Rhode Island vacation rentals

Seaside charm at Rhode Island vacation home rentals

Known as the Ocean State, much of Rhode Island sits on the coast, with long stretches of sandy beach interspersed with rocky coves. Once a summer playground for the rich and famous, many grand mansions still stand, and there are historic sites dating back to the days of the colonies. Stay in Rhode Island vacation rentals close to the beach, and enjoy long summer days on the coast, exploring charming small towns such as Narragansett with its seafront restaurants, or Newport with its artisanal shops and rich nautical history.

Tourist attractions near Rhode Island vacation rentals

Learn about the early-20th-century social scene with a tour of Newport's mansions. Once a place where the country's wealthiest families, such as the Astors and Vanderbilts, spent their summers, these grand colonial and neoclassical homes have been perfectly preserved. Step inside and you'll find imposing, ornate rooms full of historic treasures, leading out into acres of neatly-kept seafront gardens with breathtaking views. Be sure to check the opening schedules online, as some of the homes are only open seasonally, and there are often special tours available, such as a look at the servants' quarters, showing you a different perspective.

Spectacular Rhode Island clifftop views

Block Island is just a short ferry ride from the mainland, and this unspoiled island has a handful of Rhode Island vacation rentals. Mohegan Bluffs dominate the south of the island, with a 7-mile rugged hiking trail running along the clifftops. Enjoy sweeping views over the Atlantic, before following the steep wooden staircase down to the quiet coves below, with sand and shingle beaches and choppy seas. Look out for the Block Island Southeast Light, a red-brick lighthouse that dates back to the 19th century, which has a charming little museum in the old keeper's cottage.

Local weather near Rhode Island vacation homes

The beaches of Rhode Island are busy from June to early September, where the temperature can reach up to 90. In general, summers are pleasantly sunny rather than scorching hot, so you can still enjoy hiking or biking. Fall is an excellent time to visit, with colorful foliage on every tree, and chilly weather from mid-September that'll make you want to take a bracing walk along the coast. December through March is the coldest time, often with at least a couple of weeks of snow, which can be a great time to visit the delightful small towns.

Rhode Island rivers, coasts and islands

Made up of islands, peninsulas and sandbars, most areas of Rhode Island are close to either beaches or rivers, so the state's favorite activities include surfing, sailing, and anything water-based. Choose Rhode Island vacation rentals close to the shore and you can enjoy lazy days on the beach, swimming off the rocky coast, before heading for freshly-caught seafood in a rustic shack. Joined by vast bridges and local ferries, it's easy to hop around the main islands, discovering quiet coves and secluded sand dunes. Or you can rent a boat and discover uninhabited islands, with only nesting birds for company.

Transportation to and around Rhode Island

Fly into T.F. Green Airport (PVD), the closest airport, located 6.9 mi (11.1 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could also fly into Pawtucket, RI (SFZ-North Central State), which is 7.7 mi (12.3 km) away.

If you're traveling by train, Providence Station, Kingston Station and Westerly Station are the main stations in the area.

Kid-friendly attractions near Rhode Island vacation homes

Rhode Island has numerous attractions focused on kids. Vacation rentals are available near places like Roger Williams Park Zoo, a popular park with a nature museum and hundreds of global animal species, and Napatree Point Conservation Area, a coastal nature preserve with bird-watching and nature trails. Another highlight for kids is the Providence Children’s Museum, a hands-on creative learning space with educational programs for young children.

Romantic vacation rentals in Rhode Island

Couples can enjoy plenty of romantic places throughout Rhode Island. Vacation homes can be found near idyllic locations like the Breakers, an opulent Gilded Age home of the renowned Vanderbilt family that boasts ornate artwork and gardens, and the Marble House, a lavish Beaux Arts style mansion and museum. You'll also like Misquamicut State Beach, a bustling state beach with a bathhouse, shaded gazebos, and picnic areas.