Third Beach is a scenic, family-friendly public town beach in Middletown, Rhode Island (specifically at 804 Third Beach Road, Middletown, RI 02842). It’s one of two main beaches operated by the Town of Middletown—the other being nearby Sachuest Beach (locally known as Second Beach).

Quick Overview

• Why the name? It’s the third in a series of beaches along the Aquidneck Island coast (after First Beach/Easton’s Beach in Newport and Second Beach/Sachuest in Middletown).
• Vibe and setting: A smaller, quieter East-facing beach with soft sand, calm waters (fewer waves than Second Beach), and views overlooking Third Beach Harbor near the mouth of the Sakonnet River. It’s great for families, young kids, picnics, and relaxed beach days rather than big surf or crowds.

tripadvisor.comKey Features

• Calm, protected waters ideal for swimming and wading (no big waves).
• Boat ramp and harbor area for small boats/kayaks.
• Picnic tables, grills, and shade structures near the boat ramp.
• Port-a-johns in the parking lots.
• Nearby walking trails and scenic roads (utilities were buried along Third Beach Road in 2021 to improve the view).

middletownri.govAccess and Parking (Important!)

• Beach itself: Public and open to everyone—walk-ons are always free, year-round.
• Hours (in season): 8 a.m.–6 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
• Parking (in season): The town lots (Boat Ramp and Town Beach lots) are resident-only with a Middletown seasonal beach pass. Non-residents cannot park in the lots during peak season without a pass (daily or seasonal options exist but are limited/lot-specific this year). Off-season parking is generally free and unrestricted.
• Pro tip: If you’re not a local, plan to walk in or park elsewhere and stroll over. It’s less crowded than Second Beach anyway.

Nearby Note

Just down Third Beach Road you’ll also find Peabody’s Beach—a separate, privately owned and operated family-friendly spot (with its own parking, snack shack, and lifeguards). It’s sometimes confused with the town beach but is distinct and open to the public on its own terms. Overall, Third Beach is loved for its peaceful, low-key atmosphere—perfect if you want a chill beach day away from the bigger crowds at Second Beach or Newport’s First Beach. Check the Town of Middletown website (middletownri.gov) for the latest on passes, water quality, or any closures.