They say good things come in small packages, and the state of Rhode Island certainly fits into this phrase perfectly -- especially when it comes to surfing.
Located in southern New England, the “Ocean State” is only 37 miles wide and 48 miles long, but has a coastline that spans over 400 miles. Confused with that math?
Us too!
Nevertheless, Rhode Island’s shores, bays, and large inlets make up about 14% of its territory. Bordered by the North Atlantic Ocean, RI has so many destinations up and down the coast for surfers to explore no matter what skill level or the time of year.
Just be ready to suit up; even in the summertime the water here doesn’t get any warmer than “pretty chilly”.
Photo Meghan Gallary
Rhode Island Surf Guide
Rhode Island Surf Culture
Rhode Island surf culture began prospering in the 1950s, an entire decade before the sport’s big boom throughout the nation in the 60s.
Once rivaled by Massachusetts’ big three -- Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket -- Rhode Island is now recognized as the #1 surf state in New England, ever since the great white population claimed Massachusetts as their annual summer feeding spot.
Waves in Rhode Island
It can be argued though that RI didn’t need any help from the sharks to gain this title, as the waves here speak for themselves.
There are beach breaks, slabs, and point breaks to be found for all surfers depending on the forecast.
Like anywhere in the Northeast, Rhode Island waves are super heavy -- even the little ones.
This in combination with its infamously rocky ocean floor can make for some powerful, long-rolling rides.
By the same token, if you’re still new to the sport, this means you’ll want to be extra cautious and paddle out with an experienced guide.
Photo Meghan Gallary
Gear Needed to Surf in Rhode Island
What you’ll want to pack for your Rhode Island surf trip will vary throughout the year.
The best waves start in the fall, and become a bit less reliable as the seasons pass.
So unfortunately, you probably won’t find the best waves when the ocean here is at its highest temps.
So get ready to bundle!
This region of the North Atlantic can get down to 38°F come February, and tends to stay below 60°F until late June. It’s very likely you’ll be wanting a thick full suit, and we recommend also taking booties, a hood, and gloves if you visit anytime between October - May.
With warm gear it’s always better to pack and not need than not pack and wish you did.
If you’re looking for fun, ankle-biter mushy waves, a longboard will be your friend, but if you’re trying to work on top-to-bottom surfing, airs, or just want to ride taller sets, a smaller performance board is the way to go.
Top 5 Surf Spots in Rhode Island
Monahan’s Dock -- Narragansett
Monahan’s Dock is actually recognized in RI as a fishing pier before it is a surf spot.
So when visiting, you’ll want to make sure you don’t get in the way of any locals waiting for a bite.
Waves here are known to be some of the heaviest in all of New England, but their power makes for speedy A-frames, with hollow rights and soft lefts. Both provide lots of possibilities for barrels.
Due to the strength of the break and the crowdedness of Monahan’s, this spot is no place for beginners, but thrilling for advanced surfers.
Point Judith -- Narragansett
Due to its peninsula-like shape, Point Judith has waves breaking from three different directions, all pointing towards the infamous lighthouse. The spot is incredibly scenic, and the waves are similar to the ones you’ll find at Monahan’s -- heavy, fast, and exciting for high-level surfers. Because this break forms over a jagged bottom, and the slippery rock entryway, Point Judith is another place we wouldn’t recommend for beginners.
Misquamicut -- Westerly
Misquamicut State Beach is the southernmost surf spot in Rhode Island, and one that new surfers and experts alike can all enjoy. Waves are heavy year round, but in the summertime their height and speed are friendly enough for those trying to learn the basics of surfing. Come late fall and winter, Misquamicut has so much to offer pro-level athletes, as the break can get far overhead, especially at low tide.
Matunuck -- South Kingstown
Matunuck is similar to Point Judith in the sense that this spot also has three different breaks in one: Trestles, Deep Hole, and the Point. Trestles is an A-frame wave, with barreling rights and fast-paced lefts; Deep Hole is one punchy left; and the Point is another A-frame with short rights and long-rolling lefts. Matunuck is also like Misquamicut, having waves year round for all surfers to try.
First Beach -- Newport
First Beach is a unique spot in RI, because unlike most spots whose waves come up from the South, the beach here faces much more easterly.
This allows First Beach to pick up arguably better swells from other directions, which take form in the beach’s cove shape at the bottom of Aquidneck Island.
This is our top recommendation for beginners -- no real risk factors and slower, encouraging waves!
Photo Meghan Gallary
The Bottom Line: Surfing in Rhode Island
Small but mighty, Rhode Island is packed full of surf destinations all year fit for surfers of any experience level.
So, whether you’ve never been on a board before, or have been surfing as long as you've been walking, this state is a must-visit if you’re on the East Coast looking for waves.