2nd Beach, also known as Sachuest Beach, is a sand-bottomed beachbreak in Middletown, just a short skip from Newport, Rhode Island. It throws bigger, better-shaped peaks than nearby First Beach, with both lefts and rights on offer, and it sits inside a National Wildlife Refuge. It isn't the standout break in the area, but it's a reliable, approachable option that beginners can enjoy.
When It Works
The beach draws swell from southwest through southeast (SW-SE), with a southwest (SW) swell the best match. It's usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3 m / 10 ft, and it handles a bit more size at higher tides. Autumn and winter are the seasons to watch, and while it's only moderately consistent, it produces fun, workable peaks when the setup lines up.
Wind and Tide
Look for a north (N) offshore wind to clean things up. The beach works across low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call. Higher tides also let it hold a touch more size.
Local Tips
This is a friendly, beginner-suited wave that takes just about any board, from shortboards and fish to funboards, longboards, and bodyboards. Expect a moderately busy lineup when it's on, with a somewhat reserved atmosphere in the water. Crowds run heavier through summer and fall and thin out in winter. The cliffs on the west side of the beach offer some shelter from prevailing southwest winds.
Access
You'll find a car park with free parking, though summer typically means paying to park. Facilities include restrooms, showers, and a lifeguard, and access is straightforward within the wildlife refuge.
