The Ocean State The smallest state in the US, Rhode Island can still boast 400 miles of shoreline, with splendid beaches and harbours. It’s most famous port is Newport, home of the America's Cup races and the sumptuous Newport Mansions. The state's dominant feature is Narragansett Bay, providing some of the best fishing and sailing waters in the world. Whale watching, hiking, cycling, tennis and golf are also popular. Four hundred years of history have been beautifully preserved in the hundreds of colonial and Victorian era houses and buildings. Rhode Island offers events throughout the year, including jazz, classical and other cultural festivals, sailing regattas and boat shows, golf and tennis tournaments.