Timeline
15:55
Start at Rough Point. This historic site houses Doris Duke’s eclectic art collection in one of Newport’s finest "cottages." It is a quiet, elevated spot to stretch your legs and begin your walk westward.
16:20
Walk to the northeast end of Bailey’s Beach. You will find a fence separating the private club from the public section, locally known as Reject's Beach. This is your vantage point. The beach is free, open from sunrise to sunset daily, and offers a clear view of the water to the west.
16:40
Watch the sun set toward the WSW. In winter, this happens around 16:40. In spring and summer, it shifts slightly westward and occurs later, around 19:25 in April and 20:17 in July. The golden light begins roughly an hour before these times, casting a warm glow over the water.
17:10
Stay for the fading light. The beach remains accessible until sunset. Since there are no concessions or public parking available at this specific section, you will need to check the route for a place to eat or drink before you arrive next time, or head back to Rough Point to explore the grounds further as the evening cools.
Local tip
Bailey's Beach is private, but the northeast end is accessible to the public. There are no tennis courts, parking, or concessions available to the public in this section. Plan your food and drink before you arrive.
Check before you go
- Bailey’s Beach is open from sunrise to sunset daily.
- The public section is separated by a fence.
- No public concessions or parking are available at the public end.
- Sunset times vary by season: 16:40 in January, 19:25 in April, 20:17 in July.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Newport (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).