Portsmouth vacation rentals

A classic coastal town

The quaint coastal community of Portsmouth was founded in the early 17th century by dissenters of the Boston colony. Fast forward a few hundred years and the town now enjoys a boom in tourism. Weekend vacationers descend upon the town to visit the historic sites, launch their yachts from the marina, browse the antique and boutique shops and swing their clubs on the public golf courses. There's plenty of Portsmouth vacation rentals in the heart of the town which you can use as a base to explore the wonderful part of Rhode Island.

Ornate gardens in Portsmouth

Do all those activities sound like too much effort? No problem. Your Portsmouth vacation rental is close to some fascinating sites. Kids will love the Green Animals Topiary Garden, a park stretching across a gorgeous estate and is adorned with towering, impeccably pruned hedges shaped like animals, as well as a little orchid. Be sure to visit the Old School House, the oldest in the country, which is preserved in much the same way as it was over a century ago. Located on the Sakonnet River, the Greenvale Vineyards opens its doors for tastings and tours of the vineyard throughout the year.

Splash around in the calm bay waters

Just down the road from Portsmouth vacation rentals, you'll find Sandy Point Beach. It's located on the Sakoneet River which keeps the waters calm and makes for the perfect spot for splashing around, rowing and even scuba diving. Each year, Portsmouth hosts the annual Newport Polo Series, an international competition across acres of manicured greenery. Pack up a picnic and head down with the whole family to get involved in the summer event. Alternatively, check into Carnegie Abbey, a high-end club offering yachting, angling, tennis and a championship style golf course.

Famously changeable New England weather

With such a variety of indoor attractions and outdoor activities, there's no need to worry about Rhode Island's famously changeable weather. If you manage to bag a Portsmouth vacation rental in the summer, you'll most likely get treated to gorgeous sunny weather cooled by the breeze from the sea. The fall is short but full of color, after which the cold New England winter begins. Don't let this put you off visiting. Portsmouth vacation rentals can be enjoyed all year round, as can the warm restaurants, cozy bars and Rhode Island hospitality.

Hear the song of the saltmarsh sparrow

For wildlife lovers there's nothing better than just south of your Portsmouth vacation rental to the natural wildlife refuge of Sachuest Point. The salt marsh habitat, created from the mix of fresh and tidal waters, and the shrubland made up of goldenrods and wild radish teem with species. Though on the decline, you can still spot the population of New England cottontail rabbits who vie for land with the more adaptable eastern cottontails. The bright plumage of the Harlequin duck is a sight to see, and you can hear the song of the saltmarsh sparrow everywhere you go.

Traveling to and around Portsmouth

The nearest airport is in T.F. Green Airport (PVD), located 12.9 mi (20.7 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could also fly into Newport, RI (NPT-Newport State), which is 5.2 mi (8.3 km) away.