City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Charlestown, Rhode Island

Tucked along Rhode Island’s southern coast, Charlestown is a seaside gem where natural beauty and small-town charm come together perfectly. With pristine beaches, scenic trails and fascinating cultural sites, this quiet coastal town offers a refreshing escape from the bustle of city life.

Nicknamed C-Town, it’s near the Pawcatuck River and Block Island Sound. The coastal town of Narragansett is to the northeast. Keep reading to discover several attractions to keep you entertained while staying at private boat dock rentals in Rhode Island or nearby New England towns.

For those seeking a quiet day, Charlestown’s local shops, art galleries and farm stands offer a warm welcome and a taste of local life. Here are some fun attractions to check out from local marinas or a private boat lifts for rent

Charlestown Breachway

At the heart of Charlestown’s allure is Charlestown Breachway. This long stretch of soft sand is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boating, birdwatching and evening walks along the Atlantic Ocean. Relax with views of Block Island Sound and Charlestown Breachway State Park.

Connecting Ninigret Pond to the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a unique blend of saltwater and freshwater habitats that attract striped bass, bluefish and flounder. The adjacent state-operated campground provides waterfront sites perfect for RVs and tents as well as direct access to the beach and boat launch.

Ninigret Park

The 227-acre Ninigret Park offers sports fields, playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, bicycling courses and a swimming pond with a beach. Once part of a World War II naval airfield, the park hosts popular events such as the Charlestown Seafood Festival and summer concerts as well as exhibitions such as giant trolls and sand sculptures.

With its mix of scenic landscapes, family-friendly amenities and cultural gatherings, Ninigret Park is a vibrant destination for locals and visitors. Check it out if you’re ever in the need for a little recreation while anchored at a boat slip for rent near me or other private boat slip rentals.

Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center

History buffs can step back in time at the Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center, where stargazers gather for public viewing nights under some of the darkest skies in the region. Located within Ninigret Park, it’s a remarkable venue for public astronomy and science outreach. It hosts weekly stargazing nights as well as special events such as lunar-observation evenings and themed gatherings.

The site features a large dome telescope, open-field observation pads and an attached Science Center / Sky Theatre that presents talks and exhibits. Because of its rural setting and minimal light pollution, it’s considered one of the best spots in Rhode Island for night-sky viewing—including galaxies, nebulae and the Milky Way. 

Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge

At 858 acres, Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge invites visitors to explore salt ponds, birdwatching trails, coastal habitats and kayak routes teeming with wildlife. The refuge is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and offers some of the best sunsets in southern Rhode Island.

Established in 1970 on land formerly used as the Charlestown Naval Auxiliary Landing Field, the refuge preserves salt marshes, wooded swamps, freshwater ponds, early-succession shrublands and the shores of Ninigret Pond. More than 250 bird species have been recorded here, making it a premier destination for bird-watching and wildlife observation. 

Charlestown Historical Society’s General Stanton Inn

The General Stanton Inn, operated by the Charlestown Historical Society, dates back to 1667. One of the oldest inns in New England, it gives a glimpse into the area’s colonial past and maritime heritage. Originally serving travelers and tradesmen, the inn became a hub for local gatherings and historic events. Its classic New England architecture and period furnishings evoke a sense of centuries past in its exhibits, tours and community programs.

Whether you’re exploring the dunes, paddling the salt ponds or gazing at the stars, Charlestown captures the spirit of Rhode Island’s coastal beauty with its peaceful, inviting and endlessly captivating ambiance.