Portsmouth is a town in Newport County, Rhode Island, United States. It is located on Aquidneck Island and is part of the Providence metropolitan area. The town of Portsmouth was founded in 1638 by William Coddington and other settlers from Portsmouth, England. The town has a population of 17,389 as of the 2010 census. Portsmouth is home to many historic sites and several parks. The town offers a variety of recreational activities, such as fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. Many of the town’s beaches are located along Narragansett Bay, which is a popular spot for swimming and other water sports. Portsmouth is also home to many businesses, restaurants, and shops.