For being the smallest state in the country, Rhode Island sure does have plenty to offer its locals and visitors. In terms of beaches, this tiny state has many options, and the location a beachgoer chooses depends heavily on the activities they're planning on doing when they're there. From surfing to hiking, this shoreline is home to everything a person could want from a beach day. So, if touring the country's smallest state via coastline is on your summer to-do list, these are the best beaches - and beach activities - for what you.

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Goosewing Beach: Secluded Shoreline Fun

Visitors will be happy to know that Goosewing Beach is an extension of Goosewing Beach Preserve which means there's a full 75 acres to explore. Being part of a nature preserve means that this beach is fairly secluded, meaning remote privacy for those who don't mind going a bit off the grid. This beach offers a semi-rocky cliffside that's great for exploring, seeking out tide pools, or just soaking up the rays on a sunny day. This shouldn't be confused with the beach that sits at the other end of it, though - while South Shore can get pretty crowded, Goosewing Beach is a ten-minute walk away and is usually quite barren.

Getting There

It's a bit of a hike to reach Goosewing Beach but the payoff is well worth having access to a beach that feels like it's all your own. After parking in the South Shore Beach parking lot, the hike to the opposite end of the shoreline begins. Visitors can walk all the way to the end of South Shore, and they'll come upon a stream that separates the two beaches. After crossing this stream, they'll be able to find the path that leads to Goosewing Beach and all of its remote glory.

Narragansett Town Beach: Ideal For Surfing

Narragansett Town Beach is great for the early risers since surfing there requires a bit of an early wake-up call to take advantage of. The downside of this beach, according to Lonely Planet is that this beach is not only the most crowded in Rhode Island, but it's the most crowded in New England, in general. Therefore, the crowds will definitely be there on the nicest days regardless of whether it's a weekday or a weekend. Despite this, the early bird does have the advantage, and it's a great spot for beginner surfers with a pretty consistent four-foot-swell.

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Getting There

There are no rules or directions for getting to Narragansett Town Beach but getting there early is important in regard to parking, as well. The parking lot can fill up fairly quickly and, while it's not a bad walk to get to the beach from town, it's convenient to pull right up to the dunes. Additionally, a beach day isn't complete without a walk around town - and Narragansett has some of the best shops around, as well as restaurants.

Mohegan Bluffs: History Lovers Who Appreciate Views

Mohegan Bluffs is entirely different from the other beaches in New England and along the East Coast (with the exception of Maine) due to its high, rocky bluffs and cliffside. While it's not the most ideal for anyone who's looking for the super-soft sands of Goosewing or the great waves found at Narragansett, it's perfect for anyone looking for a view. A bit of adventure spirit is needed when taking to the Bluffs, as well, since a bit of work goes into reaching its most scenic vantage points. At the edge of the Bluffs, visitors will find Southeast Lighthouse, which is a historic landmark. The Bluffs themselves sit at a height of 150 feet, so the views off the coast are pretty dramatic.

Getting There

Those heading to Mohegan Bluffs will find Southeast Lighthouse just before they get to the Bluffs and getting there is pretty easy. The entrance to the lighthouse is right off Spring Street, and visitors will also find Southeast Light Delights, a food truck that sets up shop right at the entrance of the trail to the lighthouse. Serving up delicious seafood, this is a great spot to grab a bite before hitting the trail or on the way back from enjoying the beach. Speaking of which, to get to the actual beach part of the Bluffs (because one does exist), beachgoers will need to follow the 130 or so stairs that lead down to the bottom. It's not necessarily a trek that bodes well for those with a ton of bags to carry, but it's nice and secluded for minimalists with a towel and some bottled water.

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