The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is urging the public to purchase their 2025 state beach season parking passes in advance. According to DEM, purchasing passes ahead of time can significantly reduce wait times at entry booths. DEM starts selling these passes online annually in January, providing ample time before beach season begins.
Governor Dan McKee supports the initiative, stating, “For many Rhode Islanders and visitors alike, the cold days of winter and rainy days of spring have everyone longing for the upcoming beach season at the Ocean State’s spectacular state beaches. The more beachgoers who buy their parking passes ahead of time, the faster we’ll all be able to get on our beautiful beaches during the busy summer ahead.”
Terry Gray, DEM Director, added, “Now is the time to plan for this summer’s hazy, hot, and humid beach days ahead by buying your 2025 state beach season parking pass for some of the best beaches around. Beach parking passes make a great gift for loved ones, friends, and co-workers any time of year, while offering quicker access to beach lots during the busy summer season.”
Passes can be purchased online at www.beachparkingri.com. Resident passes cost $30, non-resident passes are $60, resident senior passes are $15, and non-resident senior passes are $30. No-cost disability beach parking passes are available for those eligible. Season passes are non-refundable and linked electronically to the purchaser’s license plate, allowing for express lane access at most state beaches. New this year, returning customers without changes in registration information can skip the verification process.
Roger Wheeler State Beach is undergoing a major makeover, with construction expected to pause during the 2025 beach season. The beach will open later than usual this year, on Saturday, June 14th, with certain sections remaining rocky and fenced-off due to ongoing construction efforts.
In addition to the online service, a new office location for in-person purchases is expected to open at Fishermen’s Memorial State Park & Campground in Narragansett before Memorial Day. Express lanes will be available to season pass holders at most state beaches, enhancing the efficiency of beach access, with entry confirmed through license plate recognition technology managed by LAZ Parking.
For further information, contact RI State Parks Headquarters or visit DEM’s website at www.dem.ri.gov. Updates can also be found on DEM’s social media platforms.
