Rhode Island Guide

Coastal Rhode Island Scenic Drives: Tours & Activities

Discover Rhode Island's stunning coastline, from charming fishing villages to Gilded Age mansions, on expertly guided scenic drives.

18+ tours
From $$35
3-4 hours

Rhode Island, the 'Ocean State,' boasts a coastline that's as captivating as it is diverse. From the iconic shores of Newport to the quieter, windswept beauty of the South County beaches, the state offers a tapestry of picturesque landscapes, historic towns, and breathtaking ocean vistas. Coastal Rhode Island scenic drives are more than just a way to get from point A to point B; they're an invitation to immerse yourself in the unique charm and natural splendor of this maritime gem. These curated routes allow visitors to experience the salty air, the dramatic ocean cliffs, and the quaint villages that define this beloved region, often with the added benefit of local insights and expert commentary. Whether you're drawn to the grandeur of Gilded Age architecture, the rustic appeal of fishing harbors, or the serene beauty of state parks, a scenic drive along Rhode Island's coast provides an accessible yet profound way to connect with its essence. The roads themselves become part of the adventure, winding past dune-fringed beaches, historic lighthouses, and vibrant seaside communities. These tours and activities are designed to highlight the best of this coastal paradise, offering a flexible and informative way to explore its many treasures. You'll encounter a rich history, a thriving culinary scene, and a landscape shaped by centuries of maritime influence, all while enjoying some of the most scenic routes in New England.

Featured Coastal Rhode Island Scenic Drives Tours

Discover our top picks for coastal rhode island scenic drives in Rhode Island

Newport Trolley Tour with Breakers Mansion - Viking Tours
From $45
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Since 1962 Viking Tours has shown visitors the Newport that we know and love! Explore the history of Newport on this 3-hour trolley tour. Pass the grand mansions on the scenic Ten-Mile Ocean Drive and Bellevue Avenue while learning about their stories. Experience The Breakers, the elaborate estate of Cornelius Vanderbilt. Wheelchair Accessible Trolley Upon Request with 24 Hour Notification, please contact us to confirm ADA requirements.

4.9(1,624)
3h
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Newport Gilded Age Mansions Trolley Tour with Breakers Admission
From $47.25
Free Cancellation

******FOR AGES 8+ ONLY****** This approx 3-hour tour is our scenic overview trolley tour PLUS a 90-minute visit inside the Vanderbilt Breaker's Mansion. After boarding our luxurious and comfortable trolley at Bus Platform #2 of the Newport Transit Center, your driver starts the tour with a brief history of Colonial-era downtown and explains the Gilded Era history and events that occurred over the centuries. Then you will experience breath-taking views of scenic Ocean Drive prior to seeing the strip of mansions lining Bellevue Ave. Along the route, movie and TV sets will come to life, such as HBOs The Gilded Ages. Today's happenings are also thoroughly covered such as the best dining spots, boat tours, and other fun activities. Your tour guide will detail the best way to navigate this bustling city as well as explain the Cliff Walk attractions. This tour is 160-180 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

4.9(3,784)
2h 40m
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Newport Trolley Tour - Viking Scenic Overview
From $25
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

On this 1.5-hour tour, take in the beauty of Newport from a trolley. Listen to the history of the buildings and restored homes on Ten-Mile Ocean Drive, along with the mansions on Bellevue Avenue. Enjoy the charm of Newport on this trolley tour.

4.8(839)
1h 30m
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Scenic Newport, RI Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
From $16.99
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Recommended: Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! Explore Newport, RI with a scenic self-guided driving tour! See everything this seaside town has to offer at your own pace. As you drive down Bellevue Avenue, the "most beautiful avenue in the world", see and learn about the gorgeous Gilded Age Mansions along the way - including The Breakers, Marble House, The Elms, Rosecliff, Château-sur-mer & more. Continue along Ocean Drive, featuring breathtaking vistas. This self-guided tour allows you to explore with maximum flexibility and value. After booking, check your email to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. These steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. From there, follow the audio instructions and the route. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

4.3(324)
2h
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BEST OF RHODES ISLAND - PRIVATE Tour
From $395.33
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Join us for a tour along Rhodes’ beautiful East coast and discover its rich history and beauty. Discover the main highlights of Rhodes town and the beautiful white village of Lindos through this half-day private tour. We will visit the Old Town, the Mandraki harbor together with the area where the Colossus of Rhodes once stood. Then you will walk through the ancient Acropolis of Rhodes. After that, we will have a scenic drive on the East Coast towards the white village of Lindos. You will have more than an hour stay to explore its narrow streets and visit the beautiful Acropolis on the top. A perfect introduction for first-time visitors and cruise ship passengers! Let us drive you through the beauty of this magnificent island and maximize your valuable holiday time. We use luxury vehicles and local knowledgeable drivers.

4.9(70)
5h
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Newport RI Mansions Scenic Trolley Tour (Ages 8+ only)
From $27.8
Free Cancellation

For ages 8+ only, this approx 90-min tour is an overview of scenic Newport. Please arrive 10 minutes before tour start time for boarding. Tours leave on time . After boarding our luxurious and comfortable trolley at platform #2 of the Newport Transit Center, your driver starts the tour with a brief history of Colonial-era downtown and explains the Gilded Age history and events that occurred over the centuries. Then you will experience breath-taking views of scenic Ocean Drive prior to seeing the strip of mansions lining Bellevue Ave. Along the route, movie and TV sets will come to life, such as HBOs The Gilded Ages., Hocus Pocus 2, The Great Gatsby, andf more. Today's happenings are also thoroughly covered such as the best dining spots, boat tours, and other fun activities. Your tour guide will detail the best way to navigate this bustling city as well as explain the Cliff Walk attractions. This tour is approximately 70-90 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

4.8(605)
1h 10m
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Scenic Bay Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport
From $40.5
Free Cancellation

Come aboard spacious tour boat Coastal Queen at Bowen's Wharf, Newport, and see magnificent Newport Harbor and the Narragansett Bay area sites. This narrated, 75-minute Scenic Bay Cruise tour is a great way to experience Newport from an entirely different waterfront perspective. Sit back, relax and enjoy the breathtaking views while sipping on your favorite beverages from the beautiful teak wood bar. The guides will point out and share their knowledge of the many scenic sites that make up historic Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay while you cruise by harbor estates, lighthouses, forts, yachts and more. This 57-foot, pristine tour boat offers maximum comfort and panoramic views from every seat. Coastal Queen has both a cozy and weatherproof main salon and an open-air covered top deck for catching fresh ocean breezes.‍

4.7(233)
1h 15m
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Ultimate Newport Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: Walk & Drive
From $19.99
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Visit historic, coastal Newport at your own pace during this attraction-packed, self-guided tour. Follow a carefully chosen itinerary and live GPS map, with stops at celebrated mansions like the Bellevue House, the chateau-inspired Elms, and the iconic Vanderbilt home, the Breakers, plus natural sights like Easton’s Beach and Fort Adams State Park. • A self-guided tour of Newport’s top historic & natural attractions • Ideal for groups: purchase only one tour per car, & everyone can listen in • Take as long or as little as you’d like in each location, with plenty of enriching audio After booking, check your email to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, & access your tour. These steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. From there, follow the audio instructions and the route. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

4.0(30)
3h
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BEST OF RHODES ISLAND - PRIVATE TOUR - SHORE EXCURSION - FULL DAY - 4 People
From $541.99
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Here at "RHODES PRIVATE TOURS" we are dedicated to trying to fulfill your every request. Highly suggested for cruise ship passengers, or those staying on the island for a short period of time. This tour reflect all three famous features of Rhodes, from its exotic beauty, to its colorful past, to the exquisite local cuisine. The Old Town - Street of the Knights - Grand Master Palace The New Town - Old harbor - Colossus of Rhodes Elli Beach and North Point of the Island Acropolis of Rhodes - Panoramic View of the City and Monuments The Pottery Demonstration - Rhodian Art Panoramic View of Lindos Beach - Village and Acropolis Visit the Village and Acropolis of Lindos The St Paul’s Bay - Scenic Break for lunch at Haraki Seaside Village A drive from the East to the West Coast Mount Filerimos - Acropolis of Ancient Ialyssos And through Ixia back to your ship, or hotel At the end of the day you will feel that you really have seen it all. If your group is larger, we have luxury minibus

5.0(66)
7h
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Ocean Drive Historic District: A Newport Self-Guided Driving Tour
From $9.99
👤Private Tour

Are you looking for a discrete way to see Newport’s local secrets? Explore at your own pace with this affordable driving tour. • Hear the rowdy Newport history of America’s famous and infamous on a mansion-packed drive from America’s Cup avenue past Fort Adams and the Cliff Walk houses of owners like Jay Leno • Hear from producer Erin Egresitz, a professional tour guide with ten years of experience and, the owner of Rhody Rambles • Take 45 minutes or linger along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before and after your booking date • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point. When you, and your car, are in the right place, just tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

3.8(24)
45 min
View Details
 Nutty Newport Scavenger Hunt
From $29
Free Cancellation

Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment! Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!

3.7(7)
2h
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Newport Trolley Tour with Marble House - Viking Tours
From $44
Free Cancellation

Explore the history and see the beauty of Newport on this driver narrated 3-hour trolley tour. Pass beautiful buildings and grand mansions on Ten-Mile Ocean Drive and Bellevue Avenue while learning about their stories. Included in your tour is admission into the Marble House, the elaborate estate of William K. Vanderbilt.

4.9(144)
3h
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Scenic Tour of Newport, RI By Helicopter - 3 person Mansion Tour
From $255
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Enjoy a 12-minute Mansion Tour of Newport, RI for groups up to 3 passengers. A truly unique perspective above the treasures of Newport awaits you on this tour. Take in captivating views of Aquidneck Island, Rose Island, the mighty Newport Bridge, and Ocean Drive. Soar over miles of the most beautiful coastline in the country. Enjoy breathtaking views of Rosecliff Mansion, Marble House, The Elms and many other famous residences. Get up close and personal with Hammersmith Farm, the Kennedy’s Newport summer home, and of course experience The Breakers, all from your front row seat in the sky.

5.0(17)
12 min
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90 Minute Luxury Van Scenic Tour of Newport Mansions
From $550
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Enjoy Newport’s best narrated scenic tour in luxury and comfort! Our tour departs from the Newport Transit Center at Platform C 23 America’s Cup Ave. Newport Rhode Island. The guide starts the tour by covering Newport’s Colonial downtown area and its rich history, including 18 television and movie sets filmed over the years. Our luxury van proceeds to breathtaking Ocean Drive, where you’ll begin to see Gilded Age mansions. Then comes Bellevue Ave Mansion Row and the Cliff Walk area, where the guide shows you the stunning “summer cottages” and talks about the millionaire barons who once owned them. You can visit the inside of the Breakers Mansion for an optional price and be picked up later. The tour winds down in the waterfront downtown shopping and dining district where the guide covers all the contemporary activities available for you in today’s Newport.

1h 30m
View Details
Gem Open Air EV Rental in Newport
From $599
Free Cancellation

Cruise through Newport's scenic streets in style aboard the Newport GEM. Enjoy the open-air experience with the panoramic sunroof, while the Bluetooth radio provides your favorite tunes. Sink into the high-end seating for a comfortable and relaxing ride, perfect for taking in the sights and sounds of this charming coastal city.

8h
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Why Choose Coastal Rhode Island Scenic Drives in Rhode Island?

Unmatched Coastal Beauty

Experience breathtaking ocean views, sandy beaches, and dramatic cliffs that are quintessential to Rhode Island's charm.

Historic Exploration

Journey through charming seaside villages, past iconic lighthouses, and explore the Gilded Age mansions of Newport.

Convenient Exploration

These tours offer a hassle-free way to navigate Rhode Island's winding coastal roads and discover its highlights without the stress of planning.

Photographer's Paradise

Capture stunning landscapes and picturesque scenes, from historic harbors to panoramic ocean vistas.

Local Flavors

Many drives pass through areas renowned for fresh seafood and charming local eateries, perfect for a delightful culinary stop.

Rich Maritime Heritage

Delve into the maritime history of Rhode Island, from its colonial past to its prominence in sailing and fishing.

Types of Coastal Rhode Island Scenic Drives in Rhode Island

Newport Gilded Age & Coastal Drive Tours

These tours focus on Newport's legendary mansions, including The Breakers and Marble House, combined with drives along Ocean Drive and Ten Mile Drive. Expect to see opulent architecture and stunning oceanfront estates.

Gilded Age Mansion VisitsOcean Drive Scenic RouteCliff Walk AccessGuided Commentary on HistoryDuration: 3-4 hours

South County Beach & Lighthouse Tours

Explore the beautiful, often less crowded, beaches of South County, such as Misquamicut and Watch Hill. These tours frequently include visits to historic lighthouses like Point Judith and picturesque coastal towns.

Beach Access PointsLighthouse SightseeingCharming Village ExplorationOpportunities for Coastal StrollsDuration: 3-5 hours

Block Island Day Trip Drives (Ferry Included)

While not exclusively a drive, these comprehensive tours often include ferry transportation to Block Island and guided exploration of its unique Mohegan Bluffs and charming main town via a scenic drive once there.

Round-trip Ferry TicketsBlock Island ExplorationMohegan Bluffs VisitGuidance on Island HighlightsDuration: Full Day (8-10 hours)

Self-Guided Drive Itineraries & Audio Tours

For independent travelers, these options provide detailed route suggestions and engaging audio commentary that can be downloaded and used at your own pace. Ideal for those who prefer flexibility.

Pre-planned RoutesDownloadable Audio GuidesFlexible ScheduleFocus on Key LandmarksDigital Maps Included

What to Expect on Coastal Rhode Island Scenic Drives Tours

Duration

Most guided scenic drive tours range from 3 to 5 hours, allowing ample time for stops and sightseeing. Day trips to Block Island will be significantly longer.

Weather

Rhode Island weather can be variable, especially along the coast. Expect sunshine, but also potential for fog, wind, and cooler temperatures, even in summer. Layering is recommended.

Group Size

Group sizes can vary from intimate small-group tours (6-12 people) to larger bus tours. Self-guided options offer complete privacy.

What's Included

Typically includes guided commentary, transportation via van or bus, and sometimes entrance fees to specific attractions. Ferry tickets are included for Block Island tours.

Meeting Point

Meeting points are usually in central locations within popular tourist areas like downtown Newport or designated visitor centers. Specifics will be provided upon booking.

Additional Costs

While tours cover the main itinerary, personal expenses, meals not specified, and optional souvenirs are typically not included.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Book in advance, especially during peak season (summer and fall foliage).

2

Check the weather forecast and dress in layers; coastal breezes can be cool.

3

Wear comfortable shoes, as many tours involve short walks at scenic points.

4

Bring a good camera or smartphone for the numerous photo opportunities.

5

Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and beautiful scenery.

6

Factor in time for spontaneous stops at roadside farm stands or small shops.

7

If taking a self-guided tour, download offline maps of the area as cell service can be spotty in some coastal regions.

8

Inquire about any specific photo stops or viewpoints that are particularly renowned on the chosen route.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Are these tours suitable for families?

A: Yes, many scenic drives are family-friendly, offering opportunities to see beautiful landscapes and learn about local history. Some tours might be more geared towards adults, so it's worth checking the specific tour details.

Q:What's the best time of year for a coastal Rhode Island scenic drive?

A: The summer months offer classic beach weather and vibrant atmosphere. However, spring and fall are spectacular with blooming flowers or colorful foliage, and often fewer crowds.

Q:Can I do a scenic drive on my own without a tour?

A: Absolutely! Rhode Island's coastline is perfect for self-driving. You can plan your own route using maps and explore at your own pace. Self-guided audio tours are also a great option for independent exploration.

Q:What should I pack for a coastal Rhode Island drive tour?

A: Bring comfortable clothing and shoes, a light jacket or sweater for the sea breeze, sunscreen, a hat, and your camera. If the tour involves beach stops, consider bringing swimwear and a towel.

Q:Do tours stop for meals?

A: Some longer tours may include a lunch stop or allow time for you to purchase food at a scenic location. Always check the specific tour itinerary for meal inclusions or recommendations.

Q:What if the weather is bad?

A: Most tour operators have cancellation policies for severe weather. It's best to check the specific operator's policy regarding weather-related cancellations or rescheduling.

Q:How much driving is involved in these tours?

A: The actual driving time varies greatly depending on the tour's scope. Guided tours often break up driving with stops at attractions. Self-guided options allow you to control the driving duration.

Q:Can I book a private scenic drive tour?

A: Yes, many operators offer private or customized tours. This is a fantastic option for families, groups of friends, or those wanting a more personalized experience.

Don't Miss the Perfect Rhode Island Experience

Book your coastal rhode island scenic drives today - 18+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Rhode Island?

Explore charming coastal towns and historic Gilded Age mansions along the scenic Rhode Island shoreline.

Discover unique maritime history and vibrant arts scenes in picturesque waterfront cities like Newport.

Enjoy fresh seafood and world-class sailing opportunities, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Step back in time with preserved colonial architecture and revolutionary war sites throughout the state.

Experience genuine New England hospitality with local festivals and intimate community gatherings.

Uncover the 'Ocean State's' intimate scale, offering diverse experiences within a short drive.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Rhode Island experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, ideal for coastal activities, while autumn brings crisp air and vibrant foliage. Winters are cold with snow, and spring offers mild temperatures as the state awakens.

Best Months

The best months to visit Rhode Island are typically June through September for warm weather and beach access, or September and October for beautiful fall colors and fewer crowds.

Peak Season

Peak season in Rhode Island is during the summer months (June to August), characterized by warm, sunny weather, bustling beaches, and high demand for accommodations and attractions.

Off Season

The off-season, from November through March, sees cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, offering a quieter experience and potentially lower prices for accommodations.

Plan Your Rhode Island Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Rhode Island is quite manageable, especially given its compact size. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring coastal areas and charming towns. Public transportation includes the RIPTA bus system, which connects major cities and towns, though routes can be less frequent in rural areas. For island hopping, ferries to Block Island depart from various mainland ports. Ride-sharing services are available in urban centers like Providence. Consider walking or biking when exploring walkable historic districts like Newport and Providence.

Car Rental Deals in Rhode Island

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Where to Stay

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Best Hotel Deals in Rhode Island

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Ready to Explore Rhode Island?

Discover the best tours and activities in Rhode Island with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.