Westerly, Rhode Island is a popular vacation destination because of the sheer number of activities. This town with about 23,000 permanent residents enjoys a location on the shores of the Pawcatuck River and features numerous oceanfront beaches and salt ponds, too, ensuring there’s always something to do.
The town’s history is another reason to explore, as Westerly was settled by Colonists in 1661 and incorporated in 1669. Numerous historic buildings remain, providing the opportunity to learn not only about the town and state but the early days of the country, as well.
And, of course, like any vacation destination, Westerly has a fantastic dining scene and enough nightlife to keep you entertained after the sun goes down.
When planning a trip to Coastal Rhode Island, look at Westerly’s selection of vacation rentals. You won’t be disappointed by what you’ll find in this quintessential New England small town.
No units are available based on your search criteria.
*Estimated pricing displayed excludes taxes, fees and optional services.
Where to Stay
When scanning through the various vacation rentals in Westerly, RI, you’ll see that the small town has a few different villages and neighborhoods.
For example, Misquamicut is an oceanfront area that’s home to Misquamicut State Beach and Atlantic Beach Park. These two venues make Misquamicut the place to be in Westerly during the summer. Restaurants and bars line these beaches, too, so you won’t have to travel far after your day by the water.
Watch Hill is one of Westerly’s luxury areas, as it features oceanfront mansions, a famous beach club, and high-end shopping. You’ll also find exclusive beaches, the Flying Horse Carousel, and some great restaurants in the area. The great thing about Watch Hill is that the village is mostly walkable, which is good news because parking is a challenge.
Weekapaug is just east of Misquamicut and features exclusive beaches and some massive houses. This area is mostly residential, but you’ll find some scenic viewpoints, and you’re only minutes from the bustle of Atlantic Beach Park.
Avondale is a residential neighborhood sitting just north of Watch Hill. There are a few marinas and a farm that you can wander, but it’s a central, accessible location between Downtown Westerly, Watch Hill and Misquamicut.
Shelter Harbor is another residential neighborhood with shores on Quonochontaug (Quonnie) Pond, which is excellent for boating and quahogging. While this neighborhood was once a music colony it is now across Route 1 from Shelter Harbor Golf Course. Residents and guests of Shelter Harbor enjoy shuttle services that take them directly to their private barrier beach in Weekapaug.
Other small communities in Westerly include Dunn’s Corners, Mastuxet, Potter Hill, and Winnapaug.
Beaches and Outdoor Activities
As you look for ways to spend your days in Westerly, the beach will surely call your name. Fortunately, you’ll have a few options, each with different amenities and atmospheres.
Misquamicut State Beach is the largest public beach in Westerly and has a massive parking lot to accommodate lots of guests. The beach also has a playground, picnic tables, pavilions, bathhouses, a gift shop, and lifeguard towers. All of this comes together to make Misquamicut State Beach the place to be in Westerly in the summer.
On either side of Misquamicut State Beach sits several other private and public beaches. From Dunes Club Beach to Misquamicut Fire District beach there are numerous beach parking lots. Your cottage may come with a beach pass to one of these beaches.
These beaches sit on Atlantic Ave where you’ll also find mini-golf, go-karts, drive-in movies, an entertainment park, bars, and restaurants, making this a go-to spot on your vacation.
The final set of beaches are in Watch Hill. While the three main beaches are private, meaning they may not have lifeguards, they do offer public access with a fee. The Flying Horse Carousel is by these beaches, and there are numerous restaurants and shopping nearby, too.
If you struggle with the crowds during the day, may we suggest visiting the beach in the evenings. Often there are far less crowds and it’s still warm out. One of Westerly’s Town Beaches hosts twice weekly concerts on the beach in the evenings as well.
Winnapaug Pond and Quonochontaug Pond enjoy central positions in Westerly for those looking to do some boating, kayaking or jet skiing. Winnapaug Pond has a rental shop right on its shores, making it the most accessible.
For a hike along the water, the Napatree Point Conservation Area in Watch Hill is an excellent option. Stretching 1.3 miles it juts out into Little Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Be sure to check out the abandoned army fort at the end of the point.
North of Misquamicut, Dr. John Champlin Glacier Park is also suitable for hiking. This park sits in a residential area, so there’s a chance it might be close to your vacation rental if you choose one close to Misquamicut State Beach.
History and Culture
While you’ll likely want to spend much of your time in Westerly exploring the outdoors, some indoor activities might catch your interest when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
The Westerly Public Library and the adjacent Wilcox Park were established in the late 1800s to commemorate those who fought in the Civil War. You can explore both the library and the park and learn a bit about this area’s impressive history. Wilcox Park is a Victorian era strolling park. Bring a picnic and enjoy the scenery.
The Artist’s Cooperative Gallery of Westerly features local artists’ works, with numerous exhibits and shows taking place throughout the year. If you want to take a piece of local art home with you, this is the place to visit.
The Granite Theatre in Downtown Westerly offers Broadway-level shows in a historic and impressive Greek-Revival building. If you’re looking for something to do at night, taking in a performance at this venue is well worth your time.
There are concerts throughout the summer at Wilcox Park, with the highlight being Summer Pops by The Chorus of Westerly. The park will be packed for this free concert, as it’s one of the most anticipated events of the year. You can put a blanket down the night before to reserve a spot, which is highly recommended if you want to be close to the stage.
Bars and Restaurants
Of course, you’ll need to eat during your South County vacation, and Westerly has you covered.
For something a little upscale, the Bridge Restaurant and Ella’s Food & Drink are good options in the downtown area. When searching for a more relaxed meal, Two Little Fish beach shack in Misquamicut has excellent seafood.
When searching for a little atmosphere on the beach, The Andrea Seaside Restaurant and Beach Bar, Paddy’s Beach Club, and the Windjammer Surf Bar are fun, lively, and open day and night.
Once the sun goes down in Downtown Westerly, you can head for dinner, drinks, and music at The Knickerbocker Music Center, some local craft beer at Grey Sail Brewing, or a combination of the two at The Malted Barley.
No matter your taste, Westerly has a bar or restaurant for you.
Your Westerly, Rhode Island Vacation
When the time comes to visit Rhode Island, you’ll be glad that you’ve chosen a vacation rental in Westerly. No other community in South County offers the same amenities in such a compact area, and, as a bonus, you can head over the border to Connecticut in seconds.
Westerly is a historic community with tons of character, and once you make it your vacation destination, you’ll quickly see why visitors return year after year.
Vacation Rental Offices
Charlestown 4009 Old Post Road Charlestown, RI 02813 401-552-7856
Watch Hill 124 Bay Street Watch Hill, RI 02891 401-552-7848
S. Kingstown 235 Main Street South Kingstown, RI 02879 401-552-7844
Westerly 241 Post Road Westerly, RI 02891 401-552-7864