Third Beach sits just east of Sachuest Point in Middletown, and offers gentle, Sakonnet-facing surf that rarely tops a foot—perfect for toddlers mastering their first dog-paddle or adults out for a sunrise SUP session. Unlike bustling Easton’s or the surfer-heavy western end of Second Beach, this crescent of sand trades carnival energy for birdsong and bobbing dinghies. Water-quality advisories are rare; the RIDOH dashboard shows no closures here during the 2024 season and none so far in 2025.
Calm, Kid-Sized Surf
Because Third Beach hugs Third Beach Harbor rather than the open Atlantic, breakers are minimal even on breezy days. The boat ramp at the north end doubles as a launch for kayaks and paddleboards, while a town-managed kayak rack makes long-term storage possible for residents lucky enough to clear the wait-list Families set up just down-wind of the ramp to watch sailors fiddle with sheets as ospreys patrol overhead.
Resident-Only Parking 101
Since 2024 every space in the two Third Beach lots—and in the adjacent “boat-ramp” strip—has been restricted to vehicles displaying a Middletown resident season pass. Non-residents who want to stay the day must park at the main Second Beach lot and pay $25 on weekdays or $35 on weekends and holidays under the fee schedule adopted May 30 2024. Walk-ons, cyclists, and rideshare drop-offs remain free of charge.
Longing for a trip to Newport? Check out hotel availability here!
Trails, Wildlife & Education
Just inland, 325-acre Norman Bird Sanctuary celebrates its 75th anniversary with 2025 programs such as sunset concerts on July 18 and guided geology hikes to famous Hanging Rock. Farther south, the 242-acre Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge begins where the beach ends; including the 1.5-mile Ocean View Loop.
Plan Your Day
- Lifeguards & restrooms: Guards staff the swim zone 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Memorial-Day-to-Labor-Day; portable toilets sit at both lots.
- Dogs: Leashed dogs are welcome 5:00–7:45 a.m. May 1–Sept 30 and sunrise–sunset the rest of the year.
- Gear & food: There’s no concession stand, so pack a cooler (remember: “carry-in, carry-out” trash rules apply).
- Getting there without a sticker: Ride-share drivers can legally drop at the boat-ramp turnaround; from Second Beach it’s an easy 0.7-mile shoreline stroll at mid-tide or a shaded bike ride along Sachuest Point Road.
- Stay for sunset: The harbor glows peach and gold, and on still evenings you’ll hear the bell buoy off the Sakonnet River channel.
Third Beach isn’t Newport’s flashiest strand—that’s its super-power. Bring a kite and a field guide, linger over tide-pool hermit crabs, and savor a rare New England beach day that still feels like your own secret.
