10 Fun Things To Do Near Narragansett Pier, Rhode Island
If you’re dreaming about salty air, fresh seafood, and classic New England charm,
Narragansett Pier, Rhode Island is a great place to start. This cozy oceanside village in Washington County (often called South County by locals) is small, but the adventures around it are anything but.
Whether you’re planning a family trip, a couples’ getaway, or a solo escape, here are
10 fun things to do near Narragansett Pier that will make you want to come back every summer.
1. Relax on Narragansett Town Beach
Let’s start with the obvious: the
beach
Soft sand that’s easy on bare feet
Clean, rolling waves perfect for body surfing
Plenty of room to spread out a towel or set up a beach chair
You’ll pay a small fee to get on the beach in summer, but you get access to restrooms, changing rooms, and snack stands. On a warm July afternoon, it feels like something out of a New England postcard—kids building sandcastles, surfers in the waves, and the sound of seagulls overhead.
Tip: Arrive early on weekends. Parking lots fill up fast by late morning.
2. Walk Under The Towers in Narragansett Pier
If you’ve ever seen photos of Narragansett, you’ve probably seen The Towers—the stone arch that stretches over Ocean Road.
These historic towers are the last remaining part of the old Narragansett Pier Casino from the 1800s. Today, they’re used for events and weddings, but you can still walk underneath and along the seawall right beside them.
Why stop here?
- It’s one of the most iconic photo spots in Rhode Island.
- Ocean views are wide open and stunning, especially at sunset.
- There are benches where you can sit and watch the waves crash against the rocks.
On my first visit, I sat on a bench by The Towers for nearly an hour, just listening to the surf and people-watching. It’s a simple thing, but it might end up being one of your favorite memories.
3. Explore Scarborough State Beach
Just a short drive south from Narragansett Pier, you’ll find Scarborough State Beach, one of the biggest and busiest beaches in Washington County.
If Narragansett Town Beach is “classic,” Scarborough is “wide open.”
- Long stretch of sand, great for walking or jogging
- Consistent waves that attract boogie boarders and body surfers
- Picnic areas and pavilions
Families love Scarborough because there’s plenty of space and the waves are fun but usually manageable. On a clear day, you can even see out toward Block Island on the horizon.
Parking is in a large state lot, and there’s a fee during the summer season. If you’re planning a full day at the ocean near Narragansett Pier, this is a top choice.
4. Take the Ferry to Block Island from Nearby Port of Galilee
Looking for a little adventure beyond the mainland?
Head over to the Port of Galilee in Narragansett (about a 10–15 minute drive from Narragansett Pier) and catch the ferry to Block Island.
The ferry ride takes about an hour on the traditional boat and roughly half that on the high-speed option. Along the way, you’ll see lighthouses, fishing boats, and maybe even a few seabirds following in your wake.
Once you reach Block Island, you can:
- Rent bikes or mopeds
- Visit the Mohegan Bluffs for jaw-dropping ocean views
- Explore small shops, cafes, and local ice cream spots
If you’re staying in Narragansett for a few days, a Block Island day trip is one of the best nearby experiences you can have.
5. Discover Point Judith Lighthouse
Just down the road from Narragansett Pier is Point Judith, a working fishing village and home to the Point Judith Lighthouse, one of Rhode Island’s classic beacons.
You can’t go inside the lighthouse itself (it’s on Coast Guard property), but you can walk around the public area nearby.
Expect:
- Rugged, rocky shorelines instead of sandy beach
- Powerful waves crashing onto the rocks
- Wide-angle views of the Atlantic Ocean
It’s a peaceful place, especially in the evening when the light is softer and the crowds thin out. Bring a light jacket, even in summer—the wind along this part of the coast can surprise you.
6. Enjoy Fresh Seafood in Narragansett & Galilee
You can’t talk about things to do near Narragansett Pier without mentioning the seafood.
This part of Rhode Island is known for its fishing industry, so the seafood is about as fresh as it gets. In and around Narragansett Pier—and especially down in Galilee—you’ll find:
- Lobster rolls, served hot with butter or cold with mayo
- Clam cakes and chowder (Rhode Island style is clear, not creamy!)
- Fried whole-belly clams and crispy fish and chips
Some spots are casual shacks with picnic tables and paper plates, while others are sit-down restaurants with ocean views.
If you love food, plan at least one meal built around local seafood. It’s part of the whole Narragansett experience.
7. Stroll or Bike Along Ocean Road
Sometimes the best thing to do isn’t a “big attraction” at all—it’s just taking a slow walk.
Ocean Road runs along the water near Narragansett Pier and offers some of the prettiest scenery in the area. You’ll see:
- Stone walls and historic homes
- Views of the rocky shoreline and open water
- The Towers in one direction and more coastal scenery in the other
You can walk small sections or ride a bike along parts of it (just stay aware of traffic in busy summer months).
If you like simple, low-key things to do near Narragansett Pier, this is perfect for early morning or just before sunset, when the light hits the water and everything glows a bit.
8. Visit South County Museum
Right in Narragansett, not far from the Pier, you’ll find the South County Museum, tucked into a park-like setting.
This is a great option if:
- You want a break from the sun on a hot afternoon
- You’re traveling with kids who like hands-on experiences
- You enjoy local history and old-time New England stories
The museum focuses on rural and coastal life in South County. You might see:
- Historic farm buildings
- Antique tools and machinery
- Exhibits about fishing, farming, and early Rhode Island life
It’s not a huge, overwhelming museum. Instead, it feels personal and relaxed—like stepping back into a quieter time.
9. Day Trip to Newport, Rhode Island
If you’re staying in Narragansett Pier for more than a day or two, consider a short day trip to Newport, about 30–40 minutes away by car.
Newport is famous for its Gilded Age mansions, historic harbor, and the scenic Cliff Walk. It’s a different vibe than Narragansett—busier, more historic, and packed with things to see.
In one afternoon you might:
- Tour one of the mansions like The Breakers or Marble House
- Walk part of the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk along the rocky shoreline
- Grab a drink or meal by the waterfront downtown
Then you can head back to Narragansett Pier in the evening for a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere.
10. Watch the Sunset from the Seawall
Let’s end with something simple and free.
Right near Narragansett Pier and The Towers, you’ll find a seawall with a sidewalk along the water. As the sun drops lower in the sky, this area becomes one of the best spots in town.
People stop to:
- Take photos of the sky turning orange and pink
- Listen to the waves and the distant calls of seabirds
- Enjoy an ice cream cone or a coffee from nearby shops
Honestly, you don’t have to “do” much here at all. Just stand, breathe in the salty air, and watch the day fade. It’s a perfect way to wrap up your time in Narragansett Pier.
Planning Your Trip to Narragansett Pier
To make the most of your visit to Narragansett Pier, Rhode Island and the rest of Washington County, keep these quick tips in mind:
- Best time to visit: Late June through early September for warm beach days.
- Shoulder seasons: May, early June, and September offer fewer crowds but cooler water.
- Getting around: A car makes it easier to reach beaches, lighthouses, and nearby towns.
- What to pack: Beach gear, a light jacket for evenings, and comfy shoes for walking.
Narragansett Pier may look small on the map, but between the beaches, seafood, history, and nearby day trips, there’s enough to keep you busy for a long weekend or more.
What Would You Add?
Have you been to Narragansett Pier or anywhere else in South County, Rhode Island?
- Do you have a favorite beach or seafood shack?
- Did you discover a hidden spot that most visitors miss?
Share your tips and stories in the comments—they might help someone else plan their own Narragansett getaway.
And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend or on social media. You never know who might be looking for their next oceanfront escape!
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