The Beavertail Lighthouse Museum at Beavertail State Park is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It is closed from Monday to Friday.
Admission to Beavertail State Park is free, with no entrance fees required.
From Newport: Cross the Newport Bridge, follow signs to Jamestown, then “Beavertail State Park” on E Shore Rd. From Providence: I-95 S → RI-4 S → RI-138 E → Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge → follow park signs. From NYC: I-95 N → RI-138 E → exit to Jamestown → park.
Parking at Beavertail State Park is free, with no fees or reservations needed. There are no designated RV camping spots, but cars and motorcycles can park. No overnight parking is allowed. Pets must be leashed.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Looking for a classic New England coastal experience with panoramic ocean views and rich maritime history? Beavertail State Park, located at the southern tip of Jamestown on Conanicut Island in Rhode Island, is one of the top destinations for coastal sightseeing, hiking, and historic exploration. Spanning 153 acres, the park offers access to dramatic rocky cliffs, tidal pools, and sweeping views of Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
At the heart of the park stands the iconic Beavertail Lighthouse, originally established in 1749 and recognized as one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States. Visitors can tour the onsite Beavertail Lighthouse Museum, which features exhibits on nautical navigation, lighthouse technology, and local shipwreck history. The nearby observation deck provides a prime spot for photography and whale or seabird watching.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy scenic coastal hiking trails, shoreline fishing, and tide pool exploration during low tide. Birdwatchers frequently spot species such as ospreys, eiders, and northern harriers along the oceanfront cliffs and meadows. The park also includes remnants of World War II military bunkers, offering a unique glimpse into its wartime coastal defense history.
Whether you’re planning a day trip from Newport or Providence or exploring the broader Aquidneck Island region, Beavertail State Park delivers a blend of outdoor recreation, educational attractions, and stunning seaside landscapes. Popular activities include picnicking with ocean views, sunset photography, and seasonal lighthouse events.
Beavertail is a must-visit for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape along Rhode Island’s scenic southern coast.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Established year
- 1980
Top 3 Facts about Beavertail State Park
During World War II, the area was part of Fort Burnside, which included a HECP building constructed in 1943, located midway within the present northern boundaries, and disguised as a large seaside cottage called Bombproof Cottage C-1, standing at an elevation of 3.0 meters.
Geological Wonders: The park features 600-million-year-old metamorphic rock formations, revealing a glimpse of Earth’s ancient past.
Military History: WWII coastal defense bunkers and observation posts remain as silent sentinels along the shoreline.
Family programs
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Volunteer & Stewardship
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Check the coastal weather forecast before visiting, as conditions can change rapidly along the shore.
Pack Appropriately
Dress in layers and bring a windbreaker or waterproof jacket; sturdy shoes for rocky trails and tide pools are essential.
Respect Wildlife
Observe wildlife—shorebirds, seabirds, and small mammals—from a safe distance; do not feed or disturb animals.
Stay Informed
Consult local tide tables and plan a visit at low tide to explore rich tide pools and marine life safely.
Seasons
Spring brings mild temperatures (50–65°F), blooming wildflowers, and returning migratory birds; trails are quieter and tide pools teem with life.
Summer is peak season with warm, sunny days for tidepool exploration, picnicking, and lighthouse tours; expect crowds and book nearby lodging early.
Fall delivers cooler weather (55–70°F) and vibrant foliage along the bluffs; water remains swimmable and crowds thin after Labor Day, offering serene coastal hikes.
Winter offers dramatic seascapes, stark cliffs dusted with snow, and peaceful solitude; bundle up against coastal winds and check weather for storm-driven waves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Beavertail State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest cities are Jamestown and Newport, both located in Rhode Island. Jamestown is where the park is situated, and Newport is nearby.
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The Beavertail Lighthouse Loop is the most family-friendly trail, offering a 2.3 mile loop that is mostly flat with woods and grass trails, free parking, and a lighthouse museum open seasonally. The trail has ocean and rocky coastline views, and dogs are allowed. However, be aware that ticks are prevalent and the rocks can be slippery.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet. Owners are also required to clean up after their dogs.
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Parking is not free; there is an entrance fee. For Rhode Island residents, the fee is included in the state park pass, but for non-residents, there is a charge. Specific fees are not specified for this park, but general state park fees apply.
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The top attraction is the Beavertail Lighthouse, an active lighthouse that has been guiding mariners since 1749, with the current tower dating from 1856. This historic lighthouse is one of the oldest in the United States and offers a museum with exhibits on nautical history and lighthouse technology.
