Hole-in-the-Rock Road | Escalante

Allen Harbor Marina is a public harbor located in North Kingstown, Rhode Island.

It serves as a mooring and docking facility for recreational and commercial vessels.

Visual Characteristics

The marina consists of a series of fixed and floating docks constructed from treated lumber and aluminum. Water depth varies between 6 and 12 feet at mean low tide. The surrounding shoreline is characterized by a mix of sandy areas and low-lying vegetation. Mooring buoys are also present in designated areas.

Location & Access Logistics

Allen Harbor Marina is situated approximately 3 miles south of the North Kingstown town center. Access is via East Shore Drive, which connects to Route 1A. Ample parking is available in a dedicated lot adjacent to the main dock area. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stop for Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) Route 64 is located 1.5 miles north on Route 1A.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The marina was developed in the mid-20th century to accommodate the growing demand for recreational boating in Narragansett Bay. The area is part of the coastal estuarine system of Rhode Island, characterized by tidal influence and brackish water conditions.

Key Highlights & Activities

Vessel mooring and docking are the primary activities. Kayak and small boat launching is permitted from designated areas. Fishing from the docks is permitted. Transient slips are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms and a pump-out station are available on-site. Limited shade is provided by a small pavilion near the parking area. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable. No food vendors are located directly within the marina; the nearest services are approximately 1 mile north on Route 1A.

Best Time to Visit

The marina is accessible year-round. For optimal boating conditions, the period between May and October is recommended due to warmer water temperatures and calmer weather. Sunrise and sunset offer specific lighting conditions for photography of the harbor.

Facts & Legends

During the colonial era, the waters of Allen Harbor were reportedly used by smugglers to offload goods to avoid taxation. Local lore suggests that remnants of old shipwrecks can still be found in deeper sections of the harbor, though no official surveys confirm this.

Nearby Landmarks

• Fort Adams State Park (10km Northeast)
• Beavertail State Park (8km Southeast)
• Jamestown Windmill (6km Northwest)
• Newport Mansions (12km East)
• Quonset Point Air National Guard Station (4km Southwest)