watch hill yacht club photos

2024 SUMMER CRUISE SEASON

Cruise event registration link, may 17: crui se season kickoff dinner at the club.

Gather at the Club around 5:30pm for a cocktail.  Dinner at 6:00pm.  

June 5 - 7: Block Island

Dinner at The Barn on June 6th at 1800.   Dinner will be prix fixe and served family style.   Port Captain: Nick Durgarian

June 22 : A day on Fishers Island

Arrive Fishers Island around 1100.  Gather at noon on the lawn of the FIYC for a BYO picnic.  Small boat transfer available to/from shore and the anchorage and the mooring field. Those who would like to overnight aboard their boats arrive a day early or depart the following day.  Port Captain: Chuck Miller    

July 28 - 31: A Cruise through Narragansett Bay 

July 28: jamestown   dutch harbor.

Approximately 30 NM from Watch Hill passage.  Moorings through Dockwa.   Port Captain: David Grande  

July 29: East Greenwich

Dinner at a local restaurant - order from the menu. Port Captain: Nick Durgarian

July 30 & 31: Newport

July 30th - Cruise Group Dinner in downtown Newport on July 30th. Dinner will be prix fixe served family style. July 31st - open night Port Captain: Gerry Gorman

Sept 12 - 14: Gardiners Bay

Sept 12: three mile harbor, sept 13 - 14: dering harbor.

Cruise Group Dinner at SIYC on Sept 13. Contact SIYC for a mooring at (631) 749 0888 or reserve a slip in Dering harbor or Greenport at any one of a number of marinas on Dockwa. Port Captain: Bill McKendree

Cruising Photos 2022

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A Weekend Traveler’s Guide to Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Grab your sunglasses and a wide-brim hat—a New England destination doesn’t get any more glamorous than this land of seaside mansions.

From day trips to weekend getaways, our biweekly Traveler newsletter shows you the best of New England and beyond.

An aerial view of the sprawling and scenic Ocean House Hotel. / Photo courtesy of Ocean House, Rhode Island

While other Gilded Age summer colonies have ossified into museum pieces, Watch Hill, Rhode Island, retains all the magnificence of its original heyday, along with a low-key attitude and tremendous charm. A veritable Brigadoon of handsome shingle-style mansions, it’s successfully escaped Disney-fication and remains almost absurdly picturesque. No wonder it’s captivated everyone from Albert Einstein to Groucho Marx, along with the well-heeled likes of Henry Ford and Andrew Mellon. Other than Taylor Swift, though—who famously owns a rambling white heap on Bluff Avenue that once belonged to Standard Oil heiress Rebekah Harkness—the money is resolutely old and quiet. New York Knickerbocker families and the descendants of Midwestern industrialists sip gin and tonics and don tennis whites to play generational grudge matches at the Misquamicut Club or slip into Topsiders to sail out of the Watch Hill Yacht Club.

Even without entrée to these rarefied spaces, a casual summer visitor can enjoy all the best Watch Hill has to offer, from its magnificent beaches to the local ice cream shop, which has been tickling sweet tooths since 1887.

A ride on the Flying Horse Carousel. / Photo via Creative Commons/Robellin

A trip to Watch Hill is a bit like stepping into a Slim Aarons photograph , offering a refined taste of the good life from a more civilized age. There isn’t a summer diversion you won’t find in the area, from volleyball on the beach to surfcasting and birdwatching at Napatree Point Conservation Area . Local landmarks include the Watch Hill Lighthouse , the Flying Horse Carousel (which claims to be the oldest continuously operating carousel in the country), and the stately grand dame of Watch Hill, Ocean House hotel. There, you can rub elbows with the local gentry at the Verandah over cocktails and a signature seafood tower or take a croquet lesson on the perfectly maintained lawn from national champion and in-house pro Stephen Morgan.

The lobster roll from the Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn. / Photo courtesy of Weekapaug Inn, Rhode Island

First things first: No visit to Watch Hill is complete without a stop at the St. Clair Annex , a family-owned ice cream and sandwich shop operated by the Nicholas family for more than 135 years. In addition to the delicious small-batch ice cream, they make a mean grinder (our favorite is the Italian). The Olympia Tea Room , which dates to 1916, doesn’t accept reservations, but dishes like linguini with roasted clams and Portuguese baked haddock make the wait for one of the antique mahogany booths worthwhile. For fine dining, head over to the nearby Weekapaug Inn , the Relais & Châteaux sibling of Ocean House, for dinner at the Restaurant (don’t miss the Stonington scallops and Crescent Farm duck duo). And finally, all of the dining options right at Ocean House—from the Bistro , with its classic burger and crab cakes, to the award-winning Coast , with its five-course degustation menu of elevated seasonal cuisine—are tiptop.

Pretty much the entirety of Watch Hill’s retail district is located on Bay Street and ranges from little souvenir shops to chic boutiques. The trendy women’s clothing boutique Rochelle’s has done so well that it’s expanded to five more locations; the quirky and charming Lolo , meanwhile, carries beach and pet toys in addition to scented candles, cocktail napkins, puzzles, and other excellent hostess gifts. And WH2O , operated by husband-and-wife team Eric and Georgia Jones, carries a fun selection of items, including Brackish bow ties, nautical-themed tea towels and napkin rings, and jewelry for both men and women.

Serene poolside seating at Ocean House. / Photo courtesy of Ocean House, Rhode Island

With its extensive gardens and swanky beach club, the iconic yellow-and-white Ocean House boasts, among other things, the world’s largest collection of work by the French illustrator Ludwig Bemelmans (creator of Madeline ). Kids will be enchanted by the hotel’s self-guided Mortimer Mouse Scavenger Hunt, while couples can canoodle in one of the 49 spacious rooms that have hosted the likes of Hugh Jackman and offer commanding views of Block Island Sound.

Getting There

Although Watch Hill is as far south as you can go in Rhode Island (it’s literally on the Connecticut border), there are no bridges to cross or ferries to take, making it a hassle-free two-hour drive on I-95.

Napatree Point Conservation Area offers 86 acres of prime bird-watching. / Photo by Michael St. Jean/Getty Images

First published in the print edition of the July 2023 issue with the headline “Watch Hill, Rhode Island.” 

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Watch Hill Yacht Club

Location & Hours

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Westerly, RI 02891

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Watch Hill is a rather exclusive area for shopping, dining or people watching, Taylor Swift has a beautiful summer home there and is occasionally sited in the local establishments. The Yacht club is centrally located and it is always fun to peruse the harbor and view the yachts, sailboats and fishing boats moored there. There are some great picture photo opportunities to be had especially in the evening around sunset, you wont want to miss this part of Westerly RI it is charming. Also, if you have an interest in fine paintings with a focus on marine art The Lily Pad Gallery should be on your list, the owner is a serious student of the arts and her collection is first class.

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Watch Hill Yacht Club

• 1 Fort Road, Westerly, RI
• (401) 596-4986

All efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this website, however it is subject to change. Information is updated in an ongoing manner in partnership with local tourism offices, individual businesses and organizations and via a direct feed from goprovidence.com, discovernewport.org, southcountyri.com and Yelp.com.

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Your Guide to Wandering

Watch Hill, Rhode Island: 13 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit

Watch Hill is an upscale neighborhood located on the southern tip of Rhode Island in Westerly. Less known than the Hamptons or Newport, Watch Hill is a quiet luxury New England getaway. This quaint, coastal town is a hidden gem that offers gorgeous ocean views, fine dining, and numerous boutiques, art galleries, and seasonal events.

Watch Hill may attract travelers of luxury but still maintains its charming New England atmosphere with its historic Victorian homes and cute downtown. Come to experience Westerly’s beautiful white sand beaches, fresh seafood, and nature activities. Watch Hill in Westerly Rhode Island is the perfect destination for your next summer weekend!

Visiting Watch Hill Rhode Island

Watch Hill is located only 2 hours from Boston, and 3 hours from New York. It is also easily accessible for travelers flying in from TF Green Airport in Warwick Rhode Island which is about a 40-minute drive away. There is also a train station in Westerly but you will have to grab an Uber from the train station to get to Watch Hill. I’d suggest driving in to have access to all of Watch Hill’s beaches and attractions.

What famous people live in Watch Hill?

Watch Hill is famous for being one of the residences of 12-time Grammy-winning artist Taylor Swift. She has a 16-bedroom mansion overlooking the western part of East Beach (not too shabby!) If you want to see her mansion, I’d recommend taking a peek from the beach as driving past you won’t see much. There is security around the perimeter of her property and stopping in front of her house for pictures is strictly not allowed. Remember- please respect her privacy!

What is the famous house in Watch Hill Rhode Island?

The Ocean House is a gorgeous Victorian hotel along the beach that is the only Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond Hotel in Rhode Island. This property has an enormous on-site spa as well as several restaurants and bars.

Taylor Swift’s house is also a famous Watch Hill house. The best view is from the East Beach where you can see her white mansion overlooking the water.

Where should I park for Watch Hill?

Watch Hill has metered parking along its downtown area. The spots are very limited and are limited to 2 hours. If you want to spend the entire day at the beach or exploring Watch Hill, you’ll have to park in a reserved lot which varies from $20-30. You are able to make reservations for parking lots at Watch Hill Parking . You must make a reservation in advance as same-day parking is not allowed.

Once you have parked, Watch Hill is very walkable.

13 Things to Do in Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Watch Hill is a quintessential New England beach town with options for swimming, sunbathing, strolling along the water, and boating.

1. Visit Watch Hill Beach

Watch Hill Beach is a family friendly beach, ideal for swimming and sunbathing on the soft sand shore. Also known as Carousel Beach, this beach is centrally located near downtown.

There are amenities at Watch Hill Beach including restrooms, changing rooms, and umbrella/chair rentals. Located right near the historic 1876 Carousel, there are numerous summer events along the beach as well as quick access to restaurants and shopping.

The parking is extremely limited around the beach (most are fee based street parking) so be sure to arrive early in the summer months.

2. Visit the Historic Carousel on Watch Hill Beach

Bring your kids to ride this historic wooden carousel from the 1860s. The oldest surviving carousel of its kind, kids 12 and under can ride the carousel’s wooden horses suspended from the ceiling with brass chains.

Each horse is crafted from a single piece of wood, and adorned with leather saddles and real horse hair. For $1 kids can ride on the inner row, or for $2 kids can ride on the outer row for a chance to grab the ring and earn a free ride.

3. Visit the Watch Hill Lighthouse and Museum

One of the oldest and most picturesque lighthouses in Rhode Island, the Watch Hill Lighthouse has been a beacon for ships since 1745. Leading up to the lighthouse is a quarter-mile-long path that offers beautiful views of the ocean (especially at sunrise or sunset!)

The Museum has extremely limited seasonal hours from 1-3 on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday but is worth a visit. It is run by the Watch Hill Lighthouse Keepers Association.

4. Surf at East Beach (and peek Taylor Swift’s house)

East Beach has slightly rougher waves than Watch Hill Beach which makes it ideal for surfers. This 3-mile-long barrier beach separates the Atlantic Ocean and Ninigret Pond and offers gentle waves and untouched beaches.

This beach is harder to get to than Watch Hill and has extremely limited parking on Larkin Street (which helps keep East Beach less crowded!). There are no amenities at East Beach so families would be better off visiting Watch Hill Beach.

Enjoy the view of Block Island or rent out one of the nearby camping spots. Imagine waking up to the sound of ocean waves! This beach also is in close proximity to the Watch Hill towncenter so make sure to stop by for some icecream or a lobster roll after your day on the beach.

East Beach will offer the best view of Taylor Swift’s house. Dont bother driving past her house as security does not allow anyone to stop.

5. Hike and Birdwatch at Napatree Point

Just east of Watch Hill Beach, you will find Napatree Point Beach at the entrance of Napatree Point Conservation Area. The beach does not attract the same crowds as the Watch Hill area beaches as there are no facilities or amenities. It is a perfect place to enjoy the beach in peace.

Napatree Point Beach is ideal for nature lovers as there is plenty of birdwatching! Be sure to bring your binoculars to see the numerous migratory birds running among the dunes or spot the hawks that arrive in late summer. It is also a nesting area for birds like osprey, egrets, and falcons.

You can also start your day hiking at the Nappatree Point Conservation area and end up on the beach. There is a 2.75-mile hike that has marshes, boulder scrambles, and walking along the sand. There are also biking trails!

6. Check out the ruins of Fort Mansfield

Napatree Point in Watch Hill was strategically used as a watch point for many groups in history (hence its name “Watch Hill”). Watch Hill was a lookout point for indigenous tribes for centuries and was used during the French and Indian War and Revolutionary War as a lookout point for enemy ships. In the late 1800s in an effort to reinforce the security of the U.S. coastline, Fort Mansfield was built on Watch Hill.

However, in a mock battle in 1907 Fort Mansfield proved to be vulnerable to attack and was no longer funded as a military lookout point. It has fallen to ruin but still makes for an interesting historical visit among the bushes and mashes of Napatree Point.

7. Go for a sailing excursion

Watch Hill is the perfect place for a sailing adventure. Enjoy watching the boats from the Watch Hill Yacht Club take off, or rent your own excursion. Rent a private sailboat or motor yacht with friends or take a guided moonlit or seal tour.

Local companies Trim Again or the Ocean House offers a variety of different tours and packages.

8. Go shopping

Watch Hill has a compact downtown area that is loaded with boutiques and nautical giftshops. There is everything from tourist t-shirt shops, to artisan jewelry, to ocean themed home goods, and colorful kids’ clothing. Most of the stores are independent but you can find larger brands like Lilly Pulitzer, known for its bright nautical colors.

Some shop highlights include Charlotte Julienne and Bay Breeze Interiors- perfect for decorating a beach house, or Sea Bags which sells beach bags made from recycled sails. Coco and Lala is a colorful shop that has a kid’s clothing shop and a women’s clothing shop. Perfect to buy brightly colored long dresses for matching clothes with the kids this summer.

Most of the shops will be on Bay Street but be sure to check out those closest to the Ocean House as well!

9. Check out some local art

In addition to countless boutiques, there are also a number of art galleries. Be sure to check out Lily Pad Gallery which has everything from realism to impressionism. If formal galleries aren’t your style, Watch Hill has seasonal artisan markets where you can purchase handmade crafts and paintings.

10. Visit the Ocean House

The Ocean House is a gorgeous Victorian hotel along the beach that is the only Forbes Five Star and AAA Five Diamond Hotel in Rhode Island. This sprawling property offers an upscale experience with New England charm.

I’d highly suggest booking a stay at the property but even a visit to the property is worth the trip! The Ocean House has an award winning 12,000 foot spa as well as several restaurants with stunning views of the ocean. Come for a glass of wine at the Secret Garden bar or stay as a guest for the entire weekend!

11. Grab an icecream cone at Clair Annex

No beach trip is complete without a icecream cone! This family owned shop has operated for over 125 years and is located conveniently in downtown Watch Hill. Reasonably priced, the shop also has sandwiches and breakfast as well as icecream sundaes and ice cream fountain classics.

Grab an icecream after dinner and watch the sunset over Narragansett Bay. Expect a long line on summer nights!

12. Explore Miquamicut Beach and its Atlantic Beach Park

While not technically in Watch Hill, these attractions are found in Westerly only a short drive away. Misquamicut State Beach is a half-mile stretch of sand that offers soft sands, and waves for beginners. Between the gradual drop-off in the water and countless amenities nearby, it is a great spot for families.

The amenities include restrooms, changing areas, outdoor showers, a playground, shady picnic areas, pavilion access, and snack shacks. The summer months also bring lots of activities such as fireworks, or live music. Parking for non-seasonal pass holders costs $12 on weekdays and $30 on weekends but seasonal passes can be  purchased online .

The highlight of the beach is the Atlantic Beach Park across the street for go-carts, mini-golf, or sand-free water fun.

13. Take a day trip to Newport Rhode Island

Watch Hill is located less than an hour’s drive from Newport Rhode Island. While Watch Hill is known for its understated wealth, Newport is known for its historic mansions and opulence (think Great Gatsby!) One of the best beach towns in New England, Newport is worth a day trip!

Explore the Cliff Walk and explore the several Guilded-age mansions that dot the coast. Easily walkable, downtown Newport also has numerous restaurants, boutiques, and galleries to enjoy.

Unique Places to Stay in Westerly, Rhode Island

Watch Hill certainly isn’t a budget-friendly destination as there are many luxury resorts and rentals . However, there are some options in Westerly that provide the most value for your stay!

Watch Hill Locations

Best Luxury Spot The Ocean House

This iconic property offers stunning views of the ocean and world-class amenities and dining. Rated as a Forbes 5 star and AAA Five Diamond Hotel, expect luxury accommodation with a classic New England Victorian charm.

Best Mid-Range Spot Watch Hill Condo

This Condo is located minutes from Watch Hill Beach, the historic carousel, and numerous dining options. A perfect pick for families or larger groups, this Condo includes a kitchen and parking. Rooms are available with ocean views!

Click here for rates and availability at Watch Hill Condo!

Best Location Watch Hill Cottage

This cottage is walkable to the beach in less than 5 minutes. Perfect for larger groups who want quick restaurants, shopping, and beach access.

Click here for rates and availability at Watch Hill Cottage!

Westerly Locations

Best Budget Spot Hotel Maria

This hotel is not in the Watch Hill neighborhood but only a short drive away in Westerly, Rhode Island. This beautiful beachfront hotel offers private beach access, onsite dining, and complimentary bikes. The homey yet nautical atmosphere is perfect for a getaway on Misquamicut beach in Westerly Rhode Island.

Click here for rates and availability at Hotel Maria!

Best Family Spot Breezeway Resort

A short drive from the Watch Hill neighborhood in Westerly, this simple yet updated resort has an outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to the beach. Close to Watch Hill, and the Block Island Ferry, this would be a perfect place for your family’s next trip.

Click here for rates and availability at Breezeway Resort !

Watch Hill, Rhode Island Restaurant Highlights

Olympia Tea Room – A classic New England family-owned restaurant dating back to the 1930s with a bistro-style menu and “famous not fancy” moto.

Coast – This fine dining restaurant is located within the Ocean House and has upscale seafood and wine pairings.

Cooked Goose – This Watch Hill classic establishment opens for breakfast and lunch. Prices are midrange and perfect for a quick stop on the way to the beach.

Conclusion: Watch Hill

Watch Hill is absolutely worth a visit for your next beach getaway! A coastal, charming, upscale New England town, Watch Hill offers soft sand beaches , boutique shopping, and great seafood restaurants . Watch Hill is known for its beautiful beaches, classic Watch Hill Lighthouse as well as its historic beachside carousel from 1860, as well as the sprawling luxury hotel The Ocean House.

Enjoy a summer da y in this ideal New England beach town !

11 Of The Best Things To Do In Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Watch Hill, Rhode Island is a small village in the town of Westerly, just across the Connecticut border.

This charming town, surrounded by the Atlantic, is known for its incredible beaches, historic mansions, and small downtown area with popular shops and restaurants.

A trip to this special place, whether it’s a full week or just a day, is an absolute treat! Read on for my favorite things to do in Watch Hill, Rhode Island.

Table of Contents

Things To Do In Watch Hill, RI

Visit east beach in watch hill .

Thanks to Watch Hill’s location at the southernmost point of Rhode Island there’s no shortage of beaches in the area!

East Beach is the town’s public beach with white sand and sweeping views of the Atlantic. This 2 mile stretch is a great spot to lounge out and enjoy the ocean. 

East Beach was definitely one of the most beautiful beaches we saw during our New England road trip and a must visit during your time in Watch Hill, RI. 

The beach is free to all visitors but public parking is extremely limited in the summer months.

Additional Beaches In Watch Hill, RI

• Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round & Beach 
• Napatree Point Beach
• Misquamicut State Beach

Catch A Glimpse Of Taylor Swift’s House

Watch Hill’s celebrity resident is one we know all too well, 14-time Grammy winning pop star, Taylor Swift.

Her 16 bedroom mansion overlooks the west end of East Beach and is clearly visible to beach-goers. If you wish to see the house, doing so from the beach is your best option.

You can also drive by her house on the street, but don’t plan to do much other than catch a glimpse out the window as you drive by.

Parking in the area is extremely limited and stopping in front of the house is strictly prohibited (there’s manned security on site).

There are lots of beautiful mansions in the area, be sure to enjoy them all while you’re here!

As always, be respectful of Taylor Swift’s privacy as well as local residents and other visitors.

Walk The Shops 

Watch Hill has a very compact downtown area but it’s loaded with cute shops ranging from Lilly Pulitzer to local boutiques.

Most shops are located along Bay Street but be sure to also explore the surrounding streets as well, especially towards Ocean House Hotel. 

Go For A Ride On Flying Horse Carousel

While checking out the shops stop by the historic carousel, Flying Horse, located at the southernmost end of Bay Street.

Flying Horse Carousel is the oldest operating suspended-horse carousel in the United States, dating back to the late 1800s, and a National Historic Landmark.

The carousel is small but easy to spot since there’s usually a Del’s Lemonade pop up here. 

Grab A Bite At St. Clair Annex Inc. 

While strolling through downtown Watch Hill you’ll notice one spot that’s always got a crowd, St. Clair Annex Inc.

This laid-back, family run ice cream and sandwich shop has been serving up delicious comfort food to Watch Hill residents and visitors for over 100 years.

Tip: Be sure to bring cash!

Also check out Olympia Tea Room or Ten Sandwiches for a delicious meal on Bay Street.

Watch For Sailboats & Yachts

The Watch Hill Yacht Club is centrally located just off Bay Street’s main shopping area.

It sits in the calm waters of Watch Hill Cove dotted with sailboats and gorgeous wooden yachts returning from Little Narragansett Bay.

Watching the boats here was one of my favorite activities during our day in Watch Hill.  

Go For A Boat Tour

Ready to hit the water?

Enjoy a a private sailboat or wooden motor yacht while relaxing on Little Narragansett Bay with friends.

You can choose between touring the area or simply doing a quick sunset cruise. No matter how you hit the water this is definitely one of the best things to do in Watch Hill, RI. 

You can book tours through Trim Again or Ocean House .

Interested in sailing lessons? Trim Again offers those as well!

Napatree Point Conservation Area

Just a short walk from Bay Street is the Napatree Point Conservation Area.

The 86 acre preserve is known for beautiful sandy beaches, spectacular views, and impressive bird watching. 

You can hike the full 3.2 mile loop through the park or just go for a short walk along the beach as we did. 

This was one of my favorite things to do in Watch Hill, RI, and best of all? It’s free and open and the public year-round.

Visit Ocean House Hotel

Ocean House is a luxury beachfront hotel in the heart of Watch Hill.

This carefully restored Victorian hotel dates back to 1868 and sets the standard for quality service and luxury amenities.

Whether or not you plan to stay here the hotel’s award winning restaurants and bars are open to visitors. Just remember, there’s a suggested dress code.

Note: Non-guests are not allowed on the Ocean House private beach during summer months. 

Want to check it out but keep things (relatively) casual? Grab a drink on their lawn overlooking the Atlantic Ocean or enjoy crêpes and champagne in the Secret Garden . 

The Ocean House offers valet parking for visitors and hotel guests. Non-guests cannot leave their car here and go to the beach or other Watch Hill attractions though. 

Watch Hill Lighthouse & Museum

The Watch Hill lighthouse has been a nautical point for ships since 1745, making it one of the oldest lighthouses in Rhode Island.

It sits atop a bluff located near Rhode Island’s southernmost tip surrounded by the Watch Hill Passage.

The lighthouse does require a short, 1/4 mile walk along Lighthouse Road. The road is flat and offers beautiful views of the surrounding ocean and mansions.

Vehicles are prohibited on this road except for those with mobility issues, if you need to drive you can find more information on their website . 

The lighthouse itself is open every day of the year from 8 am to sunset. The small museum, which is run by the Watch Hill Lighthouse Keepers Association, has very limited seasonal hours. 

Day Trips From Watch Hill, RI

Watch Hill sits on the Connecticut, Rhode Island border and is surrounded by lovely beach towns.

While visiting enjoy a day trip to one of the nearby popular towns such as: 

• Narragansett, RI
• Newport, RI
• Westerly, RI 
• Fishers Island, NY
• Block Island, RI

Where To Stay In Watch Hill

Watch Hill’s lodging is catered towards luxury travelers, check out the following popular hotels. 

Hotels In Watch Hill:

• Ocean House
• Watch Hill Inn
• Harbour House Inn
• Sandy Shore Motel
• Pleasant View Inn

It’s advantageous to stay at one of the hotels in town. Doing so allows you to walk everywhere and avoid the hassles of finding public parking.  

Hotels Just Outside Of Watch Hill:

• Weekapaug Inn
• The Hotel Maria
• Blue Whale Inn

Additionally, there are a few VRBO’s in the area but those within walking distance of Watch Hill are extremely limited. 

Getting To Watch Hill

The small town of Watch Hill, RI is 50 miles southwest of Providence, RI. Driving between the two locations requires about an hour.

Providence houses the nearest major airport, Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport, which is 43 miles away. 

Westerly State Airport, just 5 miles away, accepts private or chartered planes or  Wings Air  helicopters.

From New Haven, CT Watch Hill is 65 miles east and requires about a 1 hour and 20 minute drive. 

Where To Park In Watch Hill 

Watch Hill has inexpensive but very limited metered spots throughout its small downtown area.

Snagging one of these spots requires arriving early or having some luck.

Unfortunately, the metered spots are limited to 2 hours, spending more time than that in one spot will result in a fine. Be sure to read signs and do not park in spots which require a permit. 

If you plan to spend a full day in Watch Hill you’ll need to use a paid lot. Paid lots are about $20 per day, more on weekends.

Even these spots are limited but the good news is you can reserve a spot in advance. 

Be sure to reserve before you arrive, there’s no same day reservations. You can find more parking information or make reservations through Watch Hill Parking .

Once you’ve parked its easy to get around town by foot for the remainder of the day.

When To Visit Watch Hill

The town is busiest Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day. If you want to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities this time of year is best. 

If you’re looking for a quiet getaway avoid the summer months and instead visit in shoulder seasons such as spring and fall.

Just know it will be too cold for lounging at the beach and some restaurants and shops will be closed.  

As you can see this is a great place to visit thanks to the many fun things to do in the small village of Watch Hill, Rhode Island.

Any questions or additional tips? Please leave a comment below!

If you’d like to follow along with my travels in real time, check out  @seen.by.amy  on Instagram or  @seenbyamy  on TikTok!

Looking for more ideas? Check out my additional Rhode Island and New England guides below or head on over to Ocean House !

More Ideas For Your Rhode Island Vacation:

• Watch Hill, Rhode Island: Day Trip Itinerary
• Newport, Rhode Island Weekend Itinerary
• Newport, Rhode Island Top Things To Do

More Information For Your New England Travels:

• Cape Cod: 4 Day Vacation Itinerary
• Nantucket: Everything To Know About A Day Trip
• Boston, MA: Weekend Guide
• Mystic, Connecticut: The Top Things To Do
• New Hampshire White Mountains: Things To Do
• 9 Day Southern New England Road Trip

More Information For Your East Coast Travels:

• Rehoboth Beach, Delaware: What To Do
• Greenport, New York: The Best Things To Do
• Hamptons Vacation: What To Know Before Booking
• Sag Harbor: The Top Things To Do
• East Hampton, NY: Exciting Things To Do
• Southampton, New York: The Best Things To Do
• Montauk, New York: The Best Things To Do

Hey! I’m Amy, author of this article and owner of this website. I've lived in Denver, Chicago, New York, Utah, and Arizona. I’ve visited almost all 50 states, and traveled in nearly a dozen countries. I enjoy writing about places I've lived and the many incredible destinations I've visited worldwide. My hope is that my love for travel will inspire others to see more of this beautiful planet.

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Loved this article. I think St. Clare’s should have been included for its fabulous homemade ice cream, and The Olympia Tea Room for its yummy puff pastry swan filled with ice cream!

Thanks for the tips!

All you have to do is show up. Find a parking spot and walk along Bay Street and you’ll find everything.

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Raising the Watch Hill Yacht Club

Published on August 29th, 2017 by Editor -->

The Watch Hill Yacht Club in Westerly, RI wanted to increase the size of their facility, so they raised it 15 ft (3ft at deck level, and 12ft for a new ground floor) during a period of 9 months.

To follow the transformation, 3 to 4 cameras were firing for the entire period of September 2016 to June 2017. Two were on the Watch Hill docks (Kippany area) and two on the floating dock post (no dock there during the winter). The cameras were shooting four pictures per hour during daylight during the whole season.

During the actual raising period, the cameras were increased to fire every 10 seconds. Two additional cameras from the construction company (angle from the club entrance) were incorporated as well. The junior sailing and nighttime footage was shot at one frame per second and then sped up.

Tags: epic , Watch Hill Yacht Club

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  Watch Hill Yacht Club

Clubhouse Telephone: (401) 596 - 4986 Business Office Telephone: (401) 348 - 6222 Cabanas: (401) 596 - 9350 The Clubhouse opens May 1st.

Michelle Hogan

General manager.

Michelle has spent the last 16 years working in Club Management, thrilled to be a part of the WHYC. Having spent the last twenty years on Nantucket raising her two children, she is happy to be a part of the WHYC team.

Sergio Cassar

Executive chef.

Sergio began cooking in New York City 1988, working his way up from dishwasher. He loves to experience all types of food and cultures. Over the years, he has learned a lot from his mother about Mexican food, as he has honed his cooking skills. The most important thing to Sergio is his family and he loves to travel.

Debra Morgan

Business office manager.

After raising four children and working in the medical industry for many years, Debra decided she was ready for a change. Outside of work, she teaches yoga classes locally and is also Reiki II Certified. A lover of beaches and sunsets she can be found anywhere outdoors exploring, hiking, kayaking and biking. Debra loves spending time with family and friends and her new puppy, Oliver.

Natalie Sawyer

Junior sailing director.

Natalie spent her summers sailing at the WHYC, in the Junior Sailing Program. Given her connection to this community, she continued as Head Instructor and Director of Junior Sailing, for the past fifteen years while attending The Williams School and Columbia University. Her goal as Director of Junior Sailing is to inspire a lifelong passion for sailing in a fun and safe environment, with dedicated, inspiring instructors, and exciting educational opportunities to broaden classroom experiences.

Gina Rekstis

Dining room manager.

Born in Norwich, and now residing in Westerly, Gina brings warmth and efficiency to the dining room at Watch Hill Yacht Club. With her welcoming smile, Gina greets both members and guests, ensuring everyone feels right at home. As the manager of the dining room, she oversees its operations with precision, maintaining a smooth and enjoyable dining experience for all. Gina's dedication and approachable demeanor make her a valued member of our team.