Explore the Waterways of Rhode Island
Rhode Island, known as the "Ocean State," is the smallest state in the United States by land area, but it has a significant maritime presence due to its extensive coastline and numerous waterways. Here's a description of the primary waterways in Rhode Island:
1. Narragansett Bay: Narragansett Bay is the defining feature of Rhode Island's geography, stretching approximately 30 miles from Providence in the north to Newport in the south. It is a large estuary that provides a sheltered harbor and a key shipping channel. Narragansett Bay is a hub for recreational boating, sailing, fishing, and water sports. It includes several islands, such as Aquidneck Island (home to Newport and Middletown) and Conanicut Island (home to Jamestown). The bay is known for its stunning coastal scenery and historic lighthouses.
2. Providence River: The Providence River is a tidal river that flows into Narragansett Bay, passing through the city of Providence. It plays a central role in the capital city's urban landscape, with waterfront parks, restaurants, and recreational opportunities. Waterfire, an acclaimed art installation featuring a series of bonfires on the river, is a popular attraction in downtown Providence.
3. Pawtuxet River: The Pawtuxet River flows through the cities of Cranston and Warwick, eventually emptying into Narragansett Bay. It is a smaller river that offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, particularly in the Pawtuxet Village area.
4. Blackstone River: The Blackstone River and its tributaries flow through the northern part of the state, including Woonsocket and Pawtucket. The Blackstone River Valley is known for its industrial history and is often referred to as the "Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution." Visitors can explore the Blackstone River Bikeway and the Slater Mill Historic Site.
5. Salt Ponds and Coastal Lagoons: Rhode Island's coastline is dotted with salt ponds and coastal lagoons, including Point Judith Pond, Ninigret Pond, and Potter Pond. These water bodies offer sheltered areas for boating, clamming, and birdwatching.
6. Atlantic Ocean: Rhode Island has about 400 miles of tidal shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean, featuring sandy beaches, rocky shores, and picturesque coastal landscapes. Popular beach destinations include Misquamicut Beach, Scarborough State Beach, and Narragansett Town Beach. The state's coastline also provides excellent opportunities for surfing, swimming, and saltwater fishing.
7. Islands: Rhode Island is home to several islands, including Block Island, Prudence Island, and Conanicut Island. Block Island, located about 12 miles south of the mainland, is a popular summer destination known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and sandy beaches.
Rhode Island's waterways, combined with its maritime heritage and coastal communities, make it a haven for boaters, sailors, anglers, and beachgoers. The state's relatively small size means that the ocean and bay are never far away, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy a variety of aquatic and coastal experiences throughout the year.
1. Narragansett Bay: Narragansett Bay is the defining feature of Rhode Island's geography, stretching approximately 30 miles from Providence in the north to Newport in the south. It is a large estuary that provides a sheltered harbor and a key shipping channel. Narragansett Bay is a hub for recreational boating, sailing, fishing, and water sports. It includes several islands, such as Aquidneck Island (home to Newport and Middletown) and Conanicut Island (home to Jamestown). The bay is known for its stunning coastal scenery and historic lighthouses.
2. Providence River: The Providence River is a tidal river that flows into Narragansett Bay, passing through the city of Providence. It plays a central role in the capital city's urban landscape, with waterfront parks, restaurants, and recreational opportunities. Waterfire, an acclaimed art installation featuring a series of bonfires on the river, is a popular attraction in downtown Providence.
3. Pawtuxet River: The Pawtuxet River flows through the cities of Cranston and Warwick, eventually emptying into Narragansett Bay. It is a smaller river that offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, particularly in the Pawtuxet Village area.
4. Blackstone River: The Blackstone River and its tributaries flow through the northern part of the state, including Woonsocket and Pawtucket. The Blackstone River Valley is known for its industrial history and is often referred to as the "Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution." Visitors can explore the Blackstone River Bikeway and the Slater Mill Historic Site.
5. Salt Ponds and Coastal Lagoons: Rhode Island's coastline is dotted with salt ponds and coastal lagoons, including Point Judith Pond, Ninigret Pond, and Potter Pond. These water bodies offer sheltered areas for boating, clamming, and birdwatching.
6. Atlantic Ocean: Rhode Island has about 400 miles of tidal shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean, featuring sandy beaches, rocky shores, and picturesque coastal landscapes. Popular beach destinations include Misquamicut Beach, Scarborough State Beach, and Narragansett Town Beach. The state's coastline also provides excellent opportunities for surfing, swimming, and saltwater fishing.
7. Islands: Rhode Island is home to several islands, including Block Island, Prudence Island, and Conanicut Island. Block Island, located about 12 miles south of the mainland, is a popular summer destination known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and sandy beaches.
Rhode Island's waterways, combined with its maritime heritage and coastal communities, make it a haven for boaters, sailors, anglers, and beachgoers. The state's relatively small size means that the ocean and bay are never far away, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy a variety of aquatic and coastal experiences throughout the year.
Water Temperature and Weather by Waterway in Rhode Island
Atlantic Ocean, New Shoreham, RI
Bear Tree Brook, Clayville, RI
Great Harbor, North Kingstown, RI
Huntinghouse Brook, Scituate, RI