The Great Island Story of Narragansett, Rhode Island

On your next trip to Rhode Island, consider staying in the beautiful Narragansett! This stunning town on the Rhode Island coastline offers a little something for everyone, from the countless beautiful beaches to the various lighthouses to museums, family fun parks, wildlife refuges, and so much more.

There are so many fun things to do in Narragansett no matter what you’re interested in, but you should be sure to learn a bit about the area before your stay. Inside the town of Narragansett, there’s an incredible neighborhood called Great Island. This quaint community holds some of our most popular homes for rent in Narragansett, RI, and is simply a “must-see” for anyone planning a Rhode Island vacation! 

Islands in Rhode Island Near Narragansett

While Rhode Island is mostly a contiguous state in the U.S., there are also several islands off the coastline that are definitely worth learning about. Within Narragansett Bay alone, there are over 30 islands! Some of the biggest islands within this bay include Aquidneck Island (which is where you’ll find large municipalities like Middletown and Newport), Conanicut, and Prudence. The popular Block Island is also located within Narragansett Bay.

As a whole, Rhode Island has tons of shoreline for residents and visitors to explore. The island is quite flat with the highest point, Jerimoth Hill, sitting just 812 feet above sea level. It probably won’t surprise you to learn that the state’s nickname is the “Ocean State,” and its incredible oceanfront beaches draw tourists from around the world.

What is The Great Island?

beach with lighthouse in the distance

Despite its extravagant name, Great Island is actually a hidden community within Narragansett. Great Island is located just moments away from the more popular destinations of Point Judith and Galilee, so it’s easy to plan a trip to Great Island while you’re exploring the rest of the area. To get to Great Island, you’ll head down the Galilee Escape Road and turn right, taking you over a small bridge that leads into the community.

Great Island started out as a very small residential community, and it still maintains that small-town feel today. It’s still not too well known by tourists so it’s mostly residential to this day (holding about 360 homes), meaning that you can get an authentic Rhode Island experience during your visit away from the bigger, more touristy parts of town. 

What Can You Do There?

Great Island is one of the areas of Narragansett where you can go to simply get away from it all. There are stunning views of the water from almost anywhere in town, which makes Great Island perfect for taking a romantic stroll with your sweetheart to watch the sun go down. You can also take a leisurely drive down Conch Road, the main street in the neighborhood, to check out the beautiful homes and quaint shops that dot the town.

up close of owl

If you’re an animal lover, you’ll feel right at home on Grand Island. The area is a popular spot for birdwatching, and you might even be able to spot their resident owl! In addition, Grand Island is home to quite a few foxes that like to run around and elude the townspeople. You won’t find any deer here, but the other animals will provide more than enough entertainment for your day.

You can also branch off of Great Island to get to other locations that offer even more privacy. Little Comfort Island, Goose Island, and Potato Island are all quaint communities that are perfect if you want to spend an uninterrupted day on the waters. Of course, you’re also just minutes away from bigger communities like Galilee and Point Judith, where you can visit local restaurants for the freshest seafood around or embark on a historical tour to learn more about the area.

When you head into the nearby neighborhoods, there’s plenty to see and do. Galilee is a popular spot for spending time on the water and is a port stop for the incredible Block Island Ferry. This is also a great spot to secure a fishing charter! Those who are interested in history might be more interested in Point Judith, where you can visit attractions like the Point Judith Lighthouse and the Point Judith Fisherman’s Memorial. If you’re searching for a serene place to watch the waves roll in, head over to Rose Nulman Park.

Great Island Vacation Rentals

If you’re interested in spending extra time on the Great Island, consider one of these Rhode Island cottage rentals right in the neighborhood! Each of these homes is perfect for a family vacation where you just want to escape the city and spend some quality time with your loved ones in a relaxing home with plenty of space and some gorgeous views. 

outside of home

19 Barnacle Road is a 3-bed, 1.5-bath home with a stunning location on the Salt Pond. You’ll have a water view from almost every window in the house, as well as amenities like a private yard, high-speed WiFi, a fully stocked kitchen, and more!

outside of nice home from dock

At 5 Sand Piper Road, your family will enjoy a cozy vacation with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms to share. There’s nothing better than this tranquil setting, the romantic fire pit, and the expansive private deck.

outside of nice home

Right nearby at 11 Sand Piper Road, you’ll find a comfortable 3-bed, 1-bath home. You’ll have all the privacy you crave while still being close to the local beaches, restaurants, shops, and more.

outside of nice home

2 Marine Drive is a cute 2-bed, 1.5-bath rental with unmatched panoramic views of the water. You’ll also have a full kitchen, washer and dryer, stone fireplace, and one of the biggest lots on the island offering more than an acre of lawn!

Plan Your Next Visit

Now that you know a bit more about Great Island, are you ready to book the ultimate vacation? Let us help! Our friendly staff is more than happy to help you decide on the perfect rental cottage for your family to ensure you’ll have everything you need during your stay. Whether you have a question about your rental or you want to know the perfect spot for dinner, we’ve got you covered! Contact us today to learn more about all of our Narragansett rentals and to book yours today!

outside of nice home

Finally, 75 East Shore Road is perfect for slightly larger families with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It’s located on the east side of the Great Island with a beautiful view of the water, and you’ll also have functional features like WiFi, TVs with cable and a DVD player, a gas grill, and others. 

Durkin Cottage Realty

815 Pt. Judith Rd.
Narragansett, RI 02882

Phone: 401-789-6659
Fax: 401-789-6705
info@durkincottages.com
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