Official State of Rhode Island website

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State of Rhode Island, Rhode Island State Parks ,

Roger W. Wheeler State Beach

This popular beach has fine white sand, calm water, and a very slight drop-off.

Project Notice

A construction project is currently underway at Roger Wheeler State Beach to construct a boardwalk and upgrade the bulkhead. While construction will pause during the 2025 beach season, visitors can expect a smaller beach area with sections of beach being rocky. Beach access will be available at both ends of the parking lot, with most visitors entering through the pavilion. Thank you for your patience as we work to enhance your beach experience for the future. 

Roger W. Wheeler State Beach

Protected from Block Island Sound by an extensive breakwater barrier, this is a popular beach for young children and families due to the gentle surf and modern beach pavilion with food concessions and a kid-friendly environmental educational area. Be sure to plan and purchase your parking pass ahead of time so you can use the express lane! Check the status of the parking lot here.

Often referred to locally as Sand Hill Cove, Roger W. Wheeler State Beach was renamed in August 1970 to recognize Captain Roger W. Wheeler (1907-1969), the creator of the Rhode Island State Life-Saving System. Without a cadre of life guards at the beaches, who promoted safe swimming practices, the public use of our coastal waters would have amounted to little more than an “attractive nuisance.” Trained, alert, and capable life guards have prevented many family tragedies over the years.

Beach More, Wait Less Logo

2025 Season Notices

All state beaches are open daily for the beach season through Labor Day, except Roger Wheeler which will open starting June 14.  Get your season pass online at https://beachparkingri.com.

In-person purchases of season passes are available at a new LAZ office at Fishermen’s Memorial State Park & Campground (1011 Point Judith Rd, Narragansett). Office hours are weekdays from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM and Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The office is closed on Sundays and holidays.  

Note:  School Groups and Summer Camps must apply for a Special Use Permit and only specific beaches are available for these group trips.  Please contact RI State Park Headquarters via email or (401)-667-6200 at least 30 days before your intended visit. 

Saturday, July 26: The parking lot at Salty Brine State Beach in Narragansett will be temporarily closed during the Narragansett Lions Club’s 52nd annual Blessing of the Fleet celebration and will reopen after 1PM. The beach will remain open.

Amenities & Experiences

Naturalist

During the beach season you’ll find public restrooms, outdoor showers, wheelchair accessibility, large parking lot, playground, food and gift concessions, lifeguard tower, shade gazebos, and Naturalist area.

  • Swimming
  • Picnicking
  • Playground
  • Accessible Beach Wheelchairs Available
  • Saltwater Fishing (off-hours only)
  • Shaded Pavilion
  • Outdoor Showers
  • Heated Indoor Showers
  • Accessible Restroom Facilities
  • Environmental Education (Naturalist) Area
  • Limited Bus Parking for School Outings/Camps with Special Use Permit

Know Before You Go

Roger W. Wheeler State Beach

In-Season Hours & Parking: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday - Friday and 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM on weekends & holidays. Gates close at sunset. Check the capacity of the parking lot.

Restrictions: No alcohol, glass, dogs/pets, smoking, RV camping, or tent camping allowed. Roger Wheeler State Beach is day-use only.

Concessions: Salty's Burger & Seafood is open daily during the beach season.

Lifeguard on duty 9:00 AM (8:30 AM weekends/holidays) to 6:00 PM (Seasonal)

Tide Chart: View local tides and surf conditions. Break the grip of the rip! Learn about rip currents.

History of Roger Wheeler State Beach

Roger W. Wheeler State Beach

The first State Beach, Sand Hill Cove in Narragansett, was a state property for nearly a century and a half before being transferred by the Rhode Island Secretary of State to the Metropolitan Park Commission in 1929. More history

Contact Roger W. Wheeler State Beach

Narragansett

Location: 100 Sand Hill Cove Road
Get Directions

State Beach Parking Passes:
ribeaches@lazparking.com

(401) 789-8374

District Manager:
Robert Henninger

Mailing Address:
Fishermen’s Memorial State Park, Route 108, Narragansett, RI 02882

A painted rock reads, "Come on in!" in front of a naturalist cabin

RI Parks Naturalist Program

Explore the wild side of Rhode Island, from jellyfish to earthworms, snakes, and coyotes, to exploring geology, migration, botany, and so much more. RI State Parks' Naturalist Program offers diverse environmental education to people of all ages.

Learn more

State Beach Parking

Headed to a state beach? Check here for the real-time status of state beach parking lots. Remember, season beach parking passes are not available for purchase at beach entrances. Help reduce traffic delays by buying your season pass online.