It’s September, and Newport’s a completely different kind of beach town. The crowded shoreline has dwindled to a few striped umbrellas, but the sun shines on. The result? Blue-sky beach days and a Caribbean-warm salty sea until October.
Well. . .maybe Caribbean waters are a bit of a stretch, but September beach days in Newport are pretty darn exquisite! It’s the perfect season to sneak in one last beach getaway, and we’ll give you four reasons why:
1. Second Beach (or Sachuest Beach if you must be proper) is a mile-long stretch of clean golden sand with a picturesque backdrop of rolling hills and jagged puddingstone boulders. Breezy days beckon windsurfing or kite flying, and, when the surf’s up, a world-recognized beach break. It’ll always be our #1.
2. No noise, no bustle, just the sound of the rolling tide makes Third Beach ideal for a long afternoon of lounging. A quiet inlet home to a handful of local moored sailboats, Third Beach offers calm waters for small children to play or enough peace and quiet to enjoy all by yourself.
3. First Beach is where the action is. Keep the kids entertained amid the waves or along the boardwalk with Easton Beach’s old-time carousel, plates of lobster rolls, and “Save the Bay” marine exploration center. Adult fun can be found on the east end at Atlantic Beach Club, where beach volleyball, live music, and “Astro Bombs” reign on weekends (think of your favorite childhood popsicle, but – um -better).
4. If you come for the sand and the salt, but not to take it home with you, Gooseberry Beach is your answer. This peaceful cove is perfect for families seeking relaxation and convenience. This sandy stretch along the infamous Ocean Drive offers a small beach cafe, chair rentals, and changing rooms and showers to clean up before the drive home.
And remember — the Attwater has all of your beach-going needs – chairs, bags and towels!