August in Rhode Island: Your Sand Bucket List for Summer’s Final Weeks

August 14, 2025

From wave-jumping and ice cream runs to lotus blooms in full glory, here’s your sand bucket list for the season’s end.

You’ve heard of a bucket list. But have you made one filled with Rhode Island adventures before summer ends?

Think of it as a sand bucket list: visit a legendary ice cream stand worth the drive. Jump waves at your favorite beach. See the North Kingstown lotus garden at peak bloom. In Rhode Island, things to do are more than you can count!

August in Rhode Island always arrives faster than you think. So, we’ve gathered iconic Rhode Island things to do before the season comes to a close.

See Legends at the International Tennis Hall of Fame’s Induction Celebration Weekend

Newport is hosting one of tennis’s most glamorous traditions in a fresh new way this August.

From August 21–23, the spotlight will shine on five-time Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova and doubles stars Bob and Mike Bryan. Their careers have redefined excellence on the court.

The long weekend blends sport, style, and seaside charm. Attend the Fit for Fame Blazer Presentation Dinner. Visit Fame Fest to mingle with legends, enjoy food trucks, and catch live podcasts.

A new highlight, the Hall of Fame Celebrity Pro Classic, pairs Hall of Famers with celebrity guests like Angela Kinsey and Uzo Aduba. Matches are as playful as they are competitive.

On Saturday night, the grass courts transform into a stage for the Induction Ceremony. The evening ends with a live concert by Fitz and the Tantrums.

In Newport, tennis history is not only preserved—it’s celebrated in true coastal style.

Experience WaterFire in Providence

WaterFire is an award-winning art installation and a Rhode Island institution. Glowing pyres burn on Providence’s three downtown rivers, drawing thousands each summer.

Visitors stroll through more than a mile of parks and public spaces. The event offers both full lightings and half lightings.

On Monday, August 18, enjoy a Basin Lighting. See the circle of 22 braziers in Waterplace Park Basin and the eight leading to Providence Place Mall. All will be beautifully set aflame.

Spend a Day Exploring Jamestown

Conanicut Island is one of Rhode Island’s most stunning coastal gems. Jamestown occupies the entire island, the second largest in Narragansett Bay.

With fewer than 6,000 residents, Jamestown offers preserved open spaces and historic farms. Downtown is small but charming, and new businesses are worth exploring. Where to eat in Jamestown:

• Beech is a multi-level coastal restaurant built around a 150-year-old beech tree. Sip a drink in the sky or dine under the canopy.
• Salty is a serene, Mediterranean-inspired wine bar that feels tucked away from the world.
• Our Table features seasonal menus alongside favorite dishes made with the highest-quality ingredients and creative twists.

If you’re heading to or from Newport, take the Newport Jamestown Ferry. It’s fast, inexpensive, and a beautiful ride.

Ride the Flying Horses Carousel in Watch Hill

This seaside landmark is the oldest continuously operating carousel in the United States. Built in 1876, it’s pure Rhode Island nostalgia.

Children lean out to grab the brass ring for a free ride. Steps from the beach, it blends history, tradition, and joy for all ages.

Take a Self-Guided Providence Murals Tour

You can take this interactive art tour year-round, but August in Rhode Island is a great time for it.

The Avenue Concept’s self-guided tours highlight dozens of murals and sculptures in downtown, the South Side, and the West End.

Walk, ride, or drive—see everything in a day or break it into sections. Pair it with a Downcity Providence Food Tour for an unforgettable day.

Treat Yourself at a Classic Rhode Island Clam Shack

Clam shacks are a summer staple and one of the top things to do in Rhode Island in August.

• Aunt Carrie’s in Narragansett is nearly 100 years old. Try the Rhode Island Shore Dinner with chowder, clam cakes, steamed clams, and fried flounder. Add lobster for the full experience.
• Evelyn’s Drive-In in Tiverton overlooks Nanaquaket Pond. It’s famous for clam strip rolls, clear chowder, and fish and chips. Expect a line at the takeout window.

Sail in Newport Harbor

When you live in the Sailing Capital of the World, you have to get on the water before summer’s end.

Gansett Cruises offers 90-minute narrated harbor tours aboard a restored lobster boat. Depending on your cruise, enjoy treats like Del’s Lemonade, stuffies, or coffee “cabinets.” Local brews and cocktails are also available.

Spend a Day at Tiverton Four Corners

Tiverton is a charming FarmCoast destination, and Tiverton Four Corners is its heart.

Start at Groundswell Cafe + Bakery, located in a former 1870s general store. Enjoy scratch-made breads, pastries, and organic coffee blends.

Browse Sayles Livingston Home for curated indoor and outdoor furniture, décor, and exclusive design pieces. Visit Tiffany Peay Jewelry for handcrafted gemstone creations. Explore The Intarawut Gallery for Southeast Asian textiles, antiques, and artwork.

Movies on the Beach

On Wednesdays, Narragansett Town Beach hosts Movies on the Beach at the Cabana Horseshoe. Bring dinner, snacks, drinks, and popcorn for a seaside movie night. Families will love the screening of If, a heartwarming story of a girl who can see forgotten imaginary friends.

Blok Island also screens movies at Fred Benson Town Beach Pavilion. See Vicky Cristina Barcelona on August 19 and The Grand Budapest Hotel on September 2.

Enjoy Free Waterfront Concerts

Free outdoor concerts are a highlight of August in Rhode Island.

• NIMFest in Newport happens Sundays at King Park from 3–6 p.m., overlooking the harbor. Expect swing, reggae, rock, and soul.
• North Kingstown Town Beach hosts Tuesday night shows with blues, R&B, and country. Food trucks are on site.
• Middletown’s Second Beach offers Monday night concerts with bonfires and ocean views. Performers this month include Angelus Hall and The Raver, followed by fireworks.

Ride the Providence–Newport Ferry

This scenic ferry links India Point in Providence with Perrotti Park in Newport. Round-trip fares are $24 for adults and $12 for kids or seniors. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy Narragansett Bay. Plus, it helps avoid weekend traffic.

There’s still time to enjoy summer’s best experiences. So take advantage of these final weeks, and make lasting Ocean State memories.