Bad beach weather? No problem at Easton's Beach in Newport, RI

by Eric H.  -- Photos from top to bottom: Easton's Beach on a misty day; the carousel; and the aquarium (photos by Eric H.)

Posted. 6/28/05, updated 6/06/09

When the weather is ideal, Easton's Beach is a lot of fun. When the weather is bad, Easton's Beach is still a lot of fun.

On a recent trip to the colorful Rhode Island vacation destination, Newport, RI, we found the weather to be dismal, with mist, fog and uncharacteristically cool temperatures. Swimming was out. When that happens, what is there to do at a beach?

Easton's, a long stretch of free public beach (not including parking and individual attractions fees) solves that problem with a beautiful carousel for the kids to ride and a 24-ft. high water slide. Easton's also showcases the Save The Bay Exploration Center and Aquarium -- an interactive marine science learning center that offers educational programs and activities, more than 13 tanks and exhibits, and over 150 species of animals calling the Narragansett Bay their home. You'll also find a snack bar featuring lobster rolls, Tuesday night concerts (beginning July 6th), Wednesday Beach Idol Karaoke Night for kids 12 and under, and Thursday activities featuring children's entertainment including singers, jugglers, and magic. 

But wait, that's not all! Easton's also has a playground and skate park, a beach store with sales and rentals of beach merchandise delicious, and Rhode-Island-based Del's Lemonade. It's quite rare to find an ocean beach with this much to do, other than swimming, sunning and building sandcastles.  Of course, such a developed beach like Easton's offers restrooms and indoor and outdoor showers, along with parking (there is a small fee).

The carousel and aquarium especially give Easton's Beach an extra dimension. Much like drive-in movie theaters, carousels seem to be a dying breed in New England. It's a lifesaver for families who need an alternative to the beach, good weather or not. The aquarium packs a lot of sea inhabitants in a small space, including flounder, skates, blue lobsters, sea urchins, cat shark and starfish. The young staff is extremely knowledgeable and articulate.

When the weather cooperates, the variety of things to do at Easton's Beach makes the beach that much better. Easton's Beach sports a great stretch of sandy Atlantic Ocean beach, just minutes from wonderful Newport attractions like a dramatic and scenic cliff walk (visible from Easton's Beach), mansions( including the amazing Belcourt Castle), the Tennis Hall of Fame and a growing district of wonderful shops and restaurants.

Easton's Beach, as a beach, will certainly satisfy those wanting to experience a fine Rhode Island beach. As an overall Rhode Island vacation and travel spot, it is unbeatable with its fun options for the whole family.

For more information on Easton's Beach, visit the City of Newport, RI, Web Site., or contact them through a seasonal (Memorial Day through Labor Day) number, (401) 845-5810, or call the Parks and Recreation office at (401) 845-5800.

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