East Matunuck State Beach Explained

East Matunuck State Beach
Map:USA Rhode Island
Map Size:280
Relief:1
Location:South Kingstown, Rhode Island, United States
Coordinates:41.3764°N -71.5286°W
Area Acre:144
Elevation:3feet
Established:1956
Operator:Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Division of Parks & Recreation
Website:East Matunuck State Beach

East Matunuck State Beach is a public recreation area encompassing on the shore of Block Island Sound in the town of South Kingstown, Rhode Island. The state beach offers picnicking, ocean swimming, and beach activities. It is open seasonally.

At the east end of the beach lies the small village of Jerusalem. Jutting out from the beach is the stone breakwater that protects Point Judith Pond and harbor. It was built in 1914.

History

The state began securing the area through condemnation proceedings beginning in 1956. An additional 36acres parcel was purchased in 1967. A beach pavilion featuring concessions, bathrooms, changing stalls, and a lifeguard tower was built at a cost of $4.5 million and opened in May 2012.

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