There’s something about dropping anchor in a quiet cove. The gentle sway of the boat, the sun sparkling on the water, the world slowing down just enough to notice it. Narragansett Bay has plenty of spots like this, each with its own character and charm. Some are perfect for a quick swim, others for a lazy afternoon or an overnight under the stars. In this post, we’re highlighting a handful of favorite anchorages, sharing practical tips for anchoring, swimming, and stepping ashore. From the serene inlets of Prudence Island to the family-friendly sands of Third Beach in Middletown, these coves capture the best of boating in the bay.
Potter Cove, Prudence Island: A Quiet Retreat
Dropping anchor in Potter Cove is like hitting pause. The mud bottom holds well, the dinghy ride to shore is easy, and the northeast inlets, Coggeshall and Sheep Pen, offer quiet spots to linger for a few hours. On the western side, just north of Prudence Park, a nearly mile-long sandy beach invites a swim or a stroll. There are no public moorings, and the tide-sensitive Sandy Point and Rossi docks are limited, so anchoring is your best bet. Check your depth, respect your neighbors, and settle in for a lazy afternoon or a night under the stars.
Mackerel Cove, Jamestown: A Scenic Escape
There’s an effortless elegance to dropping anchor at Mackerel Cove, Jamestown’s cozy town beach. With depths around 15–30 ft and a sandy bottom offering reliable holding, it’s an inviting spot for both a lazy afternoon and an occasional overnight stay. Just steer clear of southerly winds and you’re in for a peaceful float. Anchor away from the designated swimming zone. The sheltered shoreline and distant view of the East Passage provide a tranquil backdrop, perfect for swimming, fishing, or slipping into a dinghy for a quick stroll ashore. Just remember to register your overnight stay with the harbor master and stay get-ready-to-move alert. Jamestown ordinances limit anchoring to three nights unless granted special permission.
Blue Bill Cove, Portsmouth
Blue Bill Cove in Portsmouth is a calm, sheltered spot that’s perfect for spending a few hours at anchor. Anchoring is allowed here, just keep clear of private moorings and observe the no-wake zone. Depths are generally manageable, with a sandy bottom for good holding. Boaters can dock at Sunset Cove restaurant to grab a bite, enjoy ice cream, or listen to live music on weekends. Another nearby option is 15 Point Road, which offers a small dock for patrons, serving locally sourced seafood and farm-fresh dishes with scenic waterfront views. The cove is compact, so space can be tight on busy summer days, and it’s worth checking wind direction before settling in. Whether stopping for a quick swim or stretching your legs ashore, Blue Bill Cove offers an easy, low-stress break in a prime location.
Third Beach, Middletown: Family-Friendly Fun
Third Beach in Middletown is a calm, sandy-bottomed cove that’s ideal for a few hours or overnight. Anchoring is allowed, but overnight stays are restricted to designated areas and require approval from the Harbormaster. The shallow, protected waters make it easy to swim or launch a dinghy, and the shoreline is perfect for a quiet stroll or a picnic. There are no public docks or restaurants immediately accessible, so most boaters plan to bring provisions onboard. The cove is most popular on summer weekends, so it’s worth checking wind and weather conditions before dropping anchor. With its tranquil setting and safe anchoring, Third Beach is a simple, low-stress spot to enjoy Narragansett Bay.
Whether you’re seeking a quiet afternoon anchored in a sheltered cove, a refreshing swim, or an overnight escape under the stars, these spots provide a refreshing contrast to the hustle and bustle of Newport Harbor. So, set sail and discover the secret corners of Narragansett Bay that make Newport a boater’s paradise.
