Summer in southern Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s Point Judith Lighthouse is worth a visit, even if just to park the car and look out at the ocean. ( Denis Tangney Jr. / Getty Images )

Chicago Tribune

May 5, 2017 1:34 PM PT

With its beaches, seafood and relaxing pace, the southern tip of Rhode Island’s mainland makes for an ideal family summer vacation.

[Roger W. Wheeler State Beach near Galilee is a popular spot to sunbathe and play in the water. ( Francis Hobbins / Getty Images )

The writer’s children, Sally, 10, and Patrick, 12, at Scarborough State Beach during a family vacation in 2012. ( John Carpenter / Chicago Tribune)