In the bay between Newport [1] and South County [2] is Jamestown, which is actually an island called Conanicut. The downtown area is close to a ferry landing that brings visitors to and from Newport in the spring, summer, and fall, and it claims several worthwhile eateries and places to stay.
More rugged travelers bypass the main drag and head straight for the island’s 150-acre Beavertail State Park (401/423-9941, www.riparks.com/beaverta1.htm [3], sunrise– sunset daily, free). Blessed with beautiful views of coastline and a picturesque lighthouse, the park is a favorite destination for hikers and picnickers.
Oyster lovers find bliss at the friendly and bare-bones Jamestown Oyster Bar (22 Narragansett Ave., 401/423-3380, 11:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Sun.–Thu.; 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri.–Sat., $7–18). The pub-meets-bistro ambience makes it the perfect place to slurp bivalves fresh from local waters.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/new-england/rhode-island/newport-and-south-county/newport-and-vicinity/newport
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/new-england/rhode-island/newport-and-south-county/south-county
[3] http://www.riparks.com/beaverta1.htm