We had a great time at Linda's home. We had a fire practically every nite and had fun with the kayaks the host provided (first time using one). The proximity to everything was great. Newport was only a 40 minute drive from Charlestown, supermarkets about 10 minutes. The beaches, especially Blue Shutters was a 2 minute drive a 5 minute bike ride. Great waves! You could probably walk it in 20 minutes. The launch for the kayaks was literally across the street or you could try West Beach. There you can bring your dog. There are sand bars there where you can fish from if thats what you like to do.