Wickford is also a working harbor for lobster and fishing boats. Photo/Tom Richardson

Richard Smith knew a good thing when he saw it. In 1637, the intrepid settler from Massachusetts built a large house overlooking what is now Wickford’s Mill Cove, then known to the Narragansett Indians as “Cocumscussoc.” The structure, which was rebuilt in 1678 by Smith’s son after the original home was burned during King Phillips War, still stands on what remains one of the most idyllic spots in Rhode Island.

Just as “Smith’s Castle” (so named because it was a large, fortified structure) has endured, so does much of what makes Wickford—a village of North Kingstown—such a special place to visit, especially by boat. These days, a host of marinas, shops, restaurants, and summer events make it one of the top boating destinations on Narragansett Bay.

Located just south of Quonset Point, Wickford is easy to reach from other Narragansett Bay ports, as well as Block Island Sound, and offers one of the most protected harbors in the region. Shortly after clearing the two breakwaters protecting Wickford Harbor, you have the choice of entering either Wickford Cove to port or Mill Cove to starboard. Both provide easy access to Wickford Village.

Daytrippers have it pretty good here, as the town dock at the head of Wickford Cove allows a two-hour tie-up at no charge—not something you find in every boating destination these days. If you wish to stay longer, the town maintains a handful of free transient moorings behind the southern breakwater that are available on first-come, first-served basis. However, they are not exactly convenient to the waterfront.

If you’re willing to pay for that convenience, Wickford’s marinas stand ready to accommodate. At the head of Wickford Cove is the sprawling Wickford Shipyard, offering over 100 slips, moorings, a fuel dock, showers, laundry, service, a pool, and storage. A bit deeper into the harbor is the full-service Safe Harbor Wickford Cove Marina. It has space for transient boaters, but reservations are recommended. The marina features laundry, showers, fuel, ice, and many other amenities.

Boaters who find Wickford Cove too busy can always opt to stay on peaceful Mill Cove. Here, the NorthWick Boatyard, welcomes visitors with slips, moorings, and a launch ramp. You can also tie up for a few hours or a week at Wickford Marina, which can accommodate boats up to 100 feet. If you need fuel or haul-out, Pleasant Street Wharf has you covered.

A couple walks in Historic Wickford. Photo/Andrea Zimmerman

Once ashore, you’ll find an array of shops and restaurants in charming Wickford Village. Architecture aficionados will appreciate the well-preserved 18th and 19th century buildings built during Wickford’s seemingly unlikely past as a shipping port. And if you’re traveling in July, you won’t want to miss New England’s longest running art festival, with more than 200 artists showcasing their work in every medium imaginable.

During your stay, consider taking a kayak or paddleboard lesson, or renting one, at the Kayak Centre, known for its top-notch instructors and equipment. Mill Cove, Mill Creek, and Fishing Cove in particular are scenic and protected paddling venues, and you can beach your ‘yak or SUP on Cornelius Island for a swim or picnic.

If you travel with bikes, you can pedal down Post Road to nearby Davisville to visit the Seabee Museum, which pays tribute to the men and women who provided critical military infrastructure from 1942 to 1994. The Quonset hut was developed at this very spot, and you’ll see plenty of them at the museum.

So, whether your interest lies in military history or Colonial history, kayaking or fishing, sailing or powerboating, Wickford stands ready to accommodate all comers. Pay it a visit and see it for yourself.