Ocean Drive: 5 Stops on Newport’s Most Scenic Drive

Newport is a city where every turn offers a postcard-perfect view, and nowhere is this more evident than along Ocean Drive. Often affectionately known by locals as the “Ten Mile Drive” or simply “The Drive,” this iconic coastal route spans approximately 10 miles along the southern coastline of Aquidneck Island. It promises an undeniably tranquil journey filled with breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, glimpses of magnificent Gilded Age mansions, and stunning natural landscapes.  

Visitors can embark on this scenic adventure from a couple of convenient starting points. For those closer to downtown Newport, the journey typically begins at the intersection of Thames Street and Wellington Avenue. This starting point immediately immerses travelers in Newport’s vibrant harbor scene, with sailboats dotting the water and the Ida Lewis and New York Yacht Clubs visible on the right. Alternatively, if approaching from the direction of the famous Newport Mansions, one can start at the very end of Bellevue Avenue, where it meets Ocean Avenue and Coggeshall Avenue. This flexibility in starting points allows visitors to tailor their experience based on their current location or their initial interests, whether they are drawn more to the nautical charm or the opulent architecture that defines Newport.  

Ocean Drive is more than just a picturesque route for a leisurely drive; it’s a dynamic corridor for numerous outdoor activities. It is widely considered one of the best spots in Newport for invigorating bike rides, refreshing runs, and playful kite-flying. The expansive green spaces along the drive also make it ideal for picnicking, while the coastal waters offer opportunities for fishing and even scuba diving. The fact that Ocean Drive is free and open to the public further enhances its appeal as an accessible hub for recreation and relaxation. For an especially memorable experience, visitors are encouraged to roll down their car windows to fully immerse themselves in the soothing sounds of rippling waves meeting the shoreline. But rolling down of the windows should not be the extent of your interaction along the drive. Pull over your car, get out and explore everything you pass by!

Stop 1: Fort Adams State Park

Nestled strategically at the mouth of Newport Harbor, Fort Adams State Park provides an exceptional panoramic view of both the bustling harbor and the expansive East Passage of Narragansett Bay. This historic 19th-century fortress boasts a rich military past, having served the U.S. Army for over a century before it was officially deeded to the State of Rhode Island in 1965. Its transformation from a defensive stronghold into a vibrant public space showcases Newport’s remarkable ability to adapt its historical assets for contemporary community engagement and tourism.  

Today, Fort Adams is a dynamic hub offering a wide array of activities that extend far beyond its historical tours. Visitors can delve into the fort’s past with a guided tour, which provides a comprehensive overview of its history, intricate design, and ongoing restoration efforts, leading guests from the top of the fort’s walls to the depths of its underground tunnels. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, self-guided tours are available, offering access to the sprawling 6.5-acre parade field, a restored north overlook with stunning views, and original cannons, all enhanced by a convenient mobile app.  

Beyond its historical significance, the park is a lively recreational area. It’s a popular spot for saltwater bathing, fishing, boating, and offers expansive playing fields for sports like soccer and rugby, along with numerous picnic tables. The 2.5-mile Fort Adams Bay Walk, a loop around the park’s perimeter, is a particular highlight, offering unmatched views of Newport Harbor, the iconic Newport Bridge, and the wider bay, especially captivating during sunset. The park is also renowned as the long-standing home of the legendary Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals, which draw crowds from across the globe. The presence of ample free parking and convenient public restroom facilities makes Fort Adams State Park exceptionally accessible and user-friendly, encouraging visitors to spend more time exploring its diverse offerings.  

• Visitor Information:
  • Address: Harrison Avenue, Newport, RI 02840  
  • Website: For detailed hours and information, visit www.fortadams.org.  
  • Activities: Guided and self-guided tours of the historic fort, Fort Adams Bay Walk, picnicking, fishing, boating, soccer, rugby, and other field sports.  
  • Amenities: Picnic tables, fishing pier, canoe/kayak launch, pet-friendly areas, and restroom facilities.  
  • Special Events: Host to the famous Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals.  

Stop 2: Hammersmith Farm

Continuing along Ocean Drive, visitors will pass Hammersmith Farm, an estate steeped in American history and often referred to as the “Summer White House” during John F. Kennedy’s presidency. This impressive 28-room mansion and 50-acre estate, originally built in 1887, holds a particularly special place in the hearts of many as the childhood home of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy. It was also the picturesque setting for her wedding reception to John F. Kennedy in 1953.

While Hammersmith Farm exudes immense historical significance and offers beautiful vistas of Narragansett Bay and formal gardens, it is important for visitors to note its current accessibility status. Hammersmith Farm is now privately owned and not open to the public for interior tours. However, its presence along Ocean Drive ensures that its beauty and historical context can still be appreciated. Many narrated bus tours of Ocean Drive will point out Hammersmith Farm as they pass by, sharing its fascinating history and allowing passengers to catch a glimpse of the iconic estate from the road. Some boat tours may also offer views of the stunning grounds and the sweeping Narragansett Bay vistas from the water.

• Visitor Information:
  • Address: Harrison Avenue, Newport, Rhode Island  
  • Historical Significance: Childhood home of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis; site of John F. Kennedy and Jackie’s wedding reception in 1953. Known as the “Summer White House” during JFK’s presidency.  
  • Public Access: Hammersmith Farm is privately owned and not open for public tours of the interior. It can be viewed from Ocean Drive or from certain boat tours.  

Stop 3: Brenton Point State Park

As the scenic journey along Ocean Drive continues, travelers will encounter Brenton Point State Park on their left, an expansive 89-acre site that beautifully encapsulates the rugged charm of Newport’s coastline. This remarkable park marks the dramatic juncture where the sheltered waters of Narragansett Bay meet the powerful, surging Atlantic Ocean, offering some of the most commanding and spectacular views found anywhere on the East Coast.  

Brenton Point State Park is an ideal destination for a leisurely break and a wide array of outdoor activities. It’s a favorite spot for picnicking, with ample space to lay out a blanket and enjoy the refreshing ocean breezes. The park is particularly famous as a premier kite-flying destination, with its expansive open spaces and consistent coastal winds providing perfect conditions for soaring kites. Beyond these popular pastimes, visitors can also engage in bird watching, saltwater fishing, or simply relax and immerse themselves in the majestic ocean views. For those looking to cool off on a warm day, there are accessible paths leading down to the rocky shoreline, offering spots for sunbathing and even a refreshing dip in the water. However, it’s important to exercise caution, as the New England waters can be quite cold unless it’s August or September, and the rocks can be very slippery.  

A notable feature within the park is the striking Portuguese Discovery Monument, a tribute to the navigators who played a pivotal role in maritime history. The park’s accessibility is a significant advantage: visitors can enjoy free parking and utilize public restrooms, which are typically available from May 1st to October 31st. Adding to the local charm, the iconic Del’s Lemonade truck often makes an appearance, offering a refreshing treat to park-goers. Whether visitors choose to sit on a bench, explore the tidal pools, or simply watch the waves crash against the shore, Brenton Point State Park provides a versatile and cost-free opportunity to connect with Newport’s natural beauty.  

• Visitor Information:
  • Address: Ocean Drive, Newport, RI 02840  
  • Activities: Picnicking, kite flying, sightseeing, birding, saltwater fishing, walking, running, and photography.  
  • Amenities: Picnic tables, restroom facilities (May 1-Oct 31), and pet-friendly areas.  
  • Parking: Free parking is available.  

Stop 4: Castle Hill Inn & Lighthouse

Perched gracefully at the entrance to the East Passage of Narragansett Bay, the Castle Hill Inn & Resort stands as a beacon of luxury, and its adjacent lighthouse is a cherished Newport landmark. The unique granite Castle Hill Lighthouse, first illuminated in 1890, serves as a vital guide for mariners navigating these waters and presents an exceptionally picturesque scene.  

While the lighthouse itself is not open for interior tours, its surrounding grounds, which are part of the expansive Castle Hill Inn & Resort property, are generally accessible to the public year-round. This arrangement offers a wonderful opportunity for visitors to experience a slice of Newport’s high-end charm without requiring an overnight stay. Public parking is conveniently available at Castle Hill Cove Marina, and a well-marked trail leads directly from the parking area to the lighthouse, making it an easy and rewarding walk. This blending of a luxurious private establishment with public access to a significant historical landmark allows for different levels of engagement, catering to various visitor preferences.  

The Castle Hill Inn itself is a sophisticated Relais & Châteaux property, sprawling across 40 magical acres with half a mile of pristine coastline. For those seeking an elevated experience, the Inn’s dining options are legendary. The Lawn Terrace, in particular, offers light-hearted alfresco meals with truly spectacular ocean views and a charming ambiance, making it a highly sought-after spot for lunch, dinner, or a delightful Sunday brunch, often accompanied by live music.

• Visitor Information:
  • Address: 590 Ocean Drive, Newport, RI 02840 (for the Inn)  
  • Lighthouse Access: The lighthouse itself is not open, but its grounds, adjacent to the Castle Hill Inn & Resort, are generally open to the public.  
  • Parking: Public parking is available at Castle Hill Cove Marina, with a trail leading to the lighthouse.  
  • Dining: The Lawn Terrace at Castle Hill Inn offers lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch with spectacular ocean views. Reservations are recommended.  

Stop 5: Gooseberry Beach

As Ocean Drive winds towards its conclusion, visitors will encounter Gooseberry Beach, a beloved summertime spot nestled within a tranquil cove. This beach is particularly cherished for its calm waters and minimal waves, creating an ideal environment for families with young children or anyone seeking a peaceful and relaxing day by the sea. Its sheltered location provides a quiet alternative to more active surf beaches in the area.  

While Gooseberry Beach is indeed open to the public, there are specific access guidelines that visitors should be aware of to ensure a smooth visit. Direct walk-on access to the beach is generally prohibited. Instead, visitors are required to arrive by bicycle, scooter, or by purchasing a daily parking pass if they come by car. Daily parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis and costs $30 per car (for up to 5 people), with management reserving the right to close the lot to daily visitors at any time if capacity is reached. For cyclists, a season bike pass is $100, while individual bike or scooter access costs $10. This structured access helps manage crowds and maintain the beach’s serene atmosphere.  

Lifeguards are on duty daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (during the summer), ensuring a safe swimming environment. The beach also offers convenient amenities, including a snack bar that operates from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM (weather permitting and cash only), public restrooms, showers, and rentals for beach chairs and umbrellas. It is important to note that the beach club facilities are reserved exclusively for members. To maintain the peaceful and family-friendly environment, certain activities are prohibited, including alcohol consumption, pets (except service animals), grilling, motorized watercraft, open fires, spearfishing, and large tents (small infant tents are allowed).

• Visitor Information:
  • Address: 130 Ocean Avenue, Newport, RI  
  • Public Access: Open to the public, but walk-on access is prohibited; visitors must arrive by bike, scooter, or car with a parking pass.  
  • Amenities: Lifeguards (seasonal, 9am-5pm), snack bar (cash only, 11am-5pm weather permitting), restrooms, showers, and beach chair & umbrella rentals.  
  • Parking: Daily parking is $30 per car (not exceeding 5 people), first-come, first-served. Season bike pass $100, bikes/e-bikes/scooters $10.  
  • Website: gooseberrybeach.com