Here in the Ocean State, we have so many beautiful places to hike, especially for being such a small state. There are hikes in the forest, by fresh water, and, of course, by the bay and ocean.

Rome Point in North Kingstown is one of my favorite places to hike, as well as one of my favorite places to shoot. It's also a favorite place of many of the families and children I've met as a RI children's photographer. Its beautiful at all times of year (though it is admittedly warmer in summer!), it has a calm bay beach full of rocks and shells, and the northern part of the point is a great place to watch the air show from in June!

It's also a great place for viewing seals in late winter and early spring. This is such a fun adventure for kids: you can see so many seals (almost) right in your backyard, no need to go to the aquarium!

On a recent early spring day, I hiked down the path and up the beach at Rome Point in the hopes that I would see some seals that day. Follow along on my adventure with the video, and be sure to read below for some tips on planning your visit to Rome Point to see seals!

Planning your trip to Rome Point to see the seals:

Rome Point is officially named John H. Chafee Nature Preserve, and is located on Boston Neck Rd. in Saunderstown, just south of Gilbert Stuart Rd. There is a parking area right off Boston Neck Rd.
This time of year (early April) is perfect for viewing seals! Check the Rome Point Seals website before your visit to be sure that the seals are still hanging out on the rocks and haven't moved on.
The best time to go is mid-low to low tide. You can check the tides for the day here.
Wear comfortable walking shoes. The walk down the bath to the beach is fairly easy. The walk to the point where the seals are is about the same length; the terrain is somewhat rocky (and full of nice shells to collect) so it's best to wear something you are fine with walking in.
Bring binoculars! The seals are several hundred feet offshore on rocks. They can be seen with the naked eye, but are a bit distant, and you can see them much better with binoculars.
If you'd like to take photos, bring a DSLR or point and shoot with a longer zoom lens if you have one.
Bring a reusable bag for all the shells and rocks that your little ones (and maybe you) will collect. You might even find some sea glass!

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