This trail debuted in December of 2013 to the public as part of the Nature Conservancy Rhode Island’s purchase of 65 acres of land alongside Camp Varnum to preserve the area from further development as well as to provide and protect further habitat for migratory birds.

Visitors can find the parking area and the start of the trail off of Comorant Point Road. As the trail meanders towards the coast, look for the bird houses in a clearing early on before entering an area of shrubs and trees. The section is marked by boardwalks through the understory — look for more wildlife here.

The path runs parallel along Camp Varnum, an installation for Rhode Island’s National Guard, before dipping towards Narragansett Bay. This section provides a good vantage point of viewing the remnants of a lighthouse that gives the trail its namesake, Whale Rock, which was destroyed by the 1938 Hurricane that devastated portions of the Northeast.

From here, the trail continues until terminating at a small beach — a perfect spot to check out the tidal zone. Do be careful though as strong currents lie right off shore so swimming is not advised.

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Rhode Island offers some of the most consistent and enjoyable surf breaks in the Northeast, and you’ll find one of the most popular spots at Narragansett’s Town Beach.

Summer frequently sees smaller beginner-friendly waves.  The sand-bottomed Town Beach is a great place to rent a board and take a lesson—check out our friends at Warm Winds for rental boards or shop their full inventory of boards for purchase, there’s over 600 of ’em!

The summer crowd finds many beginners of all ages in the water and the vibe is generally friendly.  It should go without saying but make sure you are a confident swimmer and aware of any hazards such as rip currents or powerful waves that can change on a daily basis.

Be aware and watch out for a sunken metal barge located in front of the Dunes beach club, swimmers in the water, and other surfers. On days with bigger waves, more experienced surfers will find that Town Beach offers a surf with a range of moods, from clean and fun to closed out and unmakeable.

Learn the rules of the road before you paddle out and if in doubt, don’t go out. If you do find the waves are bigger than you expected, sit back, enjoy the beach and take in the scene.  You’ll see surfers of all levels ranging from unsteady beginners to seasoned rippers putting on a show up and down the beach. After your session refuel with lunch or a cold drink from Salty’s right on the beach and our favorite iced coffee from Nitro Cart.

Get stocked up for all of your seaside adventures at our brick and mortar locations! You’ll find us with all of the latest Gansett Outfitters gear at either Scarborough State Beach or Misquamicut State Beach between the hours of 9 am to 6 pm, 7 days a week.