Little Compton, Coastal town in Newport County, Rhode Island, United States.
Description
Little Compton is a coastal town in Rhode Island with rolling farmland, stone walls, and five beaches along the Atlantic. The landscape combines rural character with seaside access and preserves much of its traditional appearance.
History
The Sakonnet people first lived in the area before English settlers arrived from Massachusetts in 1659 and established a colonial settlement. This founding shaped the town's layout and agricultural traditions that endure today.
Culture
The town center brings together a church, school, library, and town offices around a shared commons, a rare arrangement that still shapes how locals and visitors experience community life. This layout reflects how New England towns were originally designed to keep public life centered in one place.
Practical
The easiest access to South Shore Beach and Goosewing Beach is by car from the main road, with parking available at both locations. Visit in warmer months when outdoor activities like hiking and farmers markets are most active.
Did you know?
The town's population roughly doubles during summer months when visitors arrive, creating a distinct rhythm between quiet winters and busy summers. This seasonal cycle remains central to how locals experience and organize their community year.
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Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge
6.6 km
Norman Bird Sanctuary
7 km
Stone House Inn
4.1 kmFort Church
2.7 km
Rhode Island Red Monument
6.8 km
Sakonnet Light
6 km
Wilbor House
1.7 km
Little Compton Common Historic District
1.1 km
William Whalley Homestead
4.9 km
Greenvale Farm
7 km
Stonybrook Estate Historic District
6.2 km
First Baptist Church of Tiverton
7.2 km
Fogland Beach
7.7 kmSmith-Gardiner-Norman Farm Historic District
7 km
Lloyd's Beach
5.2 kmHorseneck Beach
7.1 kmNavy Beach
6.7 kmLittle Compton Historic District
1.1 kmPeckham Beach
5.8 km
Warren's Point Beach
4.4 kmThird Beach
6.7 km
Friends Meeting House and Cemetery
3.7 kmSakonnet Golf Club
3.3 kmAcoaxet Club
5.1 kmObservation Tower
6.7 kmObservation Tower
6.2 kmObservation Platform
6.3 kmScenic viewpoint
6.1 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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