stay for a while. Ideal for both a day trip or posting up to enjoy for the long haul, Misquamicut Beach is one of those idyllic New England beaches that people love.

As part of a barrier island, Misquamicut Beach is three miles of coastline on the Atlantic Ocean, in the town of Westerly. Despite Rhode Island’s stature, the beach actually covers about 51 acres, giving you and other visitors plenty of space to stretch out, enjoy the sun, and jump in the water.

Why Visit Misquamicut Beach in Your Rented RV?

Given Rhode Island’s size, it’s easy (and ideal) to take in via a road trip. You can leisurely take your time cruising by spot to spot, see as much as you want, and not need to drive terribly long to the next spot. WIth Misquamicut Beach, you’re right on the ocean and also in prime position to visit other spots either the same day or later in the week—whatever you prefer.

Swimming

Of course, one of the best ways to enjoy the beach is by swimming in the ocean. The North Atlantic’s cool waters are great for swimming throughout the summer, and draw a large crowd every year. Misquamicut Beach is one of the state’s most popular and runs for three miles along the coast.

There are events held regularly around the beach. These range from concerts to fun family-friendly activities. Along with that, you’ll find picnic tables, pavilions, and a few snack and drink stands along the way. The swimming is also patrolled by lifeguards, making it even safer for the family to enjoy.

The Shops

Up and down the main stretch, you’ll find lots of fun shops and restaurants that sit beachfront. From clothing to souvenirs, you’ll no doubt want to take advantage of this area by leisurely walking up and down the strip and popping in and out.

If you’re looking to get more acquainted with the New England lifestyle, you’ll love the boutiques. There are also surf shops for those of you looking to catch a wave. Visit a souvenir shop and take home any various knickknacks to help remind you and your family of the amazing time you had in Misquamicut Beach in your rental RV.

Block Island

Way out off the coast of Misquamicut Beach, you might see a spot of land. This is Block Island. It’s about nine miles off the mainland. This area makes for a great day trip location if you need a break from the mainland beaches. While it’s definitely popular, there are lots of ways to spread out and enjoy the island—sometimes feeling like you have it all to yourself.

You can take the Block Island Ferry to get there, then plan to spend the day. There are quaint lighthouses, small villages, and opportunities to kayak, hike, and bicycle to your heart’s content. Enjoy the historical buildings, the coastal views, and the many other things that welcome you on Block Island. There are also full tours and lots of great restaurants on the island as well. Kick back and enjoy it. 

Atlantic Beach

If the sun, surf, and swimming aren’t doing it for you one day, head to Atlantic Beach. It’s so much more than just a place to enjoy the water, and the perfect place to enjoy with the whole family. This is where you’ll find lots of opportunities to enjoy the town and the fun-filled activities that are part of any vacation.

Enjoy a nice round of competitive mini golf. Slip and slide down a monster water slide. Or go around and around on a restored carousel from 1915. You’ll find amusement and good times everywhere you look. During the summer, you’ll find lots of family activities, like concerts and classic car shows, going well into the evenings.

Boating

One of the most beautiful things about being in New England and on the Atlantic is the opportunity to be on the water itself. And no matter how much you’ve boated in your life, getting out on the Atlantic is something special. Misquamicut Beach makes it even easier to get out there.

All around the beach, there are multiple opportunities to rent boats, from motorboats to kayaks to sailboats. They’re all a part of the local Atlantic-coast culture. Want something a little on the easier side? Rent a paddleboat and go put those legs to work. You can also go hog-wild and rent a jet ski—and even take a tour by boat to really learn about your surroundings.

Campgrounds and RV Parks for Misquamicut Beach

Misquamicut Beach is a state beach, but not a state park. That means you can’t technically camp here—and you wouldn’t want to bring your RV on to the sand anyway even if you could, as they get precarious when you’re trying to level them. There are plenty of other full-fledged campgrounds around the area with numerous amenities, and they will be happy to have you camp with them.

Ashaway RV Resort

Located nicely between Westerly, Rhode Island and Mystic, Connecticut, Ashaway RV Resort puts you in a prime position to enjoy as many recreational opportunities as possible. And it’s loaded with amenities as well. An arcade, game room, mini golf, and several athletic courts can keep you and the kids plenty entertained when you’re not on the beach. A spa is perfect for adults to unwind. This is, of course, in addition to the sites with full hookups.

Seaport RV Resort & Campground

Just across the state border in Mystic, Connecticut, Seaport RV Resort & Campground is an all-ages spot that’s perfect for your entire family. There are spacious sites here with water and electric hookups. They also include a fire ring and picnic table for a true camping experience. (Plus cable TV for the glamping side of things.) There’s also wifi, a swimming pool, and several sports courts to keep everyone entertained.

Hidden Acres Campground

Hidden Acres is a lovely little campground tucked away in the middle of the woods, along the banks of a small river. There’s hiking available nearby, as well as river fishing. You’ll appreciate the full hookups, the general store to keep you stocked in RV goods, and Peggy’s Gathering Place, where you can enjoy snacks and ice cream. There are sites right on the riverfront, plus free cable available. There’s something here for everyone.

Mystic KOA

As with most Kampgrounds of America, Mystic KOA comes highly recommended by RV travelers. Located in Mystic, Connecticut, it offers you the loveliest parts of New England’s nature plus all of the modern amenities you could hope for on vacation. Most sites are pull-through and offer full hookups. There’s also catch-and-release fishing on site, bike rentals, mini-golf, two swimming pools, and even more to enjoy while you’re here.

Timber Creek RV Resort

Located in Westerly, Rhode Island, Timber Creek RV Resort gives you a nice, wooded camping area that’s close to a road for getting around easily. In addition to full hookups, there’s fishing, a swimming pool, and several sports courts all available for your recreation. You can also stay fresh and clean with laundry and shower facilities both on site. It’s a brief two miles from Misquamicut Beach, so you can be among the first to file in every day and stake your claim.

Places to Eat Near Misquamicut Beach, Rhode Island

As with most of coastal New England, you can expect one thing to be in abundance when you’re looking for places to eat: fresh seafood. From scallops to oysters to the catch of the day, delicious seafood is what they do here. Don’t worry if you’re not much for shellfish. You’ll find plenty of burger and pizza places as well, plus lots of other fare.

Dining at Misquamicut Beach

Fresh seafood is everywhere around Misquamicut Beach. From lobster rolls to raw bars, you’ll be able to get your fill of fish here. If that’s not your thing, you’ll find other food as well, like steaks and chicken at a few grilles around town. Otherwise, plan to bring a picnic to the beach with you. With your RV’s kitchen, you won’t have any problem putting together a fun, easy-to-eat meal.

Dining Outside of Misquamicut Beach

There are several small towns near Misquamicut Beach. Of course, there’s Westerly, Rhode Island, but if you’re staying farther out, you still won’t have trouble finding food. Mystic, Connecticut, for example, has lots of delicious dining available. Lots of waterfront dining on the Mystic River is available, with food including steaks and seafood, salad bars, English-style pubs, plus a few beer bar style pubs for when you’re craving a good brew after a long day in the sun at the beach.

There are so many quaint, New England towns near Misquamicut Beach. Each one offers its own flare. Go exploring, find something local to enjoy, and eat up. You most definitely won’t go hungry.