9 Reasons Bonnet Shores Is Narragansett’s Best-Kept Secret

More Than Just Another Beach Town

When most people think of Rhode Island beaches, they picture Narragansett Town Beach, Scarborough’s waves, or Newport’s cliff walks. But tucked away in a quieter corner of Narragansett lies a neighborhood that locals cherish and visitors often stumble upon with delight: Bonnet Shores, RI.

Bonnet Shores isn’t flashy. It doesn’t boast the crowds or boardwalk attractions you’ll find at other coastal destinations. Instead, it offers something far more rare: a blend of small-town warmth, natural beauty, and seaside adventure that makes it feel like your own private discovery.

Here’s what we’ll explore in this guide:

• A Rich Coastal History

• The Beach: Your Own Slice of Paradise

• Insider Itinerary: A Perfect Bonnet Shores Day

• A Gateway to Adventure

• Local Eats You’ll Dream About Later

• Seasonal Charm That Lasts All Year

• A Neighborhood That Feels Like Family

• Insider Tips for First-Time Visitors

• The Perfect Place to Stay: Orange Door Rhody

1. A Rich Coastal History

Bonnet Shores has roots that stretch back to the 19th century, when Narragansett began attracting summer visitors from across New England. Originally developed as a summer colony, Bonnet Shores grew into a community where families built cottages that were passed down through generations.

Its shoreline and scenic cove became a summer retreat for those looking to escape city life. Today, many homes still reflect this heritage—cozy, welcoming, and designed for long days by the water.

When you walk the quiet streets, you’re not just passing houses—you’re experiencing a living piece of Rhode Island’s coastal history.

2. The Beach: Your Own Slice of Paradise

Bonnet Shores Beach is the crown jewel of the neighborhood. Unlike the packed parking lots and bustling boardwalks of larger beaches, this sandy stretch feels intimate and serene.

Here’s what makes it special:

• Calm Waters: The cove keeps waves gentle—perfect for families with kids or paddleboarders.

• Breathtaking Views: On a clear day, you can see across Narragansett Bay to Jamestown.

• Golden Sunsets: Evenings bring a sky brushed with pink and orange, best enjoyed with your toes in the sand.

Many visitors describe it as having the beauty of Narragansett’s big-name beaches without the chaos.

3. Insider Itinerary: A Perfect Bonnet Shores Day

To give you a taste, here’s how a day in Bonnet Shores RI might unfold:

• Morning: Start with a walk or jog around the neighborhood loop. Grab coffee from Cool Beans Café before heading to the beach.

• Afternoon: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm cove waters. Break for lunch with clam cakes from Aunt Carrie’s.

• Evening: Take a sunset stroll along the shore, then return “home” for dinner on the deck at Orange Door Rhody.

It’s simple, restorative, and exactly what makes Bonnet Shores so special.

4. A Gateway to Adventure

Bonnet Shores is perfectly placed for day trips and exploration. From here, you can easily:

• Take a ferry to Block Island for biking and beachcombing.

• Head to Newport (30 minutes away) for a historic mansion tour and cliff walk.

• Visit Point Judith for fresh seafood straight off the docks.

• Explore Providence for fine dining or summer WaterFire events.

5. Local Eats You’ll Dream About Later

Rhode Island’s food scene is legendary, and Narragansett is no exception. From Bonnet Shores, you’re close to:

• Champlin’s Seafood Deck – Fresh lobster and harbor views.

• Aunt Carrie’s – Home of the original clam cake.

• George’s of Galilee – Classic seafood on the oceanfront.

• PJ’s Pub – A local favorite for casual bites after the beach.

Craving something sweet? Grab a frozen lemonade from Del’s Lemonade—a true Rhode Island classic.

6. Seasonal Charm That Lasts All Year

Most visitors come in summer, but Bonnet Shores offers beauty in every season:

• Spring: Wildflowers bloom along the coast.

• Summer: Peak beach season, with festivals and sailing.

• Fall: Crisp air and fiery foliage.

• Winter: Quiet shoreline walks and cozy cabin stays.

For a similar year-round escape in the mountains, explore our Orange Door Catskills retreat in upstate New York.

7. A Neighborhood That Feels Like Family

What truly sets Bonnet Shores apart is its sense of community. This isn’t a tourist district—it’s a neighborhood where kids bike freely, neighbors wave hello, and everyone feels welcome.

Visitors often say staying here feels like being “let in” on a secret. It’s authentic, warm, and wonderfully low-key—a refreshing contrast to crowded resort towns.

👉 For more community-based getaways, discover Orange Door Escapes vacation properties.

8. Insider Tips for First-Time Visitors

Want to explore Bonnet Shores like a local? Keep these tips in mind:

• Bring a bike: The neighborhood loop is perfect for cycling.

• Go early or late: Sunrise and sunset are magical at the beach.

• Pack water shoes: Rocky areas around the cove are fun to explore.

• Explore nearby towns: Visit Wickford Village for boutiques or Jamestown for more coastal charm.

For more coastal getaway ideas, check out our Vacation Rental Blog for insider guides and travel inspiration.

9. The Perfect Place to Stay: Orange Door Rhody

To truly experience Bonnet Shores, you need more than a day trip—you need a home base where you can relax and feel like a local.

Just a mile from Bonnet Shores Beach, Orange Door Rhody offers:

• A spacious deck for morning coffee or sunset dinners.

• A cozy living area for post-beach relaxation.

• A fully equipped kitchen for cooking local seafood.

• Comfortable bedrooms and modern amenities.

• A prime location near Narragansett’s restaurants, shops, and attractions.

It’s more than a stay—it’s your gateway to the best of Rhode Island’s coast.

Discover the Hidden Gem of Bonnet Shores

Bonnet Shores isn’t about chasing attractions—it’s about savoring simplicity. Picture walking quiet streets lined with seaside cottages, sharing clam cakes after a swim, or watching golden sunsets from your deck. It’s the kind of place that reminds you what vacations are meant to feel like.

Ready to make it your reality?

☀️ Book your stay at Orange Door Rhody and experience the charm, comfort, and coastal beauty that make Bonnet Shores one of Narragansett’s best-kept secrets.