Indulge in the perfect old-fashioned beach day with a stop at the merry-go-round followed by wading in this gorgeous swimming hole in Rhode Island. While we have no shortage of Rhode Island swimming holes we can head to to stay cool, Watch Hill Beach just might be the state’s most unique. If it’s not already on your bucket list, you might want to add it – and put it right at the top.

Join the whole family in a one-of-a-kind beach day at Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round & Beach in Westerly. It’s sure to stir memories of beach trips during childhood.

Trip Advisor/UKGrandej

One of the highlights of this breathtaking beach is the merry-go-round, the oldest in the United States. Kiddos love the seasonal carousel, a fun prelude to the perfect beach day.

Google Maps

Riders on the outside of the merry-go-round can play the brass ring game. Just be prepared for the kids to ask to ride again and again.

Google/Lauren Turek

Don’t forget to bring all of your beach essentials - chairs, towels, and an umbrella - to Watch Beach. If you’re not a local resident, you’ll have to purchase a day pass.

Google/Suzanne Giese If you don’t have a beach chair or an umbrella, no worries. You can rent both at the beach.

However, if you plan to spend more than one day at this shimmering blue swimming hole, you might want to consider purchasing a season pass.

Trip Advisor/Donalea M.

Sink your feet into the soft sand and soak up the sun before heading into the ocean for a cool down.

Google/JC

As the sun starts to go down, you might want to stroll along the water. You might just catch one of Rhode Island’s famous sunsets.

Trip Advisor/grandej

View days, hours, and admission prices on the official website of Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round & Beach. Or, stop by its Facebook page.

Google/Amy Walker

Do you have a favorite swimming hole in Rhode Island? Tell us about it in the comments! Watch Hill Beach is just one of the many Rhode Island swimming holes that are picture-perfect for a summer adventure.

Trip Advisor/UKGrandej

Google Maps

Google/Lauren Turek

Google/Suzanne Giese

If you don’t have a beach chair or an umbrella, no worries. You can rent both at the beach.

Trip Advisor/Donalea M.

Google/JC

Trip Advisor/grandej

Google/Amy Walker

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Address: Watch Hill Beach, 151 Bay St, Westerly, RI 02891, USA