Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge — Attraction in Middletown

A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers

Located in Middletown, Rhode Island, Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Very close to Newport cliff walk

Here's what you can expect:

Pros:

Diverse Wildlife: Spot over 200 species of birds, including harlequin ducks, loons, eiders, and gannets. Scenic Trails: Explore nearly 3 miles of trails, offering stunning views of the coastline and surrounding habitats. Variety of Habitats: Discover salt marshes, grasslands, sandy beaches, and dunes, each with unique plants and animals. Excellent Birdwatching: Take advantage of elevated observation platforms and knowledgeable staff to enhance your birding experience. Family-Friendly: Suitable for visitors of all ages, with accessible trails and educational resources.

Cons:

Limited Amenities: No restrooms available outside of Visitor Center hours; plan accordingly. Weather Conditions: Be prepared for variable weather, including high wave action and potential road closures.

Tips and Recommendations:

Visit the Visitor Center: Start or end your visit with a stop at the Visitor Center for exhibits, restrooms, and a gift shop. It’s very beautifully kept! Bring Binoculars: Enhance your birdwatching experience with a good pair of binoculars. Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals and respect their natural habitats.

Overall Experience:

Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem for nature lovers, offering a unique and enriching experience. With its diverse wildlife, scenic trails, and variety of habitats, it's a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the...

Occupying a peninsula between the Sakonnet River and Rhoda Island sound, the 242 acre Sachuest a point National Wildlife Refuge is renowned for its fantastic saltwater Fishing, and the presence of the largest winter population of harlequin ducks 🦆 on the East Coast. Once a horse racing area, then a Naval communications site, and now a National wildlife refuge, the area is steeped in history.

Nearly 3 Billion Birds Gone From bird 🦅 population since 1970. Coastal shorebirds have lost more than one third of their population in 40 years. Hard to believe it until I read at the posting while we visited this place on one of the fine summer morning on July 29, 2022.

We explored the surroundings via Flint point trails which is an easy scenic trail and provides an opportunity to see different birds, 🐌, rabbit on the way. The sea shore access with benches adds to the overall experience. A couple of observations deck provided a 360 degree view of ocean / nature. Highly recommended for kids who wants to enjoy outdoor and learn about nature.

Ample parking is available at the visitor center (10:00 am - 2:00 everyday. However temporarily not operating on Wednesday due to lack of volunteers). Restrooms through side door available daily 6:30 🕡am - 6:30 pm. There is a small gift shop run by the Friends of the national wildlife refuges of RI. The exhibits in the visitor center is...

I absolutely love it here. I pretty much had found it by accident while just cruising around Newport and it's to the point where I no longer make travel plans to Newport, I make travel plans to Sachuest Point. Sometimes you'll find an abundance of rabbits hopping about the trails, which are adorable. You can come across a variety of wildlife, hawks, eagles, owls, foxes. A lot of creatures make this their homes, some just for a season and others for longer, so you never know what you'll find. I remember the last time I visited, bird watchers were there in hordes to see an owl that had nested there. It's wonderful to walk around the place, often surrounded by overgrown hedges and whatnot, which are often trimmed outside of the summer season.

It's a lovely way to unwind and if you're there during the tourist season and need to get away from the traffic and crowded beaches and shopping centers, definitely make this refuge your...