Need an island escape with coastal charm and unspoiled beauty? Head to Block Island, Rhode Island! Located just off the southern coast of Rhode Island, Block Island boasts dramatic bluffs, sandy beaches, lighthouses, and laid-back island vibes. Whether you're biking scenic roads, sipping cocktails with ocean views, or walking along the cliffs, Block Island is perfect for a peaceful yet adventurous getaway.
Block Island, RI Highlights:
- For Couples: Watch the sunset at the Mohegan Bluffs – Climb down the wooden stairs to a secluded beach and enjoy spectacular ocean views.
- For Families: Swim and play at Crescent Beach – Calm waters, soft sand, and easy access make this beach ideal for kids.
- For Adventurous Travelers: Bike or moped around the island – Circle the island on two wheels and take in coastal views, rolling hills, and hidden coves.
- For Nature Lovers: Hike the Clay Head Trail – Enjoy coastal bluffs, birdwatching, and peaceful walking paths on this scenic loop.
- For History Buffs: Tour Southeast Light – Visit the historic red-brick lighthouse perched above Mohegan Bluffs for panoramic views and local history.
Best Time to Visit Block Island, RI
The best time to visit Block Island is in the late spring through early fall (May to October). Summer is the most popular time, offering warm beach weather and ferry service from multiple ports. For fewer crowds and lower prices, visit in early June or after Labor Day in September.
How to Get to Block Island, RI
- By Ferry: Year-round ferry from Point Judith, RI (traditional and high-speed options); seasonal high-speed ferries from Newport, RI, and New London, CT.
- By Plane: New England Airlines offers small-plane flights from Westerly, RI (about 15 minutes in the air).
- By Private Boat: Dock at Old Harbor or New Harbor if arriving by your own vessel.
Where to Stay on Block Island, RI
- Spring House Hotel – Historic Victorian-style inn with ocean views, wraparound porch, and upscale dining.
- The 1661 Inn – Charming accommodations with a mix of rooms and cottages, plus a legendary breakfast spread.
- National Hotel – Iconic harborfront hotel with classic charm, central location, and easy beach access.
Best Things to Do on Block Island, RI
1. Sunbathe, Swim, and Chill at Ballard’s Beach
Ballard's Beach is one of Block Island's premiere civic entertainment centers and outdoor activity destinations, offering a beach party atmosphere complete with top visitor amenities.
The beach is open to the public and accessible via the upscale Ballard's Beach restaurant, which offers New England-style fare in an oceanfront dining environment.
Queen, king, and deluxe guest rooms are offered at Ballard's Hotel, offering beach, ocean, and boardwalk views from every room.
Beach visitors can relax in rentable lounge chairs or cabanas and enjoy craft cocktails, wine, and beer from the resort's outdoor tiki bars.
During the summer months, live music performances are presented daily, with beach volleyball equipment available to all beach patrons.
42 Water St, New Shoreham, RI 02807, Phone: 401-466-2231
2. If You’re Curious About Island History, Visit the Block Island Historical Society Museum
Block Island Historical Society Museum is a historical museum that is operated out of the island's former two-story Woonsocket House, originally constructed in 1871.
The museum is an extension of the Block Island Historical Society, which has been in operation since 1942.
It has operated the museum since 1945, which features two floors of permanent and temporary rotating exhibits today, with a focus on the region's social and cultural history from indigenous times to the present day.
Displays include collections of period furniture and textiles, boat models, oral history tapes, and artifacts and artwork related to local indigenous groups.
The museum is open seven days a week during the summer months, with special appointment tours available during the off-season.
18 Old Town Rd, New Shoreham, RI 02807, Phone: 401-466-2481
3. Spot Rare Wildlife at Block Island National Wildlife Refuge
Block Island National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for wildlife and birders. Here it is at a glance:
- Established in 1973 to protect Block Island's natural habitats and ecosystems, with a focus on migratory songbird habitats.
- Encompasses over 134 acres and is supervised by the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
- Recognized as one of the most important migratory bird habitats on the East Coast, attracting birders in summer and fall.
- Offers hunting and fishing opportunities for visitors with valid Rhode Island permits.
- Provides interpretive environmental education programs led by park staff and volunteers.
Location: New Shoreham, RI 02807
Phone: 401-364-9124
4. Hike Scenic Cliffs and Shores on the Clayhead Nature Trail
Clayhead Nature Trail is located within the 190-acre Clay Head Preserve, which is one of seven properties on the island that is overseen by the Nature Conservancy.
The preserve serves as one of the American East Coast's most beautiful undisturbed habitats, home to large populations of migratory songbirds throughout the summer and autumn months.
The trail is accessible from Corn Neck Road approximately three miles from Block Island's city center.
Approximately a third of a mile from the trailhead, the trail connects with picturesque clay shoreline bluffs and reaches "the maze," a series of interconnected trails that allow for prime birdwatching.
Corn Neck Road, Block Island, RI 02807, Phone: 401-331-7110
5. Reel In Big Catches with Fish The World Charters
Fish The World Charters is a company owned by longtime Block Island residents Chris and Maegan Hobe, owners of the island's iconic Salty Dog retail store.
The company offers a variety of fishing boat excursions, including tours of the island's offshore wind farm, the first of its kind in the United States.
The renewable energy project was originally developed by Deepwater Wind and produces up to 125,000 megawatts of energy annually, enough to power 17,000 homes in the region. All tours are conducted by Hobe, a fully-licensed Coast Guard 100-Ton Master, aboard of a 26-foot Sailfish center console boat powered by twin Yamaha 150 engines.
226 Water Street, Box 180, New Shoreham, RI 02807, Phone: 401-466-5254
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
6. Learn to Cast Like a Pro at The Fishing Academy
The Fishing Academy is a day-instruction fishing program for Block Island youth and young tourists, founded by Skidmore College graduate Ian Pollock and Block Island native Greg Swienton.
The pair bring their experience in early childhood education and youth sports coaching to their newest venture, teaching students ages 6-15 the basics of fishing skills in a safe, friendly environment.
Techniques taught during the course include proper casting, rigging, knot tying, angling, and fish handling skills. Three weekly sessions are offered throughout the summer months, with rates for Block Island residents and off-resident tourists.
All sessions are limited to 15 students per class to ensure maximum instructor attention and workshop fun. Phone: 802-688-3654
7. Relax on the Sand at Fred Benson Town Beach
Fred Benson Town Beach is an acclaimed visitor beach on Block Island that has been named as America's "Best Beach for Families" by Coast Living.
The beautiful white sand beach is located less than a mile from Block Island's city center and is easy to spot due to its large covered beach pavilion. It is a favorite for visitors with small children in tow due to its low surf and lifeguards staffed on duty during the summer months.
Visitor facilities offered at the pavilion include showers, restrooms, and a full changing room with lockers for family use.
A concession stand offers ice cream and beach snacks, while a rental shop lets visitors rent chairs, cabanas, umbrellas, and boogie boards for day use. Ample visitor parking is offered, with easy car-to-beach access.
7 Corn Neck Rd, Block Island, RI 02807
8. Soar Above Stunning Views with HeliBlock
HeliBlock is a Westerly, Rhode Island company that offers scenic helicopter tours around Block Island for visitors, led by a team of experienced pilots aboard top aircraft.
Three types of tours are offered, including standard Block Island helicopter tours, which make a complete scenic lap around the island to show off its beautiful natural areas and crystal-clear surrounding waters.
An offshore wind experience tour is also offered, giving visitors a close-up look at the island's offshore wind generation facility, the first of its kind in the United States.
North Light tours also provide high- and low-level views of spectacular nearby sights such as Montauk, Newport, and Martha's Vineyard.
1 Center Rd, New Shoreham, RI 02807, Phone: 401-859-1001
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
9. If You’re Ready for a Jaw-Dropping View, Hike the Mohegan Bluffs
The Mohegan Bluffs are one of Block Island's most acclaimed natural wonders, named for the 1590 indigenous battle between the Mohegan and Niantic tribes. The 200-foot bluffs are the location of the Block Island Southeast Lighthouse, which has been moved several times due to bluff erosion. In addition to serving as a dramatic Atlantic Ocean overlook site, the bluffs provide access to a secluded beach area at Corn Cove that is accessible via a set of more than 140 public stairs. On clear days, views atop the bluffs extend all the way to Montauk and Long Island. Visitor access is permitted between dusk and dawn, with sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and dog-walking serving as popular visitor activities.
Mohegan Trail, Block Island, RI 02807
10. Start Your Morning Sweetly at Aldo’s Bakery
Aldo's Bakery is a family-operated bakery opened by Italian immigrants Aldo and Maria Leone in 1970. The Leones brought experience working with the famed Spring House Hotel and Narragansett Inn to their establishment, which is operated by their sons Bobby and Aldo Jr. today. Since 1983, the shop has served its renowned homemade Italian-style gelato, which is available by the cup or by the cone in 24 flavors today. 32 flavors of homemade ice cream are also served, along with six styles of soft serve and frozen yogurt. In addition, a wide variety of pastries and bakery items are sold, including doughnuts, muffins, croissants, danishes, and scones. A full breakfast menu is available daily, highlighting favorites such as flavored waffles, pancakes, and griddle items, and a full beverage menu serves coffee shop drinks, including smoothies and frozen coffee beverages.
130 Weldon's Way, New Shoreham, RI 02807, Phone: 401-466-2198
Where to Eat on Block Island, RI
- Dead Eye Dick’s – Harborfront seafood with fresh local fare, raw bar, and sunset views in New Harbor.
- The Oar – Lively spot known for casual eats, sushi, and famous mudslides on the deck.
- Winfield’s – Intimate fine-dining experience offering upscale seafood and creative dishes.
If you are interested in local events:
- Block Island Music Festival (June) – Weeklong event featuring free live music and up-and-coming bands.
- Block Island Race Week (June) – Sailing competition drawing boaters and spectators from all over.
- Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks – Patriotic fun with a festive island twist.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Block Island:
- Newport, Rhode Island (via seasonal ferry) – Explore Gilded Age mansions, cliff walks, and sailing culture.
- Point Judith/Narragansett – Enjoy dining, surfing, and scenic beaches before or after your ferry ride.
- Westerly, RI & Watch Hill – Tour coastal villages, shop boutiques, and visit the historic carousel (via short flight or mainland travel).
- New London, CT – Boardwalks, history, and ferry access make for a fun coastal connection.
- Montauk, NY (seasonal ferry) – Venture into the Hamptons with beaches, lighthouses, and seaside dining.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Block Island located?
- Block Island is a 9.7-square-mile island located off the coast of mainland Rhode Island, approximately 14 miles from Long Island's Montauk Point.
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What activities can visitors enjoy on Block Island?
- Cycling, hiking, fishing, sailing, and relaxing on the beach are popular weekend getaway activities on the island.
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Which famous figures have visited Block Island?
- Block Island served as a retreat for celebrities such as Amelia Earhart, Charles Lindbergh, and Presidents Eisenhower, Roosevelt, and Clinton.
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