Walking, hiking, Bird Watching, Bicycling:
welcome the morning hiking at the 250 Acre Sachuest Point National Wildlife
Refuge with miles of hiking trails along the sea. Another thought is the Norman
Bird Sanctuary, which constitutes the largest area of preserved open space in
Newport County. A wildlife refuge encompassing over 300 aces and 7 miles of
trails that wind through a multitude of habitats. Or, join one of the lecture
groups at both locations.
The Sachuest Point Nature Wildlife Refuge (www.friendsnwr-ri.org) is well worth the bicycle trip out to the reserve on Second Beach; one can walk or bike the trails that travel along the rocky coast, enjoy a picnic while taking in the glorious coastal views or maybe sunbathe on the rocks. For the bird watchers, there are numerous rare shore birds, including a red-tailed hawk and a rare resident female Northern Harrer.
Traveling from Second Beach and Sachuset Point past Third Beach, you will arrive at the 300+ acre Norman Bird Sanctuary (www.normanbirdsanctuary.org.) Again, you'll find 7 miles of beautiful trails; take in a lecture or consider summer camp for your child.
One might walk the world famous Ocean Cliff Walk, considered one of the most
spectacular walks in America.
You can find information about the Cliff Walk at www.CliffWalk.com; other points of interest include the Newport Harbor Walk (www.NewportHarborWalk.com), and Ten Mile Drive, (www.TenMileDrive.com). All three sites are oparated by the non-profit organization "Friends of the Waterfront", whose ethos is to preserve historical uses of the harbor, rights of way, and maximize public access to the water. The famous Cliff Walk is one of the most beautiful walks in the county. It has been designated a National Recreation Trail.
For the individual with fitness on their mind, you'll greet the day with an
early morning bike ride around the Ocean Drive. This eleven-mile trip is, once
again, considered one of the most beautiful rides in the country. Lunch is a
gourmet picnic packed to be enjoyed at some special spot along this spectacular
coast. For the less adventurous... straight out the door you’re looking at
beautiful Narragansett Bay. You will start your morning stroll along the marinas
to Goat Island, then returning to the Captain Simeon Potter House for a
delicious breakfast of your choice. Or sit in the park-like setting and enjoy
the idyllic and breathtaking view resting and relaxing.
Beaches, Windsurfing, and Kayaking:
Many fine beaches are just 10 minutes away; for just basking on some lost
little beach. Let us help you find your little beach. Kayaking is a great way
to experience the coast or the harbor.
Newport's Best Shopping:
Newport was not only a seafaring city, but also the colonial capital of
Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. Narragansett Bay, and one of the few
deep-water ports on the east coast, as well as a major seaport for commerce and
trade. The olde New England seaport plan of one long street (Thames St.) along
the water and the wharves would develop into the commercial center of the city.
Today's shopping can be as simple as looking for a sun hat to a mission for
antiques.
Start your walk in the historic Brick Market in Washington Square... staying
essentially on Thames Street; heading south, browse through the wonderfully
charming little shops. Explore the cobblestone side streets and meander Bowen's
and Bannister's Wharves. With pedestrian friendly streets with outdoor
restaurants, allow yourself to experience the charm of this old seaport.