Welcome to Quonnie! (Quonochontaug). You’re just steps to the beach via a charming path edged with beach roses and dune grass. The beach is so close it’s no big deal for kids to run back to the house for that forgotten sand pail or boogie board. Sign up for free tennis court time, just up the block. Kids can swing or climb at the playground right next to the courts or play on the adjacent ball field where weekend morning pick-up games are a longstanding tradition. After mornings at the beach, there is much to do nearby. About 15 minutes away is the charming old town of Watch Hill with its 'Flying Horse Carousel,' the oldest merry-go-round in America (still working). Grab a gourmet ice cream cone and watch the yachts come in and out of this scenic harbor. Excellent shopping at one-of-a-kind boutiques. Or try Stonington, a pristine New England village with perfectly preserved historic houses, well-stocked antique shops, and a Saturday morning farmer’s market, plus great restaurants, including the Water Street Café. 10 minutes beyond Stonington is Historic Mystic with its Seaport Museum and Aquarium, a favorite destination. Stroll the shops, watch the drawbridge go up for river traffic, and grab a slice at Mystic Pizza. Newport, with its baronial mansions is about 45 minutes away. Jamestown, ditto. Golf courses abound, many with ocean views, and a driving range is just a few minutes up Route 1; plus mini golf — always a hoot. Have cocktails in the evening on the upper deck with its view of the ocean and Block Island — just a ferry ride away for a great day trip. Take bikes and a picnic and make a day of it. After dinner, take a stroll around this friendly, private beach community where kids can ride bikes to their heart’s content. Enjoy the excellent stargazing, then fall asleep to the soothing sound of the ocean surf. Keywords: Beach House