Come for the day,
or spend the night.
Come for the day
Explore beautiful Rose Island! Our guides greet you at the dock with historical insights and are available for questions. Tour the fully restored lighthouse museum, featuring rooms preserved as if still inhabited by keepers of old. Wander the historic gardens and grounds, rich in natural beauty and history. Take in stunning views of Narragansett Bay, the Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge, and passing sailboats. The lighthouse, powered by solar energy and rainwater collection, offers an unforgettable glimpse into another era!
HOURS
10:00 am – 4:00 pm daily from April - October (or off season by special request).
From March 1 to August 15, nesting bird season limits access to the wildlife refuge on Rose Island. During this period, access is restricted to the lighthouse grounds, beaches adjacent to the lighthouse, and the Fort Hamilton Barracks. After August 15, the entire wildlife refuge and island perimeter are open for exploration. Please respect all posted signs.
COST
Adult Admission $12
Child Admission (under 12) $8
Military Active or Veteran Admission $10
Members Admission FREE
Getting to Rose Island
Take the Jamestown-Newport Ferry to Rose Island with scenic stops en route. Purchase your Rose Island admission fee along with your ferry ticket. Check the ferry schedule and buy tickets on the website.
*If you are an overnight guest, we provide you transportation on our boat Rose, which is included in your nightly rate.
No anchoring or tying up at the dock is permitted. Visitors may bring small vessels onto the beach adjacent to the dock.
Getting to the island on kayak and other small paddle or sail craft is also allowed. Please keep in mind we are 1-mile from shore in the middle of the bay. Please check up-to-date weather conditions including winds and tides to assess if paddling will be a safe option and follow all safety guidelines.
THINGS TO DO
Explore Rose Island with these exciting activities:
Tour the historic lighthouse and Fort Hamilton barracks (guided tours available in season).
Wander through gardens teeming with natural flora, fauna, and coastal wildlife.
Search for treasures in the beaches and explore tidal pools.
Fish from the rocks or gather mussels during low tide.
Have a picnic lunch and remember to "pack it in & pack it out."
Relax in our comfortable Adirondack chairs with stunning views.
Birdwatching enthusiasts can spot great egrets, snowy egrets, herons, ibis, oystercatchers, and more (remember, nesting birds are protected).
Beginning annually on August 15, explore the island's perimeter and wildlife refuge trails—mind the signs and tides. The island's interior, once part of the Newport Naval Torpedo Station, holds historic ruins—wear appropriate footwear and explore cautiously
OVERNIGHT RESERVATIONS
Rose Island Lighthouse and Fort Hamilton Trust invites you to stay with us for a night, or two, or a full week! This 18-acre island paradise possesses many charming qualities, but one of its finest is the quiet solitude found along our walking trails that meander through the property.
BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH A BOOKING, WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO REVIEW OUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.
VISIT OUR AMAZING LOCATION
The historic light station, with its fully restored 1870 keeper’s lighthouse, is nestled on Narragansett Bay, just minutes by ferry from the coast of Newport, Rhode Island. Come explore, relax and learn this one-of-a-kind paradise – a place where Rose Island Lighthouse memories are waiting to be treasured.