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7/22/2026
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Lawmakers join governor, DEM officials in announcement of Bay Day on July 26
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 STATE HOUSE — Rep. Joseph J. Solomon Jr. and Sen. Matthew L. LaMountain joined officials from the Department of Environmental Management today as Gov. Dan McKee today signed an executive order at Rocky Point State Park designating Sunday, July 26, as Rhode Island’s 37th annual Governor’s Bay Day. The event includes free parking at all eight Rhode Island state surf beaches on Bay Day Sunday and license-free recreational saltwater fishing from July 24 to 26.
The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) will waive the round-trip fare on the South County Express Beach Bus on Sunday, July 26. The South County Express Beach Bus provides weekend-only express service from Central Falls, Cranston, North Providence, Pawtucket, Providence and Woonsocket to Salty Brine, Roger Wheeler, and Scarborough State Beaches. Service to the beach will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Bay Day has been a uniquely Rhode Island institution for 37 years,” said Representative Solomon (D-Dist. 22, Warwick). “Not only does it give Rhode Islanders the opportunity to enjoy our beaches and coastal fishing free of charge, but it also draws attention to our state’s most valuable natural resource. Our bay, for all its beauty, beaches and abundant fisheries, is a fragile ecosystem whose stewardship is one of our most important responsibilities.”
“Governor’s Bay Day is an opportunity to celebrate everything Rhode Island has to offer,” said Senator LaMountain (D-Dist. 31, Warwick, Cranston). “We embrace our identity as the Ocean State, and we encourage everyone to get out and experience the outdoors. Whether swimming, fishing, camping, hiking, biking, or simply enjoying a barbecue with friends and loved ones, so many of us have cherished memories of summer days spent at our amazing parks and beaches. Governor’s Bay Day helps ensure that all Rhode Islanders can continue to enjoy those experiences.”
Parking will be free at all state surf beaches on Bay Day Sunday:
· Charlestown Breachway and East Beach – Charlestown
· East Matunuck – South Kingstown
· Misquamicut State Beach – Westerly
· Roger Wheeler, Salty Brine, Scarborough North and Scarborough South – Narragansett
Governor’s Bay Day promotes active lifestyles and outdoor fun in Rhode Island’s public spaces while highlighting the economic impact of the state’s natural resources. With beaches, parks, trails, and fishing drawing more than 9 million visitors a year, these assets contribute an estimated $315 million to the economy, support nearly 4,000 jobs, and generate nearly $40 million in tax revenue.
Saltwater fishing is a key part of the state’s economy, with 175,000 recreational anglers contributing more than $130 million annually. Bay Day’s free recreational saltwater fishing weekend provides an opportunity for everyone to fish without a license, but size and possession limits still apply. Outside of this special weekend, saltwater licenses provide vital support for Rhode Island’s recreational fishing interests such as enhancing shoreline access and fish and wildlife conservation.
For more information, contact:
Daniel Trafford, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-1922
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