Block Island has a vast array of specialty shops to satisfy even the most seasoned shopper. You will find everything from magnets to pottery and everything in between.
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Incorporated in 1672 as the only town on the island of Block Island, New Shoreham is the smallest town in the smallest state in the United States.
Think food and drinks overlooking the ocean, boutique-lined streets, spectacular natural sights and some of the most unspoiled white sand beaches in the country. Hop on a bike or moped and get exploring charming streets, dramatic cliffs, quiet beaches and pristine nature trails.
Being a coastal destination, seafood is the most popular type of food you'll find on the island. Can you walk everywhere on Block Island? The main tourist area is highly walkable, but there are parts of the island you cannot get to unless you rent a bike or moped.
From July 4th to Labor Day, especially on weekends, Block Island is extremely crowded. If you plan to visit in the height of summer, do so during the week in order to enjoy all the island has to offer without fighting the crowds that daytrip by ferry on weekends.
Based in Point Judith, (Narragansett), Rhode Island, the Block Island Ferry offers Traditional ferry service, (55 minute voyage) as well as the fastest ferry trip from the mainland on the High speed ferry service, (30 minute cruise).
The summer retreat's reputation for partying, not its natural beauty, came to the fore in August after fights broke out at a free music festival at Ballard's Beach Resort and, later that same night, on the Block Island Ferry.
The Sullivan House is a much-admired architectural gem. It was built in 1904 for Col. LU Maltby, the owner of the Continental Hotel in Philadelphia. During WWI, a naval base was established on Block Island to hunt German U-boats and protect the coast.
There are no fees to enter any beach. All beach parking is free. Block Island and its beaches are extremely dog friendly, so long as they are on a leash.
The Best Time to Visit to Block IslandBlock Island is a summer destination. The peak season runs from Mid-June to Labor Day, but it would also be nice to visit either end of the season – in May or September. Block Island winters are rough, many businesses close and there are significantly less ferry options.
The Nature Conservancy calls it “One of the 12 Last Great Places in the Western Hemisphere.” With gorgeous beaches, sand dunes, bluffs, salt ponds and more, over 40 species of wildlife classified as rare or endangered can be found here. 28 miles of Greenway trails.
Dorry's Cove is a black-sand beach. It is small and generally uncrowded, with nice sunset views of Long Island. The waters are usually calm and access is easy, making this an excellent beach for swimming and snorkeling, and for picnics! Hike northward and you will approach a second cove, Grace's Cove.
Dorry's Cove is a black-sand beach. It is small and generally uncrowded, with nice sunset views of Long Island. The waters are usually calm and access is easy, making this an excellent beach for swimming and snorkeling, and for picnics! Hike northward and you will approach a second cove, Grace's Cove.
Additionally, you may want to bring a bathing suit, a change of clothes, lots of sunscreens, a camera, some cash or credit card, and your bikes if you are choosing to bike the island rather then rent mopeds. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing as it will be a long day filled with lots of activities.
Block Island is very casual, much more so than Nantucket. It does not have the same refined architecture and cobblestone streets as Nantucket but Block Island has a lovely Victorian front street facing the Old Harbor and the ocean. Block Island is smaller, with only one town and two harbors, Old Harbor and New Harbor.
Unfortunately, there are no public campgrounds or designated tent camping areas on Block Island. Camping is not allowed on the beaches or in public parks. If you're looking for beach camping options, you might consider nearby Watch Hill in Rhode Island or Shelter Island in New York.