Sailing Newport photo courtesy of pshutterbug on Flickr
As the smallest of all fifty states – just 48 miles “long” by 37 miles wide – it’s surprising to many that Rhode Island offers more than 400 miles of coastline. But it is afterall nicknamed ‘The Ocean State’ with good reason.
When the summer months finally roll around each year, throngs of locals and tourists flock to the shores. Newport in particular is the state’s hub of summer activity and it’s no surprise as there’s quite literally an entire season’s worth of activities to experience.
Relax by the Ocean at Castle Hill Inn
Neatly tucked at the end of famous Ocean Drive, Castle Hill Inn is a picture-perfect example of a luxurious, oceanfront New England Inn. One of the greatest warm weather joys in the whole of Rhode Island is wiling away a few hours – or an entire day – on the lawn at Castle Hill Inn.
Choose your favorite adirondack chairs and settle in for the afternoon. The hotel’s waitstaff is happy to serve anything from the bar, but I highly recommend a local Newport Storm. Be sure to bring your camera as hundreds of vintage sailboats and stunning yachts pass by every day. Don’t miss a walk down to the charming Castle Hill Lighthouse, accessible via a short footpath just off the hotel’s back lawn.
Sail Aboard a Former America’s Cup Yacht
With a long history as one of the world’s premier sailing centers, Newport offers visitors a wealth of boating-related experiences. If you love sailing in particular, or have ever wanted to try your hand at playing “deckhand”, now’s your chance!
Jump aboard a 70-foot, racing yacht formerly used in the America’s Cup for a unique, once-in-a-lifetime sailing experience in Newport. On this two-hour tour, visitors will view a number of popular sights such as Fort Adams, Newport Pell Bridge, the Rose Island Lighthouse and the New York Yacht Club. Perhaps the best part is that no previous sailing experience is necessary.
Experience the Newport Jazz Festival
One of the world’s premier music festivals occurs every year right in Rhode Island. This August, the Newport Jazz Festival celebrates its 60th anniversary at Fort Adams State Park. Even casual fans of jazz will appreciate the festival’s long, impressive history, as past performers have included such greats as Billie Holiday, Bob Dylan and Frank Sinatra.
Visitors arrive from all over the world, prepared to enjoy every minute of the three-day festival. It’s among the state’s largest and most popular events with more than 45 jazz sets on three stages. Confirmed performers for 2014 include Bobby McFerrin, Wynton Marsalis, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue.
See all that Boston has to offer with these tours!
-Contributed by Mike Richard