You're right about the south-facing shores being protected, but I understand there's been a big offshore storm creating the wave action we're seeing, not the wind.
I like to steer clear of Pt Judith in a big swell; too shallow and too scary in a boat. That's just me though; I'm sure plenty of others don't mind.
Though not as south-facing as Pt Judith, the Narragansett web cam can give you a good idea about swells down here:
http://cam.warmwinds.com/cam_java.htm
There used to be another one on the web site of a south county beach restaurant, but I don't remember which one.