The Best Tourists Spots in Narragansett Bay

An estuary located on the north side of Rhode Island Sound, Narragansett Bay forms the largest estuary in New England. Its home to hundreds of animal species and act as a wide natural harbor in the state of Rhode Island, some of its islands even extend as far as Massachusetts. A total of 30 islands scattered all over the Bay including Conanicut Island, Prudence Island and Aquidneck Island as the three largest islands. 

Narragansett Bay history can be traced back in the time when two different Indian tribes used to inhabit the area, the Narragansett tribe occupied the west side of the bay while the Wampanoag Tribe reside on the east side near Cape Cod. Most people considered that the Italian voyager Giovanni da Verrazzano was the first non-native people who set foot on the island. He sailed his ship La Dauphine in 1524 in Narragansett Bay after visiting New York Bay. He first called the island as Refugio, meaning the "Refuge" as it has several docking areas paving the way for open forests where it is suitable for travel "even by a large army". 

Soon after the Adriaen Block, a Dutch navigator became curious about the place and mapped Narragansett Bay in 1614. In honor of his commitment and dedication of mapping the island in its entirety, locals named the Block Island after him. 

There are more to Narragansett Bay than meets the eye, as there are several tourists spot to go around with. Here are some of the top rated places to visit in Narragansett Bay. 

Point Judith Lighthouse 

This 51-foot historical lighthouse had seen it all and was even devastated by a memorable 1815 hurricane. Even to this day, it’s a functional lighthouse and an active Coast Guard base. They had had place a designated viewing area so visitors can see the magnificent view from the lighthouse. If you are a lighthouse lover, then this is the place you will surely love in Narragansett Bay. People who had been in the place would often recommend visiting the area during the wee hours of the morning and letting the beautiful sunrise greet you. Point Judith Lighthouse has a public access beach area perfect for kite flying, sunbathing, and swimming. 

Roger W Wheeler State Beach 

Located just miles of Galilee, Roger W Wheeler State Beach or more commonly known as the Sand Hill Cove is the most perfect place for families with small children. It’s far the cleanest beach in Narragansett Bay with tiny waves your little ones will surely love. The shallow water is perfect for beginner swimmers as it heats up faster and stays warmer for a long time. Even on the busiest days, Sand Hill Cove is a delight as they have restrooms equipped with shower rooms, playground, and a lot of concession stands. Most families love it for its sands as it has fewer rocks than most beaches and plenty of parking area. Never leave the beach without first seeing the amazing sunset in Sand Hill Cove. 

Theatre by the Sea 

After swimming in Narragansett Bay famous beaches, why not delight your other senses as well in watching one of the great shows in Theatre by the Sea. The theatre had entertained countless families over the course of 60 years with Broadway musicals and new plays like Annie and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats. Then enjoy the soft cool breeze after the show dining out in one of its famous restaurants.