Newport, Rhode Island’s Ocean Drive is a picturesque 10-mile loop where the grandeur of the Gilded Age meets the raw beauty of the Atlantic. While the entire drive is a feast for the eyes, knowing the perfect spots to pull over and enjoy a meal with a view can elevate your experience from a scenic tour to an unforgettable escape. Pack your picnic basket, because here are six perfect pull-offs along Ocean Drive you’ll want to claim as your own.
King Park Beach
Start your picnic adventure at King Park Beach, a charming and relatively calm spot at the south end of Newport Harbor on Wellington Avenue. This isn’t your typical ocean-facing beach; instead, it offers serene harbor views, with sailboats gliding by and the majestic Newport Pell Bridge arching in the distance. King Park itself is well-equipped for a picnic, boasting ample green space, a playground for the kids, and plenty of picnic tables. It’s a fantastic spot for families looking for a relaxed atmosphere away from the crashing waves. Historically, it’s also the landing site of General Rochambeau during the Revolutionary War, adding a layer of historical significance to your meal. Spread out a blanket on the grass, enjoy the gentle harbor breeze, and watch the maritime activity unfold before you.
King’s Beach (Rocky Shoreline)
Further along Ocean Drive, you’ll encounter King’s Beach, a distinct contrast to King Park Beach. This is not a sandy swimming beach, but rather a rugged, rocky stretch of coastline where the Atlantic truly shows its power. While not ideal for spreading a blanket on sand, it’s a spectacular spot for a “car picnic” or a quick snack while perched on a stable rock. The dramatic landscape here, with its unmanicured beauty and crashing surf, provides a wild backdrop for a meal. It’s a prime location for those who appreciate nature’s raw artistry and seek a more adventurous picnic experience. Remember sturdy shoes are a must if you plan to explore the rocks.
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Green Bridge Pull-off
The area around the picturesque Green Bridge, offers a unique spot for a mini-picnic. This is more of a scenic snack spot from the car more than a sprawling meal area, but the beauty and tranquility of the inlet of Gooseneck Cove is undeniable. It’s a favorite for photographers, and you can capture some truly iconic Newport shots here. Enjoy a sandwich and a drink while admiring this charming piece of local architecture framed by the water and surrounding greenery. It’s a brief but highly rewarding stop for its aesthetic appeal.
Brenton Point State Park
If there’s one essential picnic destination on Ocean Drive, it’s Brenton Point State Park. This expansive park is where Narragansett Bay dramatically converges with the open Atlantic, offering truly panoramic views. With abundant free parking and vast, open grassy areas, it’s an ideal spot to lay out a blanket, set up your picnic spread, and spend hours. The skies here are often dotted with colorful kites flown by visitors, adding to the festive atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of space to spread out, fly your own kite, or simply relax and soak in the majestic ocean vistas. Don’t forget to visit the Portuguese Discovery Monument, a striking tribute to early navigators. Brenton Point combines accessibility with unparalleled natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a memorable outdoor meal.
Castle Hill Lighthouse
For a picnic with a postcard-perfect view, seek out the informal pull-off just before the entrance to the exclusive Castle Hill Inn. Perched gracefully on its rocky promontory, the lighthouse stands as a timeless sentinel, often framed with the distant Newport Pell Bridge. The sheer beauty of the lighthouse against the expansive seascape makes any simple meal feel extraordinary. It’s a quiet and contemplative spot, perfect for soaking in the classic Newport maritime charm.
Fort Adams State Park
As your journey along Ocean Drive nears its end, Fort Adams State Park provides a historical and expansive setting for your final picnic. This massive 19th-century coastal fortification offers not only stunning views of Newport Harbor and the East Passage but also vast green spaces perfect for picnicking. You can set up near the fort’s walls, overlooking the water, or find a spot on one of the many grassy fields. The park features public picnic tables and plenty of room for recreational activities. After your meal, take a self-guided tour of the fort’s grounds, explore its tunnels, or walk the scenic Fort Adams Bay Walk for incredible views of the harbor and the bridge. Fort Adams offers a unique blend of history, expansive views, and ample space for a relaxing and educational picnic outing.
