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Scenic drive · Newport, Rhode Island
Ocean Drive
A roughly 16 km road along the rocky southern coast of Newport, between coves, summer houses and Brenton Point State Park, where many people fly kites over the sea.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Ocean Drive
Ocean Drive is the name of the roughly 16 km route that starts at the end of Bellevue Avenue and skirts the southern tip of Aquidneck Island, returning along the harbor shore to downtown. The road follows the rugged coastline, passing salt ponds, rocks and summer properties, many of them built in the late 19th century.
The best-known spot is Brenton Point State Park, on a headland open to the sea at the far southwest of the island. The lawn is used for picnics and kite flying, with the constant Atlantic wind, and the rocks at the water’s edge are popular for watching the sunset and the entrance to Narragansett Bay.
Along the road there are small beaches and coves, and on the bay side is Hammersmith Farm, a former summer estate. The area, protected as a historic district, retains a landscape of fields and stone walls.
The road can be traveled by car, by bicycle or on sightseeing buses. The natural continuation is Fort Adams, at the entrance to the harbor.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 40 minutes by car without stops; two to three hours by bike or with stops.
Best time
Late afternoon, to watch the sunset at Brenton Point, and on windy days when kites fill the sky. On summer weekends, traffic becomes slow.
How to get there
It starts at the end of Bellevue Avenue, about 4 km from downtown. You need a car or bicycle; there are bike rentals downtown. Brenton Point Park has parking and does not charge admission.
Tip
When cycling, go with traffic and pay attention: the shoulder is narrow in some stretches. Bring a jacket for the sunset, because it’s very windy at Brenton Point.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Ocean Drive
How long is Ocean Drive in Newport?
About 16 km, from the end of Bellevue Avenue to downtown, skirting the southern tip of the island.
Where to see the sunset in Newport?
At Brenton Point State Park, on Ocean Drive, facing the entrance to Narragansett Bay.
Can you do Ocean Drive by bicycle?
Yes, there are bicycle rentals in the town center. The route has gentle climbs and sections with narrow road shoulders; ride with attention to traffic.