Spending your day at East Matunuck State Beach in Rhode Island can feel like the epitome of a relaxing summer day. Beach days offer respite from the city and the rush of life. But why should you spend your day at this specific beach? Read on to learn more about beach life, historical facts, and places to stay when visiting East Matunuck State Beach.
About East Matunuck State Beach
East Matunuck State Beach is a great place to visit for some great history and Rhode Island fun. The beach lies near the well-known coastal town of Narragansett and is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful views.
It has a long history, dating back to the early 1800s when people first used it as a summer resort. And before that, it was a village full of farmers and textile workers. Today, East Matunuck State Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals. The beach offers various activities, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and picnicking.
Location
East Matunuck State Beach lies in the south-central Rhode Island coastal community of South Kingstown on the Atlantic Ocean, a mere nine miles southwest of Narragansett. The beach sits on 950 Succotash Rd and is a great place to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf that seems to surround you all on sides.
History
East Matunuck State Beach is a beloved Rhode Island destination with a long and interesting history. It started as small farming settlements from the Pettaquamscutt Purchase in the 17th century.
In the 19th century, the communities transitioned from farming into mills and textile villages due to the fast-flowing interior water routes in the region. It wasn’t until the 19th century that play and leisure became part of this area’s lifestyle.
A hotel near the coast was built, accommodating around 125 guests. From there, summer houses popped up on the hills known as Matunuck Hills. Small tent colonies and seaside cottages also arose but were continually damaged in coastal storms and hurricanes.
In the 1950s, the state began purchasing these storm-ravaged lands, and in the late 60s, the state built a modern beach facility. It officially became East Matunuck State Beach. Today, that modern beach facility is only one of the many amenities.
Amenities
You can enjoy the outdoors with plenty of amenities to make your experience more comfortable. The beach pavilion has public restrooms, outdoor showers, and indoor heated showers for when you need to rinse off after a swim.
The beach is also wheelchair accessible, with a large parking lot and food and gift concessions. For those looking for a more eco-friendly experience, you can use the composting toilets and electric vehicle charging stations.
And, of course, no trip to the beach would be complete without shade gazebos to keep you cool and protected when you need a break from the sun and sand. It even has manned lifeguard towers during the high season, keeping your loved ones safe and sound while having a great time playing on the Atlantic coast.
Is Matunuck Beach Dog-Friendly?
Unfortunately, you can’t bring your dog to Matunuck Beach. This helps keep the beach free of unwanted dog waste and allows people to explore without fearing pets.
Not everyone is a pet lover. This may seem a bit unfair. However, you can have a picnic on the sand without worrying about dogs running up and stealing your meal.
How Much Is Parking at East Matunuck State Beach?
East Matunuck State Beach is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Gates close at sunset. Some seasonal dates require entrance fees to access all the amenities, which generally extends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, every day of the week.
Parking fees for East Matunuck State Beach and most other Rhode Island state beaches are as follows. The Resident Season Pass costs $30. Daily weekday fees cost $6 and weekends and holidays are $7. The Non-Resident Season Pass costs $60, or you can opt for the $12 weekday pass. Weekends and holidays cost $14.
You can purchase your season passes online with discounts available for seniors and accessible needs. A season pass allows access to all of Rhode Island’s eight state beaches.
What Is There to Do at East Matunuck State Beach?
Paying a fee to access a beach might seem like a drawback for you, but it is worth every penny at this Rhode Island beach. With all of the amenities listed above and all you can do here, you may see why it’s worth it.
Take a dip in the ocean, or relax on the sand. If you feel adventurous, go for a swim. You can also picnic on the beach or go fishing (off-hours only).
And when you get hungry, visit Salty’s Burgers & Seafood for burgers, fries, lobster rolls, and even breakfast burritos and sandwiches. And, of course, there’s ice cream.
If you forgot your beach toys, don’t worry; you can purchase some at the concession stand. So whether you want to play in the water or sand, East Matunuck State Beach is the place to be.
Traveler’s Tip: Soak up the sun in one of these 10 Best Rhode Island Beach Towns.
Where to Stay Near East Matunuck State Beach
A beach visit isn’t complete without a place to stay. And whether you want luxury, casual, or just a simple campground, the areas surrounding East Matunuck State Beach have various options. You can’t camp directly on the beach, but you can stay at one of the following nearby places.
The Break Hotel
Address: 1208 Ocean Rd., Narragansett, RI
About: Calling themselves an ultra-chic beach house, The Break Hotel provides a getaway from the hustle and bustle of life. With only 16 rooms, you’ll feel cared for in every detail. Its turquoise color theme gives you a chill vibe, and its unique characteristics will make you feel like living in the lap of luxury.
Amenities: The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with all the amenities you could need. The saltwater pool is perfect for a refreshing dip, and the peloton bike is great for a workout. It even has complimentary backpack beach chairs and bikes, so you can enjoy the beach without having to lug around all your gear.
The heated bathroom floors are a nice touch, and the fireplaces in every room add some class. The rooftop lounge and restaurant are the perfect places to relax after a long day. Or visit the spa to unwind with a massage or facial. If you want a luxurious getaway or a relaxing weekend, this is the hotel for you.
Admiral Dewey Inn
Address: 668 Matunuck Beach Rd., South Kingstown, RI
About: Life can’t get much better than at this spot located just up the road from the state beach. The Admiral Dewey Inn is a quaint small-town hotel with New England charm. It has intimate rooms spread throughout its three floors and a loft making for a cozy stay.
Amenities: You can choose from queen to king-size beds and shared bathrooms to private bathrooms. Rooms are available for one to six people. Plus, you can opt for the ocean view rooms.
And if you want simple luxury, the loft has it all: room for six with a breakfast nook, living area, and private bathroom. And of course, the best view of the ocean.
Fishermen’s Memorial State Park and Campground
Address: Route 108, 1011 Point Judith Rd., Narragansett, RI
About: If you prefer to camp instead of a hotel, look no further than the campground in Fishermen’s Memorial State Park.
The state park sits on 91 acres on Point Judith in the town of Narragansett, giving you easy access to East Matunuck State Beach. The state park is part of the former Fort Nathaniel Greene, named after Rhode Island native and Revolutionary War general Nathaniel Greene.
Amenities: Fishermen’s Memorial State Park and Campground is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The “seaside village” atmosphere is complete with lush grass, tree-lined paths, and plenty of places to park your RV or pitch a tent.
Stay active at the basketball and tennis courts. It also has clean bathrooms and showers. The full hookups are perfect for RVs if you want a little more luxury.
And, of course, no trip to Fishermen’s State Park would be complete without spending some time swimming or fishing in the beautiful waters.
Is East Matunuck State Beach Worth Visiting?
If you want a great place to spend a sunny summer day, consider East Matunuck State Beach. It is a convenient location near Narragansett, providing all of the history and fun that comes with being in Rhode Island.
And with plenty of amenities like concession stands, indoor heated showers, and beach toys, it’s hard to beat this spot on the Atlantic coast.
Add in some gorgeous weather and ample opportunity for relaxing on the sand or swimming in the waves, and you have a recipe for an unforgettable summer experience.
Have you visited East Matunuck State Beach? What did you think?
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