Vacation Guide to Block Island
Block Island is a small island located off the coast of Rhode Island in the United States. With a land area of approximately 10 square miles, Block Island is a popular New England vacation destination known for its natural beauty, picturesque landscapes, and laid-back atmosphere.
The island’s natural beauty extends inland with rolling hills, meandering trails, and preserved nature reserves, such as the Clay Head Preserve and Rodman’s Hollow. These areas offer opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and immersing in the island’s serene surroundings. The island attracts visitors with its stunning beaches, rolling green hills, charming New England architecture, and warm and welcoming community.
One of the highlights of Block Island is its pristine beaches. The island is surrounded by over 17 miles of rocky and sandy shorelines, offering a variety of beach experiences for every visitor.
From the popular Crescent Beach with its calm waters and soft sand to the more secluded and rugged Mohegan Bluffs Beach, a beach suits every preference. Families can relax under the sun, swim, build sandcastles, hunt for sea glass, or explore the tide pools teeming with marine life.
Family-friendly Things to Do on Block Island
- Visit the iconic Mohegan Bluffs on a sunny summer afternoon, which tower over 150 feet above the ocean, provide panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, and are a popular spot for sightseeing, picnicking, and photography.
- Rent a bike in Old Harbor and take a scenic ride along the island’s rugged shoreline.
- Grab a bite to eat at one of Block Island’s many downtown restaurants, and stop for ice cream after dinner from Old Harborview Takeout.
- Book a fishing charter for a fun day on the ocean, where stripers and bluefish are abundant.
- See the camels, kangaroos, and stroll through the exotic gardens of 1661.
- Take in the views from one of the Island’s lighthouses. The Southeast Lighthouse, perched on the Mohegan Bluffs, is a must-visit attraction. It offers guided tours and showcases maritime history exhibits. The North Light, another notable lighthouse, stands proudly on the island’s northern end and offers stunning coastline views.
- Get lost for an afternoon of hiking in Rodman’s Hollow, a 230-acre nature preserve in the basin of Block Island. This hike is a beautiful mix of thickets, knolls, and panoramic ocean views.
Take Home a Hidden Block Island Treasure
One of the most unique and exciting experiences for summertime visitors to Block Island is the hunt for one of the nearly 500 glass orbs, called floats, hidden around the island by a local glass blower each summer. About the size of an orange, each float is stamped with a date, a number, and a picture of the island.
Floats are usually hidden in early June and can be found all over the island, in rock walls, beaches, and trees. Normally clear, a certain number of floats will be colored. Usually, those with an ID corresponding to the current year, in 2023, floats with the number 23 will be colored.
If you’re lucky enough to find a float, you can register it through the Glass Float Project with your family’s name and where it was found. This time-honored tradition will keep everyone on their toes and the lookout throughout your trip.
Where to Stay on Block Island
Accommodations on Block Island range from quaint beds and breakfasts to sprawling family-friendly resorts. Whether you prefer a cozy inn or a seaside cottage, there are options to suit different budgets and preferences. Many accommodations offer stunning views and convenient access to the island’s attractions.
If your family prefers more private accommodation, Block Island offers many single-family whole-house rentals at various price points during the summer months. When we visit, our family prefers to say along the coast’s High Street / Spring Street stretch; while not downtown, it’s a short walk if you don’t have a car.
For a splurge, consider a stay at the Ross House. While the contemporary architecture can feel a bit out of place on the island, the home is very secluded and private and offers the best indoor/outdoor space mix.
If you’re looking for something more catered, the island is also home to many little B&Bs that will keep you close to town and in the hustle and bustle. We love The Seacrest for its fun vibe and prime location.
Family-friendly travel options to get to Block Island
Visitors can take a ferry from Point Judith, Rhode Island, or Newport, RI, to reach Block Island during the peak season. The ferry ride is a fun and scenic experience for kids of all ages; with beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean from the open-air top seats, it’s the perfect time to grab a seat and enjoy a snack while watching the coastline go by.
We prefer to depart from Point Judith when we travel. It’s easy to navigate and has ample parking options for short-term trips. I will note that the ferries fill up quickly for car transports, so if you plan to drive on the island, you’ll want to make your reservations many months before your trip.
Block Island, RI, is a unique and captivating destination for families seeking natural beauty, a relaxed atmosphere, and outdoor adventures. It is truly a place where visitors can create cherished memories and immerse themselves in the enchanting allure of this New England gem.
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