The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) recommends closing Easton’s Beach in Newport and Third Beach in Middletown for swimming because of high bacteria levels.
Historically, beach closures in Rhode Island have been closely tied to precipitation. Stormwater runoff from roads, parking lots, and other impervious surfaces transports contamination (including bacteria) to our fresh and salt-water bodies.
The concentration of Enterocci bacteria in beach water samples is measured in cfu/100ml (colony forming units per 100 milliliters). Beach closures are based on exceedances of more than 60 cfu/100 ml in saltwater and in freshwater.
RIDOH will continue to monitor and review beach water quality regularly to ensure safe bathing throughout the summer. The status of a beach may change as new data become available. The most up-to-date beach information is available through a recorded message on RIDOH’s beaches telephone line (401-222-2751).
2020 Beach Season Closures
| Beach | City/Town | Closed On | Re-Opened | Number of Days Closed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 Statewide (for bacteria) | ||||
| Easton’s Beach | Newport | 6/11/2020 | 6/13/2020 | 2 |
| Goddard State Park Beach | Warwick | 6/11/2020 | 6/13/2020 | 2 |
| Easton’s Beach | Newport | 6/23/2020 | 6/25/2020 | 2 |
| Gooseberry Beach | Newport | 6/24/2020 | 6/26/2020 | 2 |
| Hazards Beach | Newport | 6/24/2020 | 6/26/2020 | 2 |
| North Kingstown | North Kingstown | 6/26/2020 | 6/27/2020 | 1 |
| Westwood YMCA | Coventry | 7/2/2020 | 7/3/0220 | 1 |
| Easton’s Beach | Newport | 7/16/2020 | ||
| Third Beach | Middletown | 7/16/2020 |
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has made this beach season unique. The beach experience will be different for visitors than in previous years. RIDOH strongly recommends that whether in the sand or the waves, beachgoers follow physical distancing guidelines, keeping a minimum distance of six feet from people outside their household or stable group. While at the beach this summer, it is recommended that you wear a face-covering in any crowded area (for example, the bathroom, concessions areas, or parking lots during busy times). However, face coverings are not required when you are easily, continuously, and measurably at least six feet from others. Face coverings should not be worn while swimming or playing in the water. When you follow these guidelines, you are doing your part to keep yourself and others safe and healthy.