DEM announces 2009 beach openings

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Get the bathing suits ready. The Department of Environmental Management announced Friday that South County beaches are opening next weekend.

Beginning May 16, Scarborough North , Roger Wheeler , and Misquamicut state beaches will be open Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., weather permitting.

The early hours are to accommodate early beach-goers and advance season pass sales.

Lincoln Woods beach will open on a daily basis beginning May 16. The beach at Burlingame picnic area and campground in Charlestown will open daily beginning May 23.

All beaches will be open on a daily basis starting Memorial Day until Labor Day.

The DEM said parking fees are based strictly on a car's registration. Vehicles registered in Rhode Island will be charged $6 on weekdays and $7 on weekends and holidays. Out-of-state vehicles will be charged $12 on weekdays and $14 on weekends and holidays.

A season pass for Rhode Islanders is $30 and for non-residents it's $60.