Discover the diverse bird species of Rhode Island’s coast with guided trips from Weekapaug Inn. Ride in open-air electric cars, vans, or boats while an expert naturalist shares insider knowledge to boost your birding experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as most transport is vehicle-based with minimal walking.
Wildlife
History
Westerly’s coastline has long been a stopover for migratory birds, valued by early naturalists since the 19th century.
Conservation
Weekapaug Inn supports local habitat preservation efforts to protect coastal bird populations from development pressures.
Weekapaug Inn
Discover the diverse bird species of Rhode Island’s coast with guided trips from Weekapaug Inn. Ride in open-air electric cars, vans, or boats while an expert naturalist shares insider knowledge to boost your birding experience.
Weekapaug Inn is a waterfront inn and experience provider in Westerly, Rhode Island, offering a curated program of pondside and coastal activities for hotel guests and day visitors. Located on Quonnie Pond with views of salt marshes and Quonnie Cove, Weekapaug Inn stages wellness sessions, creative workshops, nature outings, and boat cruises that highlight the local landscape.
Seasonal yoga classes blend dynamic and therapeutic sequences with panoramic pond views; guided breathing and meditation sessions focus on mindfulness in an open-air setting. Creative offerings include pottery painting workshops with artist-led instruction and nature craft sessions that use beach stones, driftwood, and other coastal materials.
Evening programming ranges from s’mores around a fire pit to sound baths and full moon rituals featuring crystal bowls, gongs, and tuning forks. Birding excursions are led by a knowledgeable naturalist and use optics to explore local hotspots by electric car, van, or boat. The Quonnie Queen 45-minute pond cruise departs from the backyard dock aboard an Elco electric boat, passing waterfront homes and salt marshes. Complimentary ice cream at the Boathouse offers a relaxed, scenic treat for guests.
Weekapaug Inn emphasizes curated, small-group experiences and ticketed events for intimacy and safety. Many activities offer panoramic pond views and outdoor settings. Scheduling varies seasonally; specific offerings, instructors, and ticket availability are listed by date. Weekapaug Inn is positioned as a destination for relaxation, creative expression, and guided exploration of coastal Rhode Island waters and shoreline. Reservations and ticket details are available through the inn’s events calendar, with clear pickup or shipping options for pottery and curated timing for outdoor activities.
Location
Westerly, RI
Pondside and coastal setting
Experiences
10 experiences
Wellness, crafts, nature, and cruises
Pond Cruises
45-minute cruise
Elco electric boat from backyard dock
Guided Tours
Naturalist-led birding
Small-group outings with optics
Check dates, book workshops, and reserve Quonnie Queen cruises for a memorable pondside visit.
Bring Layers for Coastal Weather
Morning and evening temperatures near the water can be cool, so wear adjustable layers for comfort.
Use Provided Optics
The Inn supplies scopes and binoculars, but bringing your own familiar optics can enhance long-distance views.
Stay Quiet and Patient
Birds are easily startled; maintaining silence increases your chances of close encounters.
Pack Water and Snacks
Tours last around 1.5 hours, so hydration and light snacks help keep you energized and comfortable.
Binoculars
Helps spot and identify birds at a distance, even though optics are provided.
Weather-Resistant Jacket
Protects against sudden coastal rain and wind chill.
spring|fall|winter
Hat and Sunglasses
Shields you from sun exposure during open vehicle rides.
summer
Insect Repellent
Keeps bugs at bay especially near salt marshes and wetlands.
spring|summer