Garie Beach

What are the best public beaches (for swimming) in Rhode Island?

I'm thinking of taking a weekend trip to Rhode Island (I'm from New York). I'm most interested in going to New Port, but I havne't heard much in regards to their beaches. Does New Port have public swimming beaches? If so, are they decent? Are they cold (like Cape Cod)? How is the sand and seaweed situation? If New Port doesn't have nice beaches, which other Rhode Island (or Connecticut) beaches would you recommend?

Public Comments

1. If you're going to be in the newport area, I strongly suggest going to the Middletown beaches which is right near the newport beach...middletown one is a little less crowded and less agae or stuff in the water...It's cold since the water is straight from the Atlantic and the waves are alot bigger than you'd find on the Cape. That's just my suggestion though, it's my favorite beach to go to when I'm in newport...enjoy!
2. Newport has great beaches Here's a link http://www.destinationnewport.com/beach.asp