Westerly and Watch Hill are about 30 to 40 minutes southwest of Narragansett and make a fantastic day trip. Westerly has several public beaches, including Misquamicut State Beach, one of the largest sandy beaches in Rhode Island. It is a good option if you want space to spread out, with nearby places for food and drinks.
Watch Hill is a small, historic village within the town of Westerly, known for its coastal homes, walkable streets, and harbor views. It has a long-standing reputation as a summer destination, and it is also where Taylor Swift owns a well-known seaside home. Overlooking East Beach, Ocean House is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the area, with a large yellow façade and oceanfront dining that is open to the public if you want to stop in for a drink or meal.
The Flying Horse Carousel is a quick stop, especially if you are with kids. From there, you can walk out toward Napatree Point, a long stretch of protected shoreline with open views of the ocean and Little Narragansett Bay. Plan to spend time walking, grabbing a meal, and sitting by the water. Parking in Watch Hill is limited, so going earlier in the day helps, especially in July and August.