With a three-day summer weekend ahead, what better time to enjoy Rhode Island's beaches! There is enough diversity to satisfy just about anyone -- families, teenagers, or those in search of quiet and solitude. Click here for a listing of state beaches, with details about facilities, fees, parking, and more.

If you want to escape the crowds and traffic, try exploring our state's public access points. Click here for info, but keep in mind, you are on your own at these sites -- no lifeguards or facilities -- and not all of them are safe for swimming.

Another good strategy for avoiding the crowds is to wait until late in the day. After 4 o'clock or so crowds start to thin out, the water is still warm, and the day lingers on. You can even hang around and catch the sunset. Be aware though, that lifeguards go home and facilities are locked up when the beach closes, usually at 6.

Note that RI beaches are now smoke-free! This change aims not only to provide cleaner air, but to cut down on beach litter. Click here for more info.

Lots more to do, from our NNN Community Calendar ...  Tonight, Sea Princess sails out of Wickford for a lighthouse tour on the Bay, hosted by the Audubon Society of RI. Lots of the local farmers markets have special events planned for the holiday weekend. Don't forget about the Zoo, with its new butterfly exhibit, and Saturday beach walks at Goosewing Beach. Find programs for kids at Audubon's refuges. 

On Sunday at 9 a.m., the annual Pawtuxet Cove Kayak Regatta leaves from the Aspray Boat House. Paddlers race north to the Rhode Island Yacht Club, south to Gaspee Point and back to the Boat House. Registration Sun 9 am; starting gun at 10 am. $20 entrance fee. All these activities too much for you? Maybe you need to just kick back, spend some time with friends and family, and enjoy the summer.