Washington County

Washington County extends across southern Rhode Island and comprises nine municipalities, including South Kingstown, Narragansett, and Westerly located along the Atlantic coast. The area combines coastal towns with harbors and beaches alongside inland regions with farmland and forests.

The area was established in 1729 and took its name from George Washington, who would later become the first President of the United States. This naming reflects the deep historical ties between this region and the founding of the American nation.

Fishing communities line the coast and shape how people here live and work, while farming continues in the inland areas. You can see these traditions in the working harbors and agricultural land throughout the region.

South Kingstown serves as the administrative center and is a good starting point for exploring the county. The area is easily accessible by car with road connections to coastal and inland communities throughout the region.

Block Island sits offshore and is only reachable by ferry from Point Judith in Narragansett, where you can explore beaches and nature reserves year-round. This remote island offers a very different experience from the mainland and attracts visitors seeking quieter getaways.

Location: Rhode Island

Inception: 1729

Capital city: South Kingstown

Shares border with: Kent County, Newport County, New London County, Suffolk County, Northeastern Connecticut Planning Region, Southeastern Connecticut Planning Region

GPS coordinates: 41.45454,-71.58115

Latest update: December 13, 2025 15:45