Are you looking to expand your summer wardrobe, explore some of Rhode Island’s favorite waterfront dining spots, and spend a day on the beach soaking in the salty air? As a Rhody Ram and resident of Rhode Island my entire life, I have explored the finest restaurants, charming villages, unique cafes, private beaches, and bustling shopping spots. 

All of my summers consist of pool and beach days, enjoying smoothie and acai bowls, trying new ice cream shops, and attending country concerts. What I love most about summertime in Rhode Island is taking mini-day trips to Block Island, Newport, Providence, Narragansett, Bristol, Wickford, Jamestown, and more!

Along with popular spots in the Narragansett area, don’t forget to stop by campus! URI is another destination to explore. With the historic stone buildings, picturesque quad, botanical gardens, and shops in the emporium open all summer, there is plenty to see! Check out URI’s Top Spots. Now, let’s dive into more places you can add to your bucket list and check off this summer! 

Local Beaches

Whether you enjoy tanning, diving under waves, having a picnic and relaxing, or taking a jog, the beach is such a peaceful place to be. Last summer, my family and I would do sunset dinners at Narragansett Town Beach. We would bring a folding table and chairs, and enjoy Gansett Wraps as the waves would crash in and the sky was cotton candy. Scarborough State Beach is another option. Both beaches are near many shops and restaurants. A few of my favorites are Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House, Brickley’s, Gansett Wraps, Baja’s  Spain, The Coast Guard House, and T’s. Whether you are looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner options, there is something for everyone. 

In Westerly, there is Misquamicut State Beach which is a 10-minute drive from downtown shops, restaurants, a carousel, and more. One of my favorite parts of Misquamicut is the playground on the beach. I remember as a child going there with my family. The next destination is Block Island. Two of my favorite beaches to visit are Mohegan Bluffs and Ballard’s Beach. Mohegan Bluffs is a great place to take pictures, with 141 steps leading down to the beach. On the other side of the island, you will find Ballard’s with live music, a bar, and a restaurant right on the beach, which is a walkable distance from a strip of shops. From the high-speed ferry to biking around the island, and the clear blue water, there is so much to love!

Local Restaurants 

Finding good food and ice cream after a full day at the beach is essential! Whether you are looking for a sit-down or on-the-go meal, you will find it all. Our first place is Mews Tavern Bar & Grill. The tavern is in Wakefield right near Brickley’s Ice Cream which is one of my favorite ice cream spots. This restaurant offers a wide variety of pub food, such as burgers, salads, soups, sandwiches, pizza, mac and cheese, and more. My favorite is their classic cheese pizza. The restaurant is unique as there is a huge painted tree in the middle of the sitting area, which extends up to the windows on the ceiling. Our next restaurant is Matunuck Oyster Bar, offering outdoor and indoor seating, right on the water. From fresh seafood to sushi, clam chowder, salads, sandwiches, and vegetarian options, the menu is endless. If you like to get dressed up with your friends, this is the place for you! 

Next, we have Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House. Iggy’s is perfect after a long beach day when you just want to enjoy your clam chowder and clam cakes on the ride home. Iggy’s is right in Narragansett, just a short drive away from the beaches. Their famous doughboys are something you have to try if you haven’t done so yet! 

Next, we have Ocean Mist located in Wakefield. If you are looking to head to a beach bar, this is the place to go. The bar serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. They also offer many weekly events, such as bingo, meal specials, live music, line dancing, and more. To switch up the atmosphere, if you are looking for a fancy sit-down meal, head over to Spain in Narragansett. From their dinner, dessert, cocktail, and wine menu, there is so much to offer! For a sandwich on the go, head over to Gansett Wraps. They serve salads and soups, but mostly a variety of wraps! Order some wraps, and take it to go for a picnic on the beach. Lastly for more fine dining, check out The Coast Guard House in Narragansett. The waterfront view is Narragansett Beach, which is a walk away. The menu is priced similarly to Spain. Not only do I go out to eat for good food, but also for the atmosphere. With outdoor heaters, string lights, and the ocean, it is the experience that makes going out to eat worthwhile. 

Local Cafes

When it comes to coffee, I am always exploring new places to taste-test different coffee flavors! Especially during the school year, driving to a cafe where I can study and focus, while also enjoying a warm latte is something I love to do after a long day of classes. Whether you are a coffee or tea lover, there is something so exciting about trying a new place! The first cafe I would recommend is TLC Coffee, located in West Kingston. From 21 iced coffee flavors to 25 hot tea flavors, there is so much to try. One of my personal favorites is their strawberry banana smoothie. On a humid day, a smoothie is my go-to. From their baked goods to salads and sandwiches, take a ride down and explore their options! The next place is Cool Beans Cafe, located in Narragansett. My friends and I love to go here in the summertime, as their acai bowls are the best! Lastly, check out Providence Bagel located in Kingston in the emporium, Providence, Mansfield, or Attleboro. From their different bagel flavors to their cream cheese spreads, it is a delicious place. 

Local Ice Cream Shops

If you are an ice cream lover like me, it is time to check out Brickley’s Homemade Ice Cream in Narragansett. I live at Brickley’s all summer long. Their ice cream is one-of-a-kind. My favorite scent is when you first walk into an ice cream shop. All you can smell is the flavors of ice cream. I love their bubblegum and root beer floats. From cups to waffle cones and sundaes, they serve it all. My next recommendation is Clementine’s Homemade Ice Cream in East Greenwich. They offer frozen yogurt, no-sugar-added ice cream, and non-dairy options as well.

Now that we have covered some of Rhode Island’s best spots, I hope you get a chance to taste-test some places and try something new! Whether you are from Rhode Island or a URI student, these nearby food stops are great for exploring throughout the summer and school year. Whether you are looking to take your friends out to eat, study for an exam, or simply unwind, taking time for yourself this summer is important for making memories and relaxing. As part of Campus Recreation, we hope this summer you can Be Active. Be Well, and Belong!