A Coastal State of Mind

Adventures and natural beauty await in historic Newport, Rhode Island
Samantha Johnson

Nestled between Rhode Island and Massachusetts on beautiful Aquidneck Island is the coastal hamlet of Newport, Rhode Island. Home to award-winning hotels, Gilded Age architecture and miles of beaches, Newport is the ultimate destination for any excursion, from a couple’s weekend to a family vacation. Time spent on the coast should be full of historical encounters and time on the water, complemented by delicious local cuisine—which is exactly what Newport has in store.

Founded in 1639, Newport is older than the United States itself. The Colonial Era saw Newport as a bustling port city, while the Gilded Age saw a thriving artists’ colony. The influence of both persists in the city today, with beautiful architecture and The Newport Historic District—which contains the highest concentration of Colonial homes in the nation. To learn more about the history of the area, a visit to The Blue Garden, Bowen’s Wharf and the Redwood Library & Athenaeum are a necessity.

The Blue Garden has been a Newport staple since 1908, when it was designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., whose original plans still reside in the garden. Nowadays the garden is filled with brilliant blue pools, a beautifully re-created south pergola, lawn paths framed by evergreen trees and an overflowing assortment of plants. Experience Newport culture while on the water at Bowen’s Wharf. Referred to as “The Anchor of Newport,” visitors can shop streets of boutiques, indulge at top restaurants and take in nightlife like a local. Step into a piece of history at the Redwood Library & Athenaeum. The subscription library, research center and rare book repository was founded in 1747 and is known as one of the leading cultural institutions in southern New England.

With more than 100 oceanfront beaches and 400 miles of coastline, it’s no wonder Rhode Island is nicknamed “The Ocean State.” Start with a trip to Easton Beach, just a short walk from Newport’s downtown. If you prefer to hang loose on your surfboard, Morgan’s Bluff, Sachuest Beach and Vaill Beach are unbeatable spots to catch a wave or two. Don’t worry—if you don’t have a board of your own, you can easily rent one from a local surf shop. For swimming or family time, there are also beaches with picnic areas and playgrounds.

Conimicut Point Beach (including Conimicut Point Lighthouse), Oakland Beach and Colt State Park on Narragansett Bay are beautiful, fun daytrip options. Newport’s famous Cliff Walk beckons with a 3.5-mile trail complete with panoramic views of the ocean, the sound of crashing waves in the background and a refreshing sea breeze to melt your worries away. Cliff Walk is free to the public and takes visitors past can’t-miss sights, such as extravagant mansions like The Breakers and Ochre Court, as well as Salve Regina University—a Roman Catholic school housed in multiple Gilded Age buildings. If weather doesn’t permit a walk—or if you prefer to relax while taking in the sights— try the 10-mile Ocean Drive along Newport’s coast.

For renowned seafood, head to Blount Clam Shack for a signature Lobster Roll or Clarke Cooke House for freshly shucked oysters from the raw bar (the restaurant overlooks the harbor for dinner with a view). Local favorite Scales and Shells has been around for more than 30 years and specializes in Italian seafood dishes that are sure to satisfy. The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn is the optimal spot for alfresco dining and drinks on a warm day. When weather permits, guests can stop by the Adirondack Bar or Terrace Bar and relax with unobstructed views of Narragansett Bay.

Trolley tours, art shows, luxury hotels and resorts, wineries, breweries and festivals are just a few of the other unique finds in Newport. The true magic in taking a trip to the seaside city is experiencing the coastal life for yourself.