Roy Carpenter's Beach

Roy Carpenter's Beach is a private beach in Matunuck that stretches along the Atlantic coastline with sand and scattered rocks visible both in the water and on shore. The seafloor drops steeply close to the waterline, creating strong currents that define its swimming character.

The beach community began after the 1938 hurricane when Roy Carpenter leased land and created parking and accommodation spaces for visitors. This foundation grew into the residential settlement that exists today.

The beach hosts a tight-knit community of summer residents whose families have owned cottages here for generations. This sense of continuity and belonging shapes how the place feels throughout the seasons.

Lifeguards are present during the summer season from late May through early September, and surfing and boogie boarding are permitted at both ends of the beach. Swimmers should be prepared for strong currents that make the water conditions demanding.

The water drops off sharply within just a few feet of entering, creating swimming conditions that surprise many first-time visitors. This steep underwater slope combined with strong currents makes the site notably different from gentler coastal beaches in the region.

Location: Rhode Island

Address: Roy Carpenter's Beach, South Kingstown, RI 02879, USA

GPS coordinates: 41.37265,-71.56063

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:22