The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has announced that Scarborough North and Salty Brine state beaches in Narragansett will be open on weekends starting May 10 through Memorial Day. Lifeguards will be on duty, and facilities such as bathrooms and concessions will be available during this period. All other state beaches, except Roger Wheeler, are set to open daily from May 24 until Labor Day.
Governor Dan McKee emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness at the beaches: “Rhode Island’s spectacular state beaches are part of what makes living in the Ocean State so special,” he said. He urged beachgoers to contribute to keeping the shores clean and litter-free.
Terry Gray, DEM Director, highlighted the opportunity for residents to enjoy the coastline after a long winter. “Whether you’re swimming, relaxing, or spending time with friends and family, now is the perfect time to enjoy Rhode Island’s coastline,” he noted. He also advised purchasing beach parking passes in advance for a smooth visit.
Roger Wheeler State Beach is undergoing significant renovations and will open later than usual on June 14. Construction will pause during the 2025 beach season, but visitors should expect some areas to have rocky sand and fenced-off zones due to ongoing work.
Beach season parking passes are priced at $30 for residents and $60 for non-residents, with discounted rates available for seniors. Passes can be purchased online or in-person at DEM’s new office at Fishermen’s Memorial State Park & Campground before Memorial Day. Season pass holders can benefit from express lanes for faster access.
DEM is also hiring seasonal staff including lifeguards, park rangers, visitor assistants, and natural resource operations personnel. Lifeguard positions offer hourly pay ranging from $18.75 to $20.00 with potential bonuses based on employment duration.
For more information about DEM programs and initiatives or to apply for seasonal positions, visit their website or follow them on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.
