East Matunuck State Beach is a public recreation area encompassing 144 acres (58 ha) on the shore of Block Island Sound in the town of South Kingstown, Rhode Island.[2] The state beach offers picnicking, ocean swimming, and beach activities.[3]
| East Matunuck State Beach | |
|---|---|
View of East Matunuck beach from the rocky stretch along the beach's western shore. | |
Location in Rhode Island | |
| Location | South Kingstown, Washington, Rhode Island, United States |
| Coordinates | 41°22′35″N 71°31′43″W[1] |
| Area | 144 acres (58 ha) |
| Elevation | 3 ft (0.91 m)[1] |
| Established | 1956 |
| Governing body | Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Division of Parks & Recreation |
| Website | East Matunuck State Beach |
The state began securing the area through condemnation proceedings beginning in 1956.[3] An additional 36-acre (15 ha) parcel was purchased in 1967.[4] A beach pavilion featuring concessions, bathrooms, changing stalls, and a lifeguard tower was built at a cost of $4.5 million and opened in May 2012.[5]
In the 2020 summer season, all RI state beaches are open 9AM to 6PM [6]
Protected areas of Rhode Island | |
|---|---|
| Federal |
|
| State Parks |
|
| State Beaches | |
| State Forests |
|
| Wild and Scenic Rivers | |
| Other protected areas |
|