The Small Town in Rhode Island That Feels Like The Summer I Turned Pretty

"The Summer I Turned Pretty" by Jenny Han was brought to life when Netflix released the live-action adaptation in 2022. Now in its final season, you may wonder how to cope with the loss of Cousins Beach. Never fear, though, dear readers and watchers, there is a town just beyond the horizon. New Shoreham is the perfect fix when you're looking for a quaint, delightful trip along the shores of the Atlantic.

Growing up in the Midwest, our coastal towns comprise historic lakeside downtowns, cabins, and cottages. And while I adore places like Door County, my heart wasn't prepared for New Shoreham. I had never seen a New England beach town before. It was everything I'd imagined in movies and television—though "The Summer I Turned Pretty" had not yet made its Netflix debut when I visited.

Often synonymous with its home of Block Island, this impossibly charming New England town is the only one on the island. With only 1,000 year-round residents, the small town feels huge when summer rolls around and the tourists roll in. Even with throngs of tourists at the height of the season, this seaside retreat is still a breath of fresh air. Although it doesn't have the grandeur of Cape Cod, which was one of the inspirations for Han's fictional town, it is rich in history and features the same East Coast aesthetic you'd expect in a place like Cousins Beach.

Incorporated in 1672, New Shoreham is a fine wine. Dazzling in miles and miles of nature, including the Hodge Family Wildlife Preserve, there is a serenity here. Its two lighthouses, both well over 100 years old, positioned on either end of the island serve as testaments to the town (and the island's) fortitude and its past. However, you don't have to look far to find historical buildings in this town. For an even closer view of it, you could always stay in the majestic The Spring House. Built in 1852, this magnificent Victorian hotel stands out among the other New England architecture, thanks in no small part to its vibrant red roof.

If you've had enough nature, wander back into town for some quintessential coastal shopping. You'll have your fill of beachy boutiques and unique art, though personally, I love any excuse to explore a small town shop. My New Shoreham favorites were Lazy Fish, Block Island Trading Company, and the aptly named Salty Dog.

While I can't promise you'll fall in love on Block Island, you may fall in love with New Shoreham—especially if you are a foodie. Being on the coast, they have an incredible array of fresh seafood that will make the ferry boat ride back from the island a little more painful. If you haven't been to Rhode Island before and enjoy clam chowder, be sure to try their version. Just don't be surprised when it arrives at your table and the broth is clear, that's what makes it stand out.

Ready to take your own adventure to a coastal town or beyond? Check out the Only In Your State AI Travel Planner to get you started.