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Is Block Island like Nantucket?

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.



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This happy humble island also calls itself the “Bermuda of the North.” Block Island is cool, casual, fun, relaxed, and beautiful to explore for a few days.

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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.

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There is more to Block Island than gorgeous beaches. With more than 50 stores and specialty shops, and numerous art galleries, Block Island offers a diverse shopping experience. The Island's plentiful shops offer casual souvenirs as well as unique gifts from around the world and antiques.

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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.

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Getting Around Block Island As mentioned, it's not necessary to bring a vehicle. The island is highly walkable and bikeable, and you can either bring your own bicycle or rent one on the island. Mopeds are also available for rent on the island and a fun way to zip around to its beaches, cliffs, and lighthouses.

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Is Block Island Worth A Day Trip? Block Island is most definitely worth a day trip. With ferry crossings only taking 30-60 minutes, it's an enjoyable day trip to take from the Newport/Narragansett area. And with the island being relatively small, it's very easy to see most of it in just one day.

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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.

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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.

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Mind you – nothing is fancy on Block – it's a casual relaxed resort vibe across the isle with a very short season – May to Columbus Day.

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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).

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Most taxi rides will be about $15. There is no Uber or Lyft on the Island.

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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.

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Block Island was named after Adrian Block, the Dutch navigator who re-discovered the Island in 1614. Sixteen families from the English colony of Massachusetts settled on Block Island in 1661 and in 1664, the Island became part of the English colony of Rhode Island.

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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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Block Island State Airport (IATA: BID, ICAO: KBID, FAA LID: BID) is a public use airport located on Block Island, in Washington County, Rhode Island, United States.

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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.

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