Newport Cliff Walk

The Basics

The long and winding Newport Cliff Walk, a National Recreation Trail in a National Historic District, is a great way to see both the architecture and natural beauty of Newport in one experience. The walk is mostly paved—parts of the trail’s southern half are unpaved and ramble over the rocky shoreline—and offers better views of the Newport mansions than you can get by walking the town’s streets. There are photo-worthy vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding shores too, and it’s a lovely place to watch dramatic seaside sunsets.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The entire walk takes about two to three hours.

• The walk’s southern portion, over rugged New England shoreline, is taken at your own risk. Proper hiking shoes are a must.

• The walk is a public right-of-way over private land; do not attempt to approach the homes, as they are private property.

• Bikes are not allowed on the walk. Bike racks are available at Narragansett Avenue.

• Strollers and wheelchairs are allowed only on the northern part of the Cliff Walk.

How to Get There

The Newport Cliff Walk runs from the western end of Easton’s Beach (locals call it First Beach) to the eastern end of Bailey’s Beach. There are public access points at Ledge Road, Marine Avenue, Bellevue Avenue, Ruggles Avenue, Webster Street, Narragansett Avenue, and Sheppard Avenue. Upon completion of the walk, you can catch the trolley back to 1st Beach for a nominal fee.

When to Get There

The walk is open year-round and is more crowded in the summer, when the vacation crowds descend on Newport. Set out for an early-morning stroll or run, or catch the sunset when most people are in town for dinner. The unpaved southern sections of the walk can be treacherous in winter or on stormy days; proceed with extreme caution or not at all.

Photography on the Newport Cliff Walk

The vantage points and ocean views along the walk allow for some of the coast’s best photography. Professional photographers recommend getting to the area early in the morning or at the “golden hour” in the late afternoon.

Ways to explore

Walking the entire length of Newport Cliff Walk takes about 1.5 hours—more if you’re planning to stop along the way to check out mansions and other sites. You can start at the main trailheads at Memorial Boulevard or Bellevue Avenue, but there are also entry points at Narragansett Avenue, Webster Street, Ruggles Avenue, Marine Avenue, and Ledge Road. Tours are a popular option for travelers who want more insight into the landmarks and history along the Newport Cliff Walk, with options that range from expert-led tours to independent walks with a GPS-enabled audio guide.

Accessibility

While the path is not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the section between Memorial Boulevard and Narragansett Avenue is paved and suitable for some wheelchair users.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Binoculars, camera, walking poles

What to wear

Changeable coastal conditions mean that layered clothing is a must at any time of year—bring a bathing suit if you plan to swim at the end.

Not allowed

Off-leash dogs, smoking

Amenities

Restrooms, informational plaques

Address 

The northern tip of the Newport Cliff Walk is located on Memorial Boulevard, near the western edge of Easton’s Beach. It ends on Bellevue Avenue at Bailey Beach. There are multiple entry points, though only a handful have parking.

Driving

If you’re arriving in Newport from the west on Route 138, follow Malbone Avenue and Rhode Island Avenue to Memorial Boulevard. Metered parking is available at Easton’s Beach and Narragansett Avenue.

Public transportation

Route 67 on Newport’s free hop-on hop-off trolley runs seasonally and stops at several locations along the Cliff Walk, including the end point at Bailey’s Beach. Service is every 30 minutes, starting late morning.

Best times to visit

Early morning and late afternoon are beautiful on the Newport Cliff Walk. Head to the 40 Steps or Easton’s Beach for sunrise, and Bailey’s Beach at sunset.

Best days to visit

Weekends get busy during Newport’s summer high season, so consider a weekday walk when possible.

Best months to visit

Warm weather in July and August keeps Newport beaches and trails full, but the quieter—and still mild—months of September and October are gorgeous for less-crowded seaside walks.

Special events

The Newport Flower Show is held at Rosecliff mansion in June, with extraordinary floral art on display steps from the Newport Cliff Walk.