Author
Molly McGlew
Photographer
via AirBnb
It’s funny to say “off-season” when it comes to Rhode Island. The truth is, no matter the time of year you visit this New England gem, you’ll find something to do—from surfing and bouldering to oyster shucking. As the smallest state in the Union (Rhode Island is only 37 miles wide by 48 miles long!), it boasts 400 miles of coastline to explore–with even more inland worth checking out, too.
The perfect place to cozy up this fall and winter, we’ve rounded up the 9 best Airbnb and VRBO beach shacks, cabins, and historic cottages in The Ocean State to put on your radar. Make your coffee milk to-go, snack on a Johnny Cake, and get scootin', there's plenty of adventure to be had in Rhode Island.
The 9 Best Cottages & Beach House Rentals in Rhode Island
South County House — Weekapaug, RI
Vibe: Rhode Island Relaxtion
South County House is a comfortable two-bedroom, 1.5 bath cape built in 1936 that sits on nearly an acre of land, 3/4 of a mile from the ocean. It borders a preserved forest and there is a small family farm across the street. Featured in Vogue, Arch Digest, and now Field Mag, the top-rated vacation rental has been thoughtfully redesigned and renovated with relaxation in mind, and provides an ideal escape from the distractions and noise of modern life.
Rate: $379/night
Cliff Cabin — Newport, RI
Vibe: Solo Dolo
With ocean views overlooking Fort Adams, the Newport Bridge, and passing sailboats, this cozy cliff-top cottage will let you live a sailor's life on the New England coast. Featuring one bedroom, a cozy living room, an adorable bathroom, a full kitchen, and an outdoor fire pit, it's a perfect tiny home for a coastal weekend. And as a bonus, the beach is within walking distance, and Newport is only a short drive away.
Rate: $216/night
John Potter Farmhouse — South Kingstown, RI
Vibe: Historic Hotspot
You can’t get more New England than this. Stay a few days in this newly remodeled and refinished farmhouse originally built in 1775. Surrounded by nature yet adjacent to the University of Rhode Island and near hiking trails, restaurants, and beaches. This spot is the perfect place to post up with the fireplace going when the temps drop outside.
Rate: $150/night
Cozy Cottage — Bristol, RI
Vibe: Sailor's Delight
Outfitted with vintage and beachy original detailing, this charming cabin features the coziness of a woodland cabin but has a great location in town, where there's free street parking if you bring the rig. There's plenty of outdoor activities in the surrounding area, but a short walk will get you into the beach town of Tiverton for shopping and lots of cafes. The recently remodeled cottage sleeps three, and there's a kitchen, a porch and Solo Stove for outside hanging, and a modern wood stove inside for winter visits.
Rate: $380/night
Treehouse by the Sea — South Kingstown, RI
Vibe: Upstate but Make it Rhode Island
Originally a carriage house built in 1901 by Narragansett stone masons, this “treehouse” by the beach is a lofty studio that sits on the second story up. It's a peaceful, bright, and cozy space that provides plenty of zones to chill out with a cold one post outdoor shower.
Rate: $166/night
Designer Hideaway — Little Compton, RI
Vibe: Casual Hiker and Natural Wine Connoisseur Approved
This newly renovated home sits on 2.4 acres in the heart of Little Compton, RI. Drive down a private dirt road and you’ll be home. Featuring high ceilings, a spacious private deck, a generous open floor living and dining room, high-speed wifi and a Smart TV, and an outdoor shower, you can't ask for much more. But there's also a game room downstairs and a washer/dryer. Remote yet easily accessible, the modern spot is a mile from Little Compton’s quaint downtown, too (author’s note: check out the Art Cafe) and less than 10 minutes to Goosewing & South Shore beaches. Your chill zone awaits.
Rate: $450/night
Captain's Quarters — Charlestown, RI
Vibe: Small but Mighty
If you like oysters, this is the spot to go (the hyper local oysters include East Beach Blondes, Ninigret Cups, and Charlestown Salts, btw). The Captain's Quarter is a cozy spot steps from Ninigret Pond at Ninigret Landing Marina. Known as the “Blue Lagoon,” the waters are clear and home to plenty of oyster farms.
Rate: $200/night
Darcy's Guesthouse — Jamestown, RI
Vibe: Designer Digs
Attached to the garage of a truly impressive home, this rental unit has a completely private entrance and features views of the wooded property, garden, and chicken yard through architect-designed, spacious windows. Although the home itself as an attraction, downtown Jamestown is just a walk away for exploring.
Rate: $189/night
Beach Cottage — North Kingstown, RI
Vibe: Mature yet Chill
An hour's drive outside of downtown Providence, If you’re looking for a safe bet, this spot provides one. Being steps away from the beach, you can take a wetsuit dip in Narragansett Bay or head over the bridge to Newport, only a 15 minute drive. Tucked in a peaceful, quiet neighborhood that's a great area for biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, birding, running, hiking, and sunset-watching.
Rate: $95/night
Published 04-19-2023
