The South Kingstown center is about 2 miles southeast of University of Rhode Island and 2 miles west of Narragansett Beach.
In South Kingstown, peak season spans from Memorial Day to Labor Day, when the days are long and the weather is warm. In July and August, high temperatures reach the low to upper 70s, and the area receives occasional showers and rainstorms. In spring and fall, high temperatures generally reach the low 60s, while low temperatures can dip into the low 20s during December and January.
Spring and fall can both be rainy in South Kingstown, so be sure to pack an umbrella or rain gear if you plan to visit outside of peak season. During winter, the area receives an average of 30 inches of snow, so anticipate snow and ice if you plan to visit in December or January.
If your travel dates are flexible, consider visiting during the South Kingstown area's biggest annual events. The South County Balloon Festival fills the Kingston sky with color every July, while the New England Quahog Festival brings food, entertainment, and family-friendly fun to North Kingstown in late August. Be sure to book your accommodations in advance of these events to get the best rates and group discounts.
Want to make sure you get the best price on your South Kingstown accommodations? Check out the best hotel discounts and most generous group rates in the area.
AARP members and senior travelers can get discounts at the Newport Marriott. With over 300 guest rooms and 13 meeting rooms, this upscale hotel is a smart choice for groups and large events. You'll also love the Marriott's indoor pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
AAA members can get low rates at TownePlace Suites by Marriott North Kingstown. This mid-range hotel boasts spacious rooms with fully equipped kitchens and offers a range of freebies that include breakfast and Wi-Fi.
Government employees and members of the military can save at the Holiday Inn South Kingstown / Newport Area. Located in the heart of South Kingstown, this upscale hotel has just what you need for a getaway with family or friends, including an outdoor pool, an on-site gym, and a full-service restaurant.
When you stay at South Kingstown's best mid-range hotels, sticking to your budget is a breeze. Take a look at the area's best value options.
Book your stay at the Hampton Inn South Kingstown / Newport Area, and you'll be in the heart of South Kingstown. This group-friendly hotel offers affordable guest rooms, free coffee in the lobby, and complimentary breakfast each morning. If you're in a rush, pick up an On the Go breakfast bag to fuel up on your way out the door.
In nearby Jamestown, the Wyndham Bay Voyage Inn is perched right on the waterfront and offers easy access to South Kingstown. Whether you choose a standard room or a suite, you'll appreciate the inn's historic feel, the outdoor pool, and the proximity to the beach.
For a charming bed-and-breakfast feel at an affordable price, book your stay at the historic Chart House Inn. This small Newport inn has eight light-filled rooms and suites, which are ideal for quick getaways and extended stays alike. Gather with family and friends in the large living room area, enjoy the inn's free continental breakfast in the morning, and use the complimentary Wi-Fi to chart your day in the South Kingstown area.
From oceanfront activities and outdoor recreation to historic attractions, South Kingstown has something for everyone. Start your visit at the Hale House, which was once the summer home of author Edward Everett Hale, also a historian, a Unitarian minister and the father of Revolutionary War hero Nathan Hale. The preserved home looks just like it did in the 1890s and hosts a range of programs and exhibits for all ages. Check the calendar of events to make sure you don't miss lectures, art exhibits, or performances during your visit.
No matter when you visit, you won't want to skip the South Kingstown Town Beach. This 1,300-foot beach has a boardwalk, picnic areas, and a playground, making it ideal for an afternoon of fun. Note that concessions and other facilities are only open during the summer season. For even more oceanfront fun, make your way to East Matunuck State Beach. This 144-acre beach is the place to be for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing with family and friends.
To explore the South Kingstown area on two wheels, make your way to the William C. O'Neill Bike Path. This 7-mile bike path spans Kingston to Narragansett and skirts the northern edge of South Kingstown. You can easily travel all the way from the University of Rhode Island to the Narragansett Pier Beach, stopping to spot wildlife or explore town centers along the way.
To spot even more native wildlife, visit the Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge. This 787-acre facility is home to several wildlife habitats and includes sand dunes, beaches, woodlands, and freshwater and saltwater ponds. Stop by the visitor center to learn more about the wildlife, explore 2 miles of nature trails, and browse the interpretive panels to find out more along the way.
In West Kingstown, the Great Swamp Management Area is another essential stop for nature lovers. This 3,350-acre preserve features wetlands and forests to explore, and it's also home to the 4-mile Great Swamp Trail, which welcomes hikers and cyclists.
Why wait to plan your South Kingstown getaway? Find your ideal accommodations and start designing your trip to this Rhode Island gem.
Below are reviews of the city of South Kingstown, RI from an actual visitor's perspective.
Didn't visit S Kingstown but stayed at the Holiday Inn to go to the Pt. Judith ferry to Block Island