Edition #8, 14 January 2008

Hello, my name is Cynthia, a mermaid from the waters of New England. Thank you for visiting my website on coastal New England. A new article is posted here every other Monday.

If you missed any of my previous features, you can find links to them here.

Located in the southeastern portion of the state, Newport occupies the southern most portion of the island known as Rhode Island, where the state got its name. A map is available here.

During the 1800's, Newport attracted a number of wealthy individuals who built lavish mansions. They were used almost exclusively for the purpose of entertaining during the summer months. These mansions allow today's visitors to see what life was like for these wealthy barons. Most of the mansions can be seen along Bellevue Avenue, and most have their own website where you can find out more before your visit. In addition to tours, the mansions are used for wedding receptions.

 

Newport offers a number of beaches where you can join me in the ocean. Easton's Beach, also known as First Beach, features a 3/4 mile beach with lifeguards, outdoor showers, equipment and bathhouse rentals, volleyball, picnic tables, and a snack bar. There are designated areas for surfing and windsurfing. The beach is located on Memorial Boulevard, to the east of downtown.

Fort Adams State Beach on Harrison Avenue features a small picnic area with barbecue grills, lifeguards, a public boat ramp, and a fishing pier. Free parking for 400 cars is available.

The King Park Swim Area on Wellington Avenue consists of 100 feet of pebbly beach. Beach shoes are recommended. Features include a covered pavillion with picnic tables and grills, restrooms, benches, and a playground for the kids. Parking is free along Wellington Avenue and vicinity.

Gooseberry Beach on Ocean Avenue features soft sand, lifeguards, restrooms, showers, changing areas, and a place for light meals. Paid parking is available. Note that this beach is not operated by the city.

From February 15th through the 24th, Newport will be holding its 20th annual Winter Festival. The celebration features over 160 individual events including a series of concerts, pizza and chili cookoffs, and ice sculpting competitions. Details on the Winter Festival may be found here. If you need any help eating all that pizza, give me a call.

A stay in a local inn or B&B provides a welcome change from the usual hotel or motel. Enjoy beautiful surroundings with antiques, air conditioning, and a full breakfast. Many provide high speed internet access, so you can send me an email while you are there.

The best way to enjoy downtown is on foot - unless you're a mermaid of course. When you get hungry from all that walking around, you will be glad to hear that there is no shortage of great restaurants in Newport. May I suggest the seafood?

More information on this beautiful city may be found by visiting www.gonewport.com and www.newportri.com.

Until next time, remember that time is worth more than money. Spend it wisely.

If you own a business and would like to sponsor a future article, please write to me for details.

Find out how you can do your part to Keep Oceans Clean!

Love,
Cynthia