Rhode Island’s eight state beaches will close their facilities for the season after Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 2, the Department of Environmental Management announced.
Pavilion restrooms, concessions, lifeguards and staff will end operations following the holiday weekend. Winterization of beach facilities will begin Tuesday, Sept. 2.
All state beaches are expected to have lifeguards on duty throughout the Labor Day weekend, though staffing reductions may require swimming area restrictions at certain locations. Lifeguards will be stationed at non-surf swimming areas at Lincoln Woods, Pulaski and Goddard Memorial State Parks, but will not be present at Fort Adams State Park and the Burlingame State Park Picnic Area.
DEM emphasized that individual responsibility remains essential for water safety, even with lifeguard coverage. The department recommends swimming only in designated areas with lifeguard supervision, knowing personal swimming limits, staying aware of water conditions and ensuring adult supervision of children near water.
Additional safety information is available at riparks.ri.gov/beachsafety.
After Labor Day, beach gates and parking lots will remain open unless extreme weather conditions require closures. Non-food concessions at Misquamicut State Beach will continue operating daily, weather permitting, for several weeks beyond the holiday weekend. Portable restrooms will be available at most state beaches as conditions allow.
The eight Rhode Island state beaches include Charlestown Town Beach, East Beach, East Matunuck State Beach, Misquamicut State Beach, Roger Wheeler State Beach, Salty Brine State Beach, Scarborough State Beach and South Kingstown Town Beach.
For more information about DEM programs, visit dem.ri.gov.
