- As Americans return to travel, many are looking for destinations that are close to home, according to Airbnb.
- Dotted with quaint coastal towns and historic sites, Rhode Island is a hidden gem for those looking for an East Coast road trip.
- One of the least populated states in the US, Rhode Island offers all the makings for an ideal socially distant vacation with plenty of outdoor activities.
- We compiled a list of affordable, well-located Airbnbs in Rhode Island with top ratings for cleanliness, comfort, and host communication.
- Read more: Which is safer: Airbnb or hotels? Here’s what doctors say
The US may be slowly opening up to travel, but hopping on a plane to head off to an international destination is likely still a ways away for many.
Luckily, there is no shortage of beautiful spots to visit domestically that easily reachable by car. Indeed, according to Airbnb data, many Americans are looking for destinations that are within 200 miles from home.
If you’re considering a summer road trip along the East Coast, Rhode Island is well worth a visit for its stunning coastal towns, historic villages, and outdoor experiences. Enjoy sandy beaches in summer, colorful foliage in fall, and cozy winter activities. It’s the smallest state in the US, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for with vibrant offerings, from the Newport Cliffs to quaint Pawtuxet village, and the creative capital of Providence.
And if you're wondering if travel is safe, experts consider private vacation homes, such as those on Airbnb, as one of the safer places to stay, especially when compared to hotels. This is because you are often booking an entire home protected from interaction with others.
Airbnb also announced rigorous new procedures including the Enhanced Cleaning Protocol, which includes guidelines on personal protective equipment for hosts or cleaners, as well as only using disinfectants approved by regulatory authorities. These listings maintain a 24-waiting period after a guest checks out before entering to clean, followed by another 24-hour waiting period before guests check-in. As an alternative measure, hosts may opt into Booking Buffer, which enforces a 72-hour vacancy period between stays. Or, hosts can choose to do neither, in which case, it's important to remember that cleaning practices vary, where everything from kitchen utensils to bed linens were used by previous guests.
While road trips might seem low risk, and experts consider rental cars to be largely safe, it's important to remember that without a vaccine, there is no firm guarantee to safety. It's crucial to follow guidelines and advice from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and practice safety measures including wearing a mask, washing your hands, and maintaining social distancing. Additionally, consider your own level of risk, and whether you're traveling from or to a hotspot, so as not to increase the rate of infection. The situation is also fast evolving, so check for mandatory quarantine periods before booking, both in your destination and upon your return. Up-to-date information on Rhode Island policies is available here.
However, if you're looking for a getaway steeped in fall foliage, a cozy winter cabin, or a summer beach house, we searched through Airbnbs in Rhode Island and selected the following homes based on these criteria:
- The Airbnb listing is for the entire home.
- The home is priced under $250 (excluding additional fees) per night to start.
- All Airbnbs have an average rating of 4.8 or higher.
- Airbnbs have received exceptional reviews for cleanliness, hospitality, and communication of hosts, with prime locations on the coast or near Providence.
These Airbnbs range from sleek apartments to cozy cabins, waterfront studios, chic townhomes, and reinvented barns. All priced under $250 nightly, but it's worth noting that cleaning and service fees vary widely from one Airbnb to another, especially post-pandemic, and many homes are also enacting minimum night stays and strict cancellation policies.
We've also included information for each Airbnb on their specific cleaning procedures to better inform your decision.
These are the best Airbnbs in Rhode Island, sorted by price from low to high.
Greenville: Tiny home by the lake, $86
Book this Greenville tiny home starting at $86 per night
This one-bed, one-bath cottage may be small, but past reviewers guarantee it has everything you could possibly need including a kitchen equipped with spices, cooking utensils, a microwave, and more. The bathroom contains essentials and toiletries, and there's even a washer/dryer stocked with complimentary detergent if you'd like to run the sheets through the wash prior to using them.
The home is well-positioned for walks to the nearby beach and lake, or spend time relaxing on the private outdoor deck. In the evenings, take advantage of the 46" smart TV and Wi-Fi, and you can even customize your indoor experience from remote-control temperature settings and control the brightness and color of the built-in fireplace.
The cottage is only a 15-minute drive from Providence and a 40-minute drive from Newport. There are limited dates available in August, September, and October, and plenty of dates available from November onwards.
Rating: 4.99
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Pawtuxet: Waterfront cottage, $96
Book this Pawtuxet cottage starting at $96 per night
This charming Airbnb is located right in the heart of Pawtuxet Village and is just a 2-minute walk from charismatic restaurants, shops, and more.
Toast to your arrival with a complimentary bottle of wine provided by the host, and enjoy exclusive access to a large backyard patio, as well as an open front porch with views of the water. There is also a washer and dryer, full kitchen, and workspace if you're seeking a new WFH base.
With a queen-sized bed and a sleeper sofa, the home is large enough to accommodate four people. Previous guests praise the responsiveness of the host, coziness of the unit, and exceptional cleanliness.
It's worth noting that the host operates a separate Airbnb listing on the second floor of the house, but there is a separate, private entrance for that listing.
Dates are available starting at the end of August.
Rating: 4.84
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: The host does not participate in an official Airbnb cleaning policy, but has stated that in light of COVID-19, they clean and disinfect the entire unit after each guest's stay, and also wash and bleach linens and towels. Guests have the ability to check-in via keyless entry.
Scituate: Rural glamping getaway, $125
Book this Scituate glamping cabin starting at $125 per night
This tiny house marries the comforts of a well-appointed home with the rustic appeal of camping or, as is more likely the case here, glamping.
The cabin is a short 25-minute drive from Providence but feels totally isolated and remote in the rural town of Scituate, set on 20+ acres of land on the outskirts of the woods. Past guests have mentioned spotting wildlife such as deer and turkeys in the past.
The woodsy home contains all the modern essentials you'd want with electricity, AC, heating, and hot showers. There is also a mini kitchenette with basic cooking utensils, a hot plate, toaster oven, and a refrigerator. With one lofted bed, it's a great getaway for a couple looking to escape to the outdoors.
There is no Wi-Fi, but guests can instead spend their evenings unwinding by the outdoor fire pit, relaxing in the hammock, or exploring nearby walking trails.
The cabin has available dates midweek in September, with greater availability, including weekends, beginning in October.
Rating: 5
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Providence: Midcentury apartment, $135
Book this Providence apartment starting at $135 per night
Located on the east side of Providence, this mid-century style apartment is cheerful and uplifting with its bright yellow walls and turquoise cabinetry.
Located near Brown University and RISD, there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes in the neighborhood, as well as outdoor parks and green spaces.
Apartment highlights include a full kitchen with appliances, a complimentary beverage station (tea, coffee, hot chocolate), shower products, and a FioS smart TV.
While the unit is totally private, it is located on the first floor of a house, though it has a separate entrance from the rest of the home. One overnight parking spot is included, so there is no need to worry about securing city parking, which is a major perk.
The apartment is available on most dates beginning in late August. The host also offers a 20% discount for stays of 14 days or more.
Rating: 4.94
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Narragansett: French-inspired home, $139
Book this Narragansett cottage starting at $139 per night
Feel transported from Rhode Island to France the minute you step into this chic home tucked in idyllic Narragansett. The host, who originally hails from France, infuses authentic charm and culture into every corner with French-style chandeliers, Venetian mirrors, and paintings completed by his mother.
This cottage is a good pick for a small group of friends or a family as it can comfortably fit five with a Queen-size bed, a Full-sized bed, plus a pull-out couch. It also comes with three parking spots.
The host doesn't provide kayaks, but guests can bring their own and take a boat ride down the nearby Narrow River, or spend the day lounging on Narragansett Beach. Afterward, gather 'round the outdoor fire pit or perch on the private deck and enjoy the evening breeze. Past guests praised the cottage's cozy feel and thoughtful decorations, and also emphasized the high standard of cleanliness.
This home is also optimal for guests who prefer to cook their meals rather than eat out during the pandemic, as the kitchen is fully equipped with all the essentials.
The cottage has limited availability until the end of September.
Rating: 4.93
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: The host does not participate in an official Airbnb cleaning policy, and no specific mention was made for COVID-19 cleaning procedures, but previous guests praised the level of cleanliness.
Chepachet: Lake house, $165
Book this Chepachet cottage starting at $165 per night
This charming wooden cottage is located right on the picturesque Ponaganset reservoir for full immersion into the great outdoors, despite being a short 30-minute drive from Providence.
Splash on the lake with three kayaks and a rowboat offered by the host, or spend the day swimming, fishing, or relaxing on the nearby beach. The host is verified as a super host and has received positive reviews for hospitality, going so far as to provide fresh bread, eggs, and wine upon arrival, in addition to badminton and croquette rackets available for guest use.
The cabin can house 4 guests, with 2 beds and 1 bathroom, with amenities that include a grill and fire pit. While there is a bath with a hand-held showerhead, there is no walk-in shower.
The cabin has limited availability until October.
Rating: 4.98
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific mention was made for COVID-19 cleaning procedures, but the space has received a 5/5 rating for cleanliness and the owner is an Airbnb Superhost.
Jamestown: Family-friendly townhouse, $174
Book this Jamestown townhouse starting at $174 per night
Palm tree rugs, nautical artwork, and seashell-lined decorations fill this generously-sized townhouse that is ideal for families with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. There is a Queen-sized bed in the main bedroom, as well as a Full-sized bed in the loft that kids are sure to enjoy. Pets are also welcome but must be approved by the host prior to arriving.
Expect an activity-packed trip thanks to host-provided equipment such as bikes, beach chairs, paddleboards, kayaks, and surfboards, best paired with time spent relaxing on the huge outdoor roof deck with views of Narragansett Bay.
Jamestown is located on quaint Conanicut Island, nestled in between Kingstown and Newport. The town, beach, waterfront, restaurants, and grocery store are all within a 5-minute walk of the Airbnb.
Past guests rave about the excellent hospitality and mention receiving free wine, beer, food, and toiletries.
Availability is scattered in September and October but opens up in November.
Rating: 4.87
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Cranston: Waterfront boathouse studio, $175
Book this Cranston boathouse starting at $175 per night
Overlooking the beautiful Providence River, the bright red patio of this boathouse studio is a standout spot for morning coffee or taking in impressive sunsets. With one King-sized bed, an in-unit washer and dryer, and a full kitchen, the listing is best-suited for couples.
Located on an estate down a private driveway, the boathouse affords a high level of privacy, while still being conveniently located within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and museums in Pawtuxet Village. The home is also a short 10-minute drive from Providence and major highways.
The Airbnb has the most availability beginning in late October.
Rating: 4.94
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.
Richmond: Equestrian farm stay, $200
Book this Richmond farm starting at $200 per night
Located above the barn of a working horse farm, guests have the opportunity to interact with horses and take riding lessons for a fee while staying in this modern apartment.
While the upstairs apartment area is private, the downstairs kitchen and dining area are open and shared by riders and stable renters. The host has not mentioned if theses services are currently closed due to COVID-19.
Miles of hiking trails surround this unique equestrian stay, which can accommodate up to 4 guests (and well-behaved pets) with one Queen-sized bed, one pull-out couch, and one air mattress. Past guests have commented that this is a great option for families, especially those with kids who enjoy interacting with animals.
The farm is available for scattered dates in fall, with greater openings beginning in November.
Rating: 4.97
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific mention was made for COVID-19 cleaning procedures, but the space has received a 5/5 rating for cleanliness and the owner is a Superhost.
South Kingston: Treehouse by the ocean, $233
Book this South Kingston treehouse starting at $233 per night
Fulfill your childhood dreams of living in a treehouse in this space originally built as a carriage house that has since been transformed to mimic a whimsical treehouse.
Decorated to promote an ultimate level of serenity, guests can spend their day reading a book, listening to records from the host's collection, or breathing in the crisp air on the outdoor deck.
There is a Full-sized bed and an additional couch, though, the true highlight is likely the fully outdoor shower, however, it is only available during warmer months.
Located in Kingston on the south coast of Rhode Island, guests can borrow provided bikes to head into nearby Wakefield, or bike straight to the beach. Past reviewers praised the location for its proximity to restaurants and shops.
Availability is limited until November.
Rating: 4.93
COVID-19 cleaning procedures: No specific mention was made for COVID-19 cleaning procedures, but the home has received a 4.9/5 rating for cleanliness, and the owner is a Superhost.