Newport Activities

Locals will tell you that the best way to see Newport is by boat—from the Narragansett Bay, you'll have gorgeous views of the town's rocky coastline and beautiful mansions, plus the over-the-top yachts and sailboats the town is famous for. Husband-and-wife team Greg and Alana have several stunning antique boats in their lineup, with the capacity for a romantic sunset cruise for two, or up to 68 passengers on a tall sailing ship. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, or Alana can arrange for catering through the company.

Newport's preppy reputation precedes it, so it's fitting that the town is home to the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Housed in the former Newport Casino (a grand, old shingle-style building that's officially a National Historic Landmark), it's home to exhibitions of historic memorabilia–including some incredible old-school tennis whites–as well as several beautifully maintained tennis courts. Book a time slot in advance, and you can play a few games on the immaculate historic grass courts.

Despite Newport's serious yacht culture, the gorgeous scenery can still be enjoyed with both feet on solid ground.

On one side, take in the stunning coastline and on the other you'll get a stellar view of many of Newport’s gilded age era mansions.

Classic Cruises and their custom tours take full advantage of the amazing vantage point that is the water in Newport. Thrill seekers can relive the sea chases of the prohibition era on high-speed motorboat Rum Runner II, built in 1929. Meanwhile, the romantics can glide through Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay on the seventy-two-foot schooner, The Madeleine. The incredibly knowledgeable crew will give you the insider scoop on every cove, lighthouse, and seaside home on the coastline. Aim for a sunset cruise to take in the scenery with a glass of wine‚ and for those looking for an even more special experience, the boats are available for small groups and private charter.

Mobile Kayaks takes all the hassle out of renting water sports equipment and brings the kayaks and paddle boards to you and your party.

This is one of Newport’s most popular beaches (which means you’ll be braving the crowds) but it’s a worthwhile stop if you’re traveling with kids for its playground, old-school merry-go-round, dime-size aquarium, Del’s Lemonade (an RI classic), and lobster rolls at the snack bar. There are better swimming holes, but Newport’s only ocean beach boasts the most attractions.

The name pretty much explains why this is an ideal daytrip for kids. Take a picnic (stop by Le Petit Gourmet enroute) and head 20 minutes out of town to Portsmouth. There’s a mansion on the property with an antique toy collection, but the real attraction is the multitude of topiary animals, geometric shapes, and manicured flower gardens outdoors.

While pro surfers head to Newport to catch ten and 15 foot swells at Ruggles break point, there are gentler beaches like Second where the waves are more appropriate for beginners. It’s here that Rhody’s instructors teach one hour private and group lessons (they also provide all the necessary equipment). Kids can also join their week-long morning surf camps—sign up online, as they fill up quickly.

Newport is basically mecca in the sailing community. It hosts several big-name regattas, including the Americas Cup (The Newport Regatta was June 9th-12th). If you’re new to the sport, there are plenty of spots offering lessons, though this family-run business on Goat Island—in operation since the ‘60s—is one of the classics. They offer courses for beginner, intermediate, and advanced sailors in two to four class packages, ideal if you’re staying in Newport for a short stint. If you’re only in town for the weekend and looking to get out on the water, you can also book an hour’s tour of the harbor and Naragansett Bay.