Rhode Island, though the smallest state in the U.S., is rich with hidden gems that offer peace and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle. If you’re yearning for a quiet retreat where nature and history intertwine, these ten secluded towns provide the perfect escape. From coastal villages with pristine beaches to countryside havens nestled among rolling hills, each town invites you to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of life.
10. Glocester: Wooded Wonderland
Glocester, with a population of around 10,000, is a town steeped in history and surrounded by lush forests. Visitors can explore the charming village of Chepachet, home to antique shops, historic buildings, and the famous Ancients and Horribles Parade. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking trails at George Washington Management Area and fishing at Bowdish Reservoir. The town’s economy is rooted in small businesses and agriculture, preserving its rural character. Glocester’s seclusion stems from its expansive woodlands and absence of major highways, offering a peaceful environment away from urban life.
Where is Glocester?
Nestled in the northwest corner of Rhode Island, Glocester borders Connecticut to the west. The town is accessible via scenic rural roads, enhancing its tucked-away feel. Its distance from major cities and limited public transportation contribute to its secluded atmosphere. Glocester’s rich natural landscapes and quiet, winding roads make it a hidden gem for those seeking solitude in nature.
9. Tiverton: Historic and Secluded
Tiverton is a coastal town of about 16,000 residents, offering a blend of historic charm and natural beauty. Stroll through Tiverton Four Corners, a quaint area filled with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes housed in centuries-old buildings. Nature lovers can explore the Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge or relax at Fogland Beach, popular for windsurfing and breathtaking sunsets. The local economy thrives on small businesses, fishing, and farming, maintaining a close-knit community feel. Tiverton’s seclusion is enhanced by its rural landscapes and quiet coastal roads, providing a serene escape from city life.
Where is Tiverton?
Located in the eastern part of the state, Tiverton sits along the Sakonnet River and borders Massachusetts to the north. It’s accessible via Route 24 but remains off the main tourist trails, adding to its peaceful ambiance. The town’s position along the coast, coupled with its rolling hills and farmland, creates a secluded environment. Visitors enjoy the scenic drives and the feeling of being tucked away in a quiet corner of Rhode Island.
8. Richmond: Rural Relaxation
Home to approximately 7,700 people, Richmond exemplifies rural living in Rhode Island. The town is dotted with farms, and outdoor activities abound, from golfing at the Richmond Country Club to hiking in the Arcadia Management Area. Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line in the Wood and Pawcatuck Rivers. Richmond’s economy is centered on agriculture and small businesses, fostering a tight-knit community. Its seclusion is due to its expansive green spaces and minimal commercial development, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet, rural getaway.
Where is Richmond?
Richmond is situated in the southwestern part of the state, bordering Connecticut to the west. It’s accessible via Interstate 95, yet the town maintains a secluded feel thanks to its vast forests and farmlands. The absence of major urban centers nearby and the prevalence of country roads contribute to its peaceful atmosphere. Richmond’s natural beauty and quiet surroundings make it a haven for relaxation.
7. Hopkinton: A Riverside Retreat
With a population of about 8,100, Hopkinton offers a tranquil escape along the Wood River. The town is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, with pristine waters winding through scenic landscapes. Hikers can explore the extensive trails in the Grills Preserve and Langworthy Farm Winery offers local wine tasting in a rustic setting. Agriculture and small businesses are the backbone of Hopkinton’s economy, preserving its rural charm. The town’s seclusion comes from its wooded areas and absence of bustling commercial centers, providing a serene environment for visitors and residents alike.
Where is Hopkinton?
Located in the southwestern corner of Rhode Island, Hopkinton borders Connecticut and is just north of Westerly. It’s accessible via Interstate 95, but the town’s winding roads and lush greenery give it a remote feel. The surrounding forests and rivers enhance its secluded nature, making it feel miles away from the nearest city. Hopkinton’s peaceful landscapes and quiet streets offer a restful retreat from the everyday hustle.
6. Jamestown: Island Serenity
Jamestown, home to around 5,500 residents, occupies Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay. The town boasts historical sites like the Beavertail Lighthouse and Museum, offering panoramic ocean views and picturesque sunsets. Outdoor activities include sailing, biking, and exploring Fort Wetherill State Park’s rugged cliffs and trails. While tourism contributes to the economy, Jamestown maintains a laid-back, residential vibe. Its seclusion is amplified by its island setting, separated from the mainland by bridges, granting a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by water.
Where is Jamestown?
Nestled between Newport and North Kingstown, Jamestown is accessible via the Jamestown-Verrazzano Bridge and the Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge. Despite its proximity to these towns, the island’s limited access points and natural barriers provide a sense of isolation. The surrounding Narragansett Bay creates a buffer from the hustle of larger cities. Jamestown’s coastal beauty and quiet neighborhoods make it an idyllic island escape.
5. Charlestown: Coastal Peace
Charlestown is a serene coastal town with a population of nearly 8,000. It’s renowned for its pristine beaches like Charlestown Beach and East Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Nature enthusiasts can visit the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge, offering birdwatching and walking trails around serene salt ponds. The town’s economy is focused on tourism, fishing, and small-scale agriculture. Charlestown’s seclusion is maintained through careful development and vast protected lands, ensuring a peaceful coastal environment.
Where is Charlestown?
Situated along Rhode Island’s southern coast, Charlestown is accessible via U.S. Route 1 but remains distant from urban centers. Its location between Westerly and South Kingstown provides a buffer from city life. The town’s expansive shorelines and protected parks contribute to its secluded feel. Visitors often remark on the unspoiled beauty and tranquility that make Charlestown a favored destination for quiet coastal relaxation.
4. Exeter: Nature’s Hidden Haven
Exeter, with a population of about 6,600, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is home to the expansive Arcadia Management Area, offering miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. The Queens River and Beach Pond provide opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Exeter’s economy revolves around agriculture and small businesses, preserving its rural atmosphere. The town’s seclusion is due to its vast woodlands and protected natural areas, offering a retreat into nature’s tranquility.
Where is Exeter?
Located in southern Rhode Island, Exeter is accessible via Route 102 and is bordered by West Greenwich and South Kingstown. Its lack of major highways and public transportation contributes to its secluded nature. The town’s commitment to conservation ensures that large swaths of land remain undeveloped. Exeter’s serene forests and quiet roads make it feel like a world apart, perfect for those seeking solitude in nature.
3. New Shoreham on Block Island
New Shoreham, encompassing all of Block Island, is Rhode Island’s smallest town with a population of around 1,000. The island is famed for its dramatic bluffs, sandy beaches like Crescent Beach, and historic lighthouses including Southeast Lighthouse. Visitors can enjoy biking, hiking, and exploring the eclectic shops in Old Harbor. While tourism is a key industry, the island maintains a peaceful ambiance, especially outside peak summer months. New Shoreham’s seclusion comes from its island location and limited accessibility, creating a true getaway experience.
Where is New Shoreham?
Situated approximately 13 miles off Rhode Island’s southern coast, Block Island is accessible by ferry from Point Judith, Newport, and New London, Connecticut, or by small plane. The island’s isolation in the Atlantic Ocean provides a sense of remoteness cherished by visitors and locals alike. With no bridges or tunnels connecting it to the mainland, New Shoreham offers a unique and secluded retreat surrounded by the sea.
2. Foster: The Quiet Countryside
Foster is a small, rural town with a population of around 4,600, characterized by its rolling hills and dense forests. The town is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking in the Foster Land Trust trails and fishing in local ponds. Agriculture, including dairy and horse farms, plays a significant role in the local economy. Foster’s seclusion is due to its sparse population and large tracts of undeveloped land, providing a quiet and peaceful countryside atmosphere.
Where is Foster?
Located along the western border of Rhode Island adjacent to Connecticut, Foster is accessible primarily via Route 6. Its distance from major highways and cities contributes to its secluded feel. The town’s emphasis on preserving open space and rural character ensures that it remains a tranquil escape. Foster’s scenic backroads and lack of urban development make it a perfect spot for those looking to experience the quiet side of Rhode Island.
1. Little Compton: A Coastal Gem
Little Compton, with a population of about 3,500, is a picturesque town offering a peaceful retreat by the sea. Visitors can relax on the serene South Shore Beach or explore the historic Wilbor House Museum. The town is known for its vineyards, such as the acclaimed Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard, where you can enjoy local wines amid scenic landscapes. Agriculture and small businesses shape the local economy, maintaining the town’s rural charm. Little Compton’s seclusion comes from its coastal location, limited commercial development, and absence of major roadways, providing a tranquil environment away from the crowds.
Where is Little Compton?
Nestled in the southeastern corner of Rhode Island, Little Compton borders Massachusetts to the east and is surrounded by the Sakonnet River and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s accessible via Route 77, which meanders through scenic farmland and along the coast. The town’s isolation is heightened by its position off the main thoroughfares and its dedication to preserving its quiet, rural character. Little Compton’s secluded beaches and pastoral landscapes make it a true coastal gem for those seeking serenity.
