East Matunuck State Beach

East Matunuck State Beach is a public shore along the Atlantic coast known for strong waves and white sand. The site includes a modern pavilion with showers, restrooms, and food service areas for day visitors.

The beach was established as a state property in 1988, marking the beginning of expanded public access to this stretch of Rhode Island coast. This reflected a broader effort to develop recreational facilities in the South County region.

The beach serves as a social hub where visitors watch surfers riding the waves and families settle into the sand for the day. The open layout and expansive shore encourage different kinds of recreation, from casual picnics to games and sports along the water's edge.

The beach is open from late May through early September and requires a pass for entry. Visitors should arrive early with their gear on sunny weekends since parking fills quickly during peak hours.

From the shore, visitors watch boats moving through the nearby harbor entrance, which offers views into active maritime traffic. A local tradition involves horseback polo played seasonally at a nearby field, adding an unusual recreational element to the area.