Blue Shutters Beach | Prepare for an Unforgettable Day at the Beach Not Far From Newport, RI

If you’re heading to Newport, Rhode Island or Rhode Island in general, Blue Shutters Beach is the best beach to check out if you want to avoid the summer crowds!

So I’m sure we’d all agree that not all beaches are created equal. Personally, I would prefer to drive a bit to find the perfect beach. That’s just what we did when we visited Newport, Rhode Island. We did a ton of research and decided the best beach to try out was Blue Shutters Town Beach. This beach did not disappoint, I felt like we were literally on a movie set!

What is the perfect beach you ask??? Well, in our little opinion, it is not over crowded. I mean the point is to relax! We like to have our own space that is quiet so all we can hear is the sound of the ocean. Also, we prefer decent waves, and fine, fluffy sand that extends for miles so we can walk down the beach. Oh, and a clean bathroom is nice! If this sounds like your perfect beach keep on reading!

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Newport, check out this post:

Where to Stay in Newport Rhode Island | My Favorite Little Inn in Newport

This post is all about Blue Shutters Beach.

Where is Blue Shutters Beach located?

69 East Beach Road Charlestown, RI

This beach is located in Charlestown, Rhode Island. It is roughly 45 minutes west of Newport, Rhode Island and 55 minutes from Providence. I promise you it is worth the short drive as Newport beaches can be so crowded. Plus, it’s a good way to see more of this beautiful “Ocean State”!

Are there parking fees?

There is a parking fee of $20 on weekdays and $40 on weekends and holidays. Keep in mind the prices could have changed since I updated this post, so I’ll link to the current pricing here. This is a bit steep, however, we did feel it was worth it for such a beautiful, clean beach.

Numerous times we didn’t arrive until about 4 pm and the young boys at the gate were just getting ready to leave, so they didn’t make us pay to park. Once we visited in September and the season was technically over, so we got to park for free again! Generally speaking, during the summer season they have people there from 9-5 pm Monday-Friday and 8-5 pm on weekends to collect the parking fee. It seems they stop collecting the parking fee at 4 pm and move on to doing other things before heading out for the day.

Are there bathrooms?

Yes, the parking fee does include clean bathrooms and changing areas. The bathrooms get locked at 5 pm. They have a porta-potty outside of the bathroom building that you can use if the restrooms close before you leave. Actually, it was surprisingly clean too!

Is there a lifeguard on duty?

Yes, during the summer season. There is a lifeguard from 9-5pm on weekdays (non holidays) and 8-5pm on weekends and holidays, weather permitting.

Can you bring dogs to this beach?

No, there are no pets allowed at Blue Shutters Beach. That having been said, on this last visit in June 2023, I did see a few dogs on the beach. I found a great site with dog-friendly beaches in Rhode Island. You can find that website here.

Is there a concession stand?

No there is no concession stand. There is nothing really within walking distance for food. I would recommend to have a late, big breakfast then head to the beach for the rest of the day with snacks in tow. Then leave when you’re ready for dinner. That worked out great for us.

tip: just down the road from blue shutters beach is Monahan’s Clam Shack. they have picnic tables, decent kid options, and ice cream. Perfect for a LAID-BACK dinner after a long beach day.

Tip: if you’re staying in newport, ri a great cafe for breakfast is the corner cafe. you can check out their menu here. I recommend the berry pancakes supreme, so good!!!

The scenery…

This is just such a beautiful, wide open beach with spectacular views of Block Island Sound. The sand is fluffy and warm and the waves are rolling, but not so much that they’re obnoxious. There are picturesque little fences you can capture with the scenery which makes for great Instagram posts! I just thought it was the sweetest beach that checked all my boxes.

The beach was not over crowded in the least. We went in late June and again in mid September. In the height of summer, there would likely be more people, but still the beach is known for less crowds in general.

The walk…

We took the most lovely walk at this beach, a few times! Once you’re on the beach, if you head to the right and keep walking, you’ll come to some gorgeous houses right on the water (pictured earlier). Yes, you’ll be tempted to window peep, LOL!!! Just as you get to this area, there are big rocks that the waves crash into. They make for great photos as you can see below.

That’s a wrap!

This may be my shortest post to date! I hope that this was helpful if you’re on the hunt for a lovely Rhode Island beach. Blue Shutters Beach will not disappoint! Grab a good book and a comfy chair and prepare to relax, sleep and take a stroll. I promise, it will make for an unforgettable day at the beach! Happy Travels!