A tidal stream passes over scallop shells at Goosewing Preserve.

MY favorite places, like my favorite people, tend to be complicated. Perhaps even difficult. I like strong character, with an I-dare-you-to-like-me attitude, cut with the zest of simple charm. I know, I know. You can waste a lot of time with these types, going nowhere fast. But I’ve come to appreciate the value in going nowhere. Which is why my favorite place in the world happens to be just down the street from me — the public beach in Little Compton, R.I.

Some great quotes in this article.