The Best Ways to Avoid Summer Crowds in Newport
It is possible! Here are my top tips.
Summer in Newport, RI is great. The weather is incredible and there’s tons of events, but it’s also the most popular time to visit, and sometimes (most of the time), it’s a zoo. If you’ve ever been to Newport in the summer, you know what I mean, and in the last few years, it’s only gotten more crowded. If you want to make a trip, but are trying to avoid the crowds, I have a few tips to make the experience a little less chaotic and a lot more chill.
Go Early
For all my fellow early risers and early bird specials, it pays to eat early. If you try to hit up a breakfast spot after 8am or get dinner without a reservation after 5pm, you’re probably going to be waiting, a while. I love an early breakfast, lunch or dinner, and if you’re in Newport, it is one of the single best ways to beat the crowds. And if you need recs, here’s all the best places to eat in Newport.
And on the subject of early, it pays to do pretty much anything early. Walk Sachuest Point, hike the Cliff Walk, enjoy sunrise at the beach, if you go early, you will definitely beat the crowds.
Charter a Private Yacht
You might be thinking that sounds fancy or expensive, but it’s actually a very reasonable and fun way to see Newport from the water. If you’re in a group, it can be similar (or even less) than the larger charters you’ll find in town. My favorites include Newport Charter and Baywatch.
Go To The Beach After 5
Not only is the beach way less crowded after 5pm but parking is also FREE. On a warm summer night, is there anything better than bringing some food to the beach and hanging out to watch the sun go down? Some beaches close their parking lots and lock them overnight so pay attention to any announcements if you’re there once it gets dark. Here’s the best beaches in RI.
Bring a Picnic to Fort Adams
Fort Adams will forever be one of my favorite spots on the island. There’s incredible views of the Newport Bridge and (unless there’s an event going on) you can always find a quiet spot to enjoy. The huge lawn in front of Eisenhower House is a great spot for a picnic, or walk around and find a little rocky beach to relax and go for a swim. Parking is also free everywhere at the state park.
Plan a Trip The Last Week of August (or Early September)
Locals know the end of August (and September) is the best time to be in Newport. Most of the tourists are gone, kids go back to school, and the beaches are way less crowded, but the weather is still gorgeous. Mid-week is exceptionally quiet and you will have the beach to yourself!
If you really want a quiet experience, wait until mid-week during the fall to visit Newport. You’ll still get great weather and plenty to do, but you can actually get a reservation at a restaurant and most attractions to yourself!
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