In a state just 48 miles long, solitude isnt found through distanceits shaped by geography.
A curve in the road, a bend in the shore, a stone wall flanked by salt marsh.
You pass through Bonnet Shores and Quonochontaug not to arrive somewhere spectacular, but to realize youve already arrived.
By JJBers – https://www.flickr.com/photos/jjbers/33980495256/, CC BY 2.0
These ten coastal neighborhoods arent tourist magnets or destinations curated for show.
Oyster beds, ferry slips, walking paths where gulls outnumber people.
Rhode Island is called the Ocean State for good reason.
With over 400 miles of tidal edge, even its smallest communities are rarely far from water.
This list doesnt claim hidden treasure or offer sweeping discovery.
The community has a small year-round population, with seasonal residents increasing during summer.
Where is Watch Hill?
Watch Hill is located in southwestern Rhode Island, at the farthest point of Westerly along the coastline.
It is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Little Narragansett Bay, providing a secluded coastal environment.
The neighborhood is accessible via Route 1 and Watch Hill Road, which leads directly into the village.
Its remote yet scenic location ensures a quiet and luxurious seaside experience.
The population remains relatively low, contributing to its peaceful and close-knit feel.
Saunderstowns seclusion comes from its lack of major commercial development, ensuring a quiet and residential atmosphere.
Where is Saunderstown?
Saunderstown is located along the western shore of Narragansett Bay, between the towns of Narragansett and North Kingstown.
It is tucked away from major highways, with access via Route 1A and Tower Hill Road.
The peaceful surroundings and lack of heavy traffic make it feel more secluded than other waterfront communities.
Visitors can reach it by car, with the Jamestown Bridge nearby providing a scenic route to the village.
The neighborhoods charming, well-preserved homes and quiet streets contribute to its appeal as a coastal retreat.
Where is Conimicut?
Conimicut is located in Warwick, on the western shore of Narragansett Bay.
It is accessible via West Shore Road, which leads directly into the neighborhood from the city center.
The areas peaceful character comes from its limited traffic and its natural coastal barriers.
Visitors can reach Conimicut by taking Interstate 95 to Warwick and then following local roads east toward the waterfront.
The approximate population is modest, contributing to its close-knit feel.
The area also offers opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and enjoying the natural coastal landscape.
Bonnet Shores encapsulates the essence of relaxed seaside living away from urban centers.
Where is Bonnet Shores?
Situated on the west side of Narragansett Bay, Bonnet Shores is easily accessible yet feels worlds apart.
Its located north of Narragansett Pier and is bordered by the Pettaquamscutt River to the west.
The geography includes rolling hills and sweeping views of the bay, enhancing its secluded ambiance.
Its proximity to major roads and its tucked-away setting make it convenient and peacefully isolated.
The neighborhood is characterized by rustic charm, with fishing boats docked along the piers and open ocean views.
Activities in the area include fishing, walking along the harbor, and enjoying fresh seafood at local eateries.
The laid-back atmosphere and maritime heritage make Jerusalem a unique and secluded spot on the Rhode Island coast.
Where is Jerusalem?
Jerusalem is situated in Narragansett, directly across the harbor from Galilee, accessible via Succotash Road.
Its geography is interesting because its only accessible by land through South Kingstown, adding to its secluded feel.
The area features traditional New England cottages and spacious properties tucked among the dunes and maritime forests.
Activities include beachcombing, swimming, and boating on the salt pond and the Atlantic Ocean.
Where is Quonochontaug?
Quonochontaug lies between Westerly and South Kingstown in Charlestown, along Route 1A.
Its geography includes Quonochontaug Pond and the barrier beach separating the pond from the ocean.
Known for its classic shingled cottages and pristine beaches, Weekapaug offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
With a small population primarily consisting of summer residents, the village maintains a quiet ambiance throughout the year.
Activities in Weekapaug include beach walks, sailing, and enjoying the coastlines natural beauty.
The areas commitment to preserving its traditional character and limiting commercial development contributes to its secluded and timeless atmosphere.
Where is Weekapaug?
Situated in the southwestern part of Rhode Island, Weekapaug is located along the Atlantic Ocean in Westerly.
Its accessed via Noyes Neck Road off Route 1A, which winds through scenic landscapes before reaching the village.
The population is modest, contributing to the areas quiet charm.
The neighborhoods blend of natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle make it a beloved spot along Rhode Islands South Shore.
Where is Matunuck?
Located along the southern coast of Rhode Island, Matunuck is accessible via Matunuck Beach Road off Route 1.
The geography includes barrier beaches and salt ponds, providing diverse ecosystems and peaceful surroundings.
Matunucks secluded feel is enhanced by its distance from major highways and the expansive open spaces surrounding it.
The community has a low year-round population, with many homes used as summer residences.
The area includes sailing, clamming, and relaxing on the quiet shoreline.
Plum Beach has no major industries, making it a true residential retreat focusing on leisure and natural beauty.
Where is Plum Beach?
Plum Beach is in North Kingstown, just west of the Jamestown Bridge.
It is set apart from commercial centers and accessible via Route 1A and Plum Beach Road.
The population is small, with many residents working in the fishing trade or seasonal tourism.
Fishing and tourism are the main industries, with commercial fishing boats regularly departing from the harbor.
Its seclusion comes from its position at the southernmost tip of Narragansett, surrounded by water on three sides.
The strong coastal winds and rugged shoreline add to its remote and maritime character.
Where is Point Judith?
Point Judith is in the southernmost part of Narragansett, jutting into the Atlantic Ocean.
Due to its coastal geography, the neighborhood feels isolated, with few roads leading in or out.
Visitors can reach it by taking Route 1 to Narragansett and following Route 108 to the shoreline.
