What is the best time to visit Block Island?

The Best Time to Visit to Block Island Block 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.



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There's plenty to do in a day. That sounds like a fine amount of time to see the island for a first time. The ferry will take an hour. You can bike the loop from Old Harbor to the Southeast Light/Mohegan Bluffs and around to New Harbor (about 6 1/2 miles), Have lunch, do some shopping, walk on the beach, etc.

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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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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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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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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.

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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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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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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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It is recommended you leave yourself at least 45 min-1 hour prior to sailing time to arrive at the ferry terminal.

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Limited on site parking is available at $15.00 per calendar day at the New London ferry terminal, first come first served. Additional parking is available at the Water Street Parking Garage in New London, directly across the street from the ferry terminal.

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If your preferred travel time is not displayed, this means the tickets have sold out for that departure time, to both online and over-the-phone reservations. Day-of tickets may be available, on a standby basis, in the event of cancellations.

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