Spots Nearby
-
Second Beach:
0.2 km
-
First Beach:
2.6 km
-
Easton's Beach:
2.7 km
-
Bonnet Shores Point:
13.3 km
-
Horseneck Beach:
14.4 km
-
Point Judith:
23.2 km
-
Point Judith Lighthouse:
23.7 km
-
Mantunuck:
26.5 km
-
East Beach Lighthouse:
53.8 km
-
Napatree Jetty:
54.2 km
-
General Information
Level:8-10 Season:May 1 — August 31 -
While walking amongst the great Newport mansions in all of their gilded glory, you might notice Ruggles beach. This is probably the most well known beach in all of Rhode Island, because it serves up some good wave and wind conditions in the summer months. And though the good days don’t happen all that often in New England waters, it’s best to check out what Ruggles has to offer. In addition, this beach is a hotspot for catamaran sailors.
-
Beach
-
The beach, located directly under a large cliff, faces east into the Rhode Island Sound.
-
Wind&Waves
-
The southern swell creates a hard right that takes surfers right out into the sound, and contains waist high to overhead waves. Although these waves aren’t hollow, they allow surfers to do some excellent carving. Ideal conditions occur from July to August, but unfortunately, you will have to compete for space with the beachgoers who flock here to enjoy the 70 F water temperatures. Wind conditions during the summer season are around 9 mph .
-
Facilities
-
You can access Ruggles along Hanging Rock Road in Newport. Paid parking is available during the summer season. Newport has many restaurants and hotels (it is a major tourist destination) but this place is expensive. Find cheaper options in surrounding towns or even in Providence. The better surf shops are also located in Providence. When not on the water, why not visit the mansions of Newport? These historical landmarks show the decadence of America’s rich elite during the first half of the 19th century.
-
Safety
-
There is nothing major to be too careful of, but just practise caution as you would at any beach.