What to expect at Roger Wheeler and Misquamicut beaches this summer

RIDEM has been busy building a new boardwalk at Roger Wheeler and expanding access to parking at Misquamicut

When Roger Wheeler State Beach and Misquamicut State Beach reopen on Memorial Day weekend, beachgoers will find that both places have undergone a makeover.

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has been busy during the offseason improving access, amenities and parking at both state beaches.

At Roger Wheeler in Narragansett, workers have been installing a new boardwalk, doubling the size of the current one to nearly 1,200 feet in length and making it accessible for people with disabilities. On a recent windy Saturday, some beachgoers soaked in the sun while a few workers milled about the construction site.

The work includes new stairs, sidewalks, shade structures, a foot-washing station and concrete benches. Most of it is expected to be completed by Memorial Day, but some work will continue in June with minimal impacts to beachgoers, according to the DEM.

At Misquamicut, in Westerly, the DEM has been improving access to the beach’s parking lot by expanding the entrance from three to eight lanes, which will help improve traffic flow. The work is expected to be completed in May, according to the DEM.

Memorial Day weekend also means reopening of the rest of Rhode Island’s state beaches. It marks the return of seasonal amenities, lifeguards, beach staff, concessions and restrooms.

And it marks the return of paid parking as well. Daily passes are available to purchase at the site, while season beach passes are available to purchase online – though visitors should know that parking is first-come, first-served. Before leaving home, check whether parking is available online.