Most people think of the beaches when they think of Southern Rhode Island, but there’s a fair amount to see before you get to the beaches – historic villages, water views, and farms bring charm to this section of the state. 

One of the things I like about this part of Rhode Island are the opportunities to get to enjoy water views and walks without the crowds of the beaches. Here are a few options:

Calf Pasture Point Beach is easily accessible by bike along the Quonset Bike Path. The 1.5 mile bike ride or walk from the Marine Ave parking area to the beach is flat, quiet, and picturesque. The wide stretch of sand offers views of East Providence and Jamestown and is a nice place to set up camp for a quiet afternoon. 

Rocky Point State Park is a glimpse into Rhode Island’s recent past. From the late 1840s to 1995, Rocky Point housed an amusement park. Because Rhode Island is one of those places that holds onto its past (take a right where the Benny’s used to be), Rocky Point has become legendary in people’s stories of “remember when”. Remnants of the park are still visible on the grounds accompanied by plaques that show pictures of the area from history; the most recognizable structure is an arch from the 1964 World’s Fair that was moved here from Queens, NY.  It also offers large green spaces, a fishing pier, and a paved path for people to enjoy the area. 

The John H. Chafee Nature Preserve – better known as Rome Point – offers a 2.5 mile loop hike with some nice views of the water. In the winter, this is also the location of some seal spotting – though you’ll need to bring binoculars to see them basking on the large rock off the coast. They usually arrive around Thanksgiving and are gone by early April. Even when the seals are not around, it’s always nice to walk along the untouched coast line.

Goddard Memorial State Park in Warwick is home to a 9 hole golf course, 18 miles of bridle trails, stables, game fields, a small beach, and over 75 varieties of trees – including ones that produce massive leaves. Because of these amenities, this is a popular place for BBQs and family gatherings.  However, it’s easy to forget the crowds when you explore the network of hiking trails around the park. 

Wickford Village is a historic section (1709) of North Kingston. Set along the Wickford Harbor, the houses are former ship captain houses. The harbor is still active as a fishing port for oyster farmers and other local fisherman. To learn more about the Wickford’s maritime history check out the self-guided Wickford Walk .

The narrow streets are flanked with a large selection of local stores – from kitchen wares to art galleries, Wickford Village gives enough variety for a full afternoon of shopping.  They also host various festivals throughout the year – one of their more unique festivals is the Dancing Witches of Wickford.  Witches from all across the state don their best outfits to parade through the town to the beat of a practiced synchronized dance. 

Inland, the Kenyon Grist Mill is the oldest running production in the state. Since 1696, the mill has been grinding corn meal and flour on the same granite millstones for their famous Johnny Cakes Meal plus other mixes. The mill is open for tours on the weekends while their small retail store is open throughout the week.  

Just up the road is Peter Pots Pottery (try to say that 10 times fast). Set in an old Glen Rock Mill building along a small waterfall, the setting is charming in itself. Inside, they offer place settings for all types of plates, bowls, and other dining sets. They have classic colors that people come back for time and again, but are also adding to their collection every year.  I left with a cute cat piggy bank that makes me smile every time I see it.

Kinney Azalea Gardens are the loving creation of Kinney-Faella families. Set behind their house with only a few parking spots, the extensive 16 acre garden easily offers a quiet immersive experience. The Kinney family have a long history with botany – specifically azalea and rhododendron plants. Over the years the family has collected varieties from the south and created hybrids with their existing plants. Today, they have over 500 varieties of azaleas alone in their gardens. While I didn’t get to visit during the azalea season, the lush greenery and other flowering plants made this a lovely place to check out. Benches and covered areas allow guests to sit and take in the surroundings. and a Garden Treasure hunt inspires guests to explore the more secluded parts of the gardens.

Only open for about two weeks in early spring, the Wicked Tulips Farm in Exeter (one of three locations) is a rare treat.  Fields of colorful tulips greet the guests and make a beautiful backdrop for pictures. This is the largest U-pick tulip experience in New England, and the ticket price includes 10 tulip stems to take home some of the beauty.  Because of the limited time the farm is open, tickets are hard to get, so the whole thing is a special experience.