'''Block Island''' [http://www.blockislandchamber.com/index.html] is a small island off the coast of Rhode Island. The entirety of the island is officially considered to be the town of '''New Shoreham''', but 'Block Island' is much more widely used to describe the area. There are less than 1500 year-round residents, with a significantly larger summer population. Block Island is a wonderful place to visit for a relaxing getaway. Block Island is small and easy to get around, cars will not be essential regardless of where visitors stay. The island is so simple that there is no problem by traveling the island on foot or by bike and if necessary there are plenty of taxi services. The atmosphere and character of the island is soothing, delightful and comforting. The beaches and scenery are distinctive and incomparable. The island is filled with activities for all ages. If you are looking for a place to escape from your hectic lifestyle or a place to visit for a family vacation Block Island is your perfect destination.

Get in

  • '''Block Island Ferry''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-783-7996 or Phone: ''+1''866-783-7996,[http://www.blockislandferry.com/] Departs year round and daily from the village of Point Judith, in Narragansett. You have the choice of the passenger-only High Speed Ferry (runs only in the summer), which arrives at Block Island in 30 minutes or you could take the "traditional" car ferry which arrives at Block Island within an hour. The Ferry_fs schedule of departure is every few hours during the winter and fall or every hour during the summer. Prices are reasonable for each ferry, whether it be round trip or one way and children and senior citizens have a discount. Tickets can either be purchased at the box office (located at the ferry departure) or online where you can have them mailed to you or held at the box office.
  • In summer there is also seasonal, passenger-only ferry service between Newport, New London, Connecticut[https://www.longislandferry.com/bif/home.htm (view schedule)] , and Montauk, New York [http://vikingfleet.com/vikingnews/templates/ferries.aspx?articleid=57&zoneid=15 (view schedule)]. (These ferries do not take cars.)
  • '''These rates are for the ferry departing from Galilee to Block Island'''
  • '''High Speed Ferry'''
  • Adult One Way $16.00

    Child One Way $8.75

    Adult Same Day Round Trip $29.85

    Child Same Day Round Trip $13.50

  • '''Traditional'''
  • Adult One Way $10.60

    Child One Way $5.20

    Senior Citizen $10.10

    Adult Same Day Round Trip $17.40

    Child Same Day Round Trip $8.20

    Senior Citizen Same Day Round Trip $8.20

  • '''Different day Round Trip'''
  • Adult $21.05

    Child $10.40

    Senior Citizen $20.05

    By air

  • '''Resort Air''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-2000. Flies in private or commuter sized airplanes.
  • '''New England Airlines''', 56 Airport Rd, Westerly, Rhode Island, 1-800-243-2460. Flights between Westerly and Block Island.
  • Get around

    Most areas of Block Island are easily within walking distance of each other but there are plenty of other modes of transportation. If you prefer to travel by car you can flag down a taxi or rent one on the island. For a nominal charge, the visitor may bring a bicycle on ferries that serve the island. Bicycles and Mopeds are also available to rent and are so convenient that you may rent one as soon as you walk off the ferry. The "traditional" ferry from Point Judith, RI is the only ferry that takes cars. (For rates and schedule, see [http://www.blockislandferry.com Interstate Navigation])

    By Taxi

  • ''' A. Ernst Taxi''',''' '''Phone: ''+1'' 486-0600'''
  • ''' Alvin Ernst Taxi''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-7739'''
  • ''' Block Island Taxi''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-2562'''
  • ''' Clark's Cab''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-741-0038'''
  • ''' Kirby Taxi''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-2928.'''
  • ''' Ladybird Taxi''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-782-5796.'''
  • ''' Mary D's Nightingale''', Phone: ''+1'' 401- 466-9838.'''
  • ''' McGovern's Cab''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-792-1700.'''
  • ''' Minute Man Taxi''', Phone: ''+1'' 401- 466-3131.'''
  • ''' Monica's Cab''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-742-0000.'''
  • ''' Nat's Taxi''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-5291.'''
  • ''' Oscar Berlin''', Phone: ''+1'' 401- 741-0500.'''
  • ''' Sam's Van''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-741-4567.'''
  • ''' Southside Cab''', Phone: ''+1'' 401- 782-7105.'''
  • ''' Wolfie's Taxi Service''', Phone: ''+1'' 401- 466-5550.'''
  • Bicycle Moped and Car Rental Services

  • ''' Aldo's Mopeds and Bikes''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-5018
  • '''Beach Rose Bicycles''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-2034
  • '''Block Island Bike & Car Rental''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-2297
  • '''Boat Basin Bike & Car Rental''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-2631
  • '''Champlin_fs Bike Rentals''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-7777 [http://www.champlinsresort.com/amenities.htm]
  • '''Island Moped & Bike Rental''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-2700
  • '''Island Sport Shop''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-5001
  • '''Moped Man Bike Rentals, Water St.''' Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-544
  • '''Old Harbor Bike Shop''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-446-2029 [http://www.oldharborbikeshop.com]
  • '''Seacrest Inn Bicycle Rentals''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-2882
  • '''Surf Hotel Bike Rentals''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-2241
  • '''Block Island Ferry''', Phone: ''+1'' 401-783-7996 or Phone: ''+1'' 866-783-7996, [http://www.blockislandferry.com/] will bring your car on deck if you call ahead and make reservations. No reservations are required for bicycles.
  • See

    There are many different sights to see around the island during the summer. All you need is a gorgeous summer day and a pair of walking shoes in order to enjoy all of the sights that Block Island has to offer. Here is a list of some of the main attractions on the island:

  • '''North Light''', Corn Neck Road. Built in 1867, this is the fourth lighthouse built on Sandy Point, where exposure to the elements and shifting sands make keeping a lighthouse in one piece difficult. The lighthouse is on the grounds of the National Wildlife Sanctuary, which contains hiking trails.
  • '''Mohegan Bluffs''', 122 Mohegan Trail. On the southern end of the island, the bluffs rise 200 feet (61 m) above the water and run along the coast for about three miles (5 km). It's the site of the Southeast Lighthouse, built in 1875. This is one of the most visited places on the island due to the gorgeous views and breathtaking sites. Be warned though, to get down to the bluffs on the beach you have to climb down numerous flights of stairs which isn_ft the problem, the only problem is coming back up. Be prepared for a good workout.
  • '''South East Lighthouse''', Mohegan Trail Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-5009, Stop over and take a visit to one of the most magnificent and beautiful lighthouses in America. The view from the lighthouse looks out from the Mohegan Bluffs which are over 200 feet (61 m) above the water. The sight and atmosphere is so breathtaking it will definitely be worth your while. [http://lighthouse.cc/blockisoutheast]
  • '''Lewis-Dickens Farm''', Cooneymus Road. Coastal grasslands set on the bluffs above the Atlantic provide habitat for raptors and passerines.
  • '''Block Island Historical Society''', Old Town Road. The Block Island Historical Society houses permanent and special exhibits that chronicle Block Island's past.
  • '''Eisenhauer Gallery''', Water Street. A commercial gallery that features a collection of paintings, sculpture, glasswork and more.
  • Do

    Although Block Island mainly consists of 17 miles (27 km) of beachy shore there is still plenty to do:

  • '''Beaches''' If you are looking for a place to spend some quality time at the beach Block Island is ideal. The seashore is everywhere. The Island encompasses 17 miles (27 km) of beaches and offers many choices. Within walking distance of the ferry landing is three-mile Crescent Beach, which is divided into three parts: the Fredrick J. Benson Beach, Scotch Beach, and Mansion Beach which is positioned beneath cliffs and the stone walls of a vanished mansion. The beach has lifeguards and restrooms. Food is available from nearby Old Harbor restaurants and concessions. Parking and beach admission are free.
  • '''Block Island Parasail & Watersports''' Old Harbor Dock, Phone: ''+1'' 401- 864-2474, Provides an abundance of fun and diverse watersport activities such as banana boat rides, parasailing, jetboat rentals, sunset cruises and island tours. [http://www.blockislandparasail.com]
  • '''Boating''' Charter boats are available for deep-sea fishing or you can simply cast your line in the surf. The 365 fresh water ponds are home to bass, perch, and pickerel. You can snorkel, scuba dive, kayak, or parasail.
  • '''Block Island Fishing Charters, LLC''' New Harbor, Phone: ''+1'' 401- 787-2321 or 466-5944, Inshore and offshore trips for experienced anglers and newcomers alike. Target striped bass, blues, fluke & gamefish with licensed, professional captain. Nighttime trophy bass trips and island tours also offered. [http://www.blockislandfishcharters.com more info]
  • '''Children's activities''' include a story hour at the library, Nature Conservancy hikes, and a petting zoo.
  • '''Hiking on The Greenway'''. Hikers can enjoy twenty-five miles (40 km) of trails through grassy meadows, stone walls, inland moors and Mohegan Bluffs.
  • '''Rustic Rides Farm'''.West Side Road,Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-5060,Provides guided horseback rides on the beach, pony rides for children, and carriage rides for weddings and other special events.
  • Block Island Sport Fishing. ld Harbor. 01-487-2425. ww.blockislandfishingcharters.net. Fishing charters from Old Harbor, Block Island for striped bass tuna, and sharks on a safe and fast diesel powered Ridgeway express. Block Island's best charter boat!

    Buy

    Lucky for anyone with a love of shopping, Block Island is filled with quaint little gift shops:

  • '''Chapel Sweets''', Chapel Street at Weldons Way. Chapel Sweets is a candy store that specializes in fudge and taffy.
  • '''Book Nook''', Water Street. The Book Nook of Block Island is both a bookstore and a publisher.
  • '''Sheila's of Block Island''', Chapel St. Sheila's of Block Island carries a wide variety of gifts from Block Island ornaments to women's accessories.
  • '''Star Department Store''', Water Street. This old fashioned general store has everything any traveler could want. Clothing, candy, and jewelry; this store is a fun filled stop for many visitors to the island.
  • 234 Water Gallery and Gift. 34 Water Street. outh end of Water Street near the Statue of Rebecca in the Figurehead Building.. 401) 466-8600. ww.234Water.com. Gallery and Gift shop located in downtown Block Island on Water Street, minutes from the Block Island Ferry. 234 Water has a unique collection of handmade works by American Artists and eclectic Home Accessories and Gifts.

    Eat

    Mid-Range

  • '''Eli's''', 456 Chapel Street, ''+1'' 401-466-5230, [http://www.atlanticinn.com/elis.htm/]. May-Dec. 5:30PM-10PM. Features local seafood, pasta dishes, and grilled items. Old-fashioned look. $16-$28.
  • '''The Oar''', 221 Jobs Hill Rd., ''+1'' 401-466-8820. May through October, 8AM-1AM. Buffet breakfast and full-service lunch and dinner, including grilled swordfish, sirloin, fried chicken, nachos, lobster rolls, and calamari. $8.25-$25.
  • '''Ballard's''', 42 Water St., ''+1'' 401-466-2231, [http://www.ballardsinn.com/]. 11:30AM-11PM. Menu has something for everyone, including a kids menu. Several bars and frequent live bands. $8.25-$23.
  • '''The Beachhead''', Corn Neck Road., ''+1'' 401-466-2249, [http://www.thebeachead.com]. Contains a very diverse menu from cheeseburgers to seafood entrees.
  • '''Harbor Grill''', Water Street., ''+1'' 401-466-2828, [http://www.blockislandreservations.com]. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner overlooking Old Harbor. Affordable wine list, nightly salad bar, fresh seafood, convenient location.
  • '''Mexican on the Deck''', Corn Neck Road., Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-5855, [http://mysite.verizon.net/vzeedm14/mexican/id1.html]. Not a fan of seafood? No worries, Mexican on the Deck serves tacos, nachos, wings, burritos and much more!
  • '''Mohegan Cafe & Brewery''', Water Street., Phone: ''+1'' 401-4665-5911, [http://www.blockislandreservations.com/]. 11:30AM-9PM. House brewed beer in a family atmosphere. Menu includes wide range of burgers, vegetarian options, Tex-Mex and Asian options. Enjoy A/C in the heart of Old Harbor.
  • '''Sharkey's''', 596 Corn Neck Rd., Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-9900, Sharkey's is a very laid back and casual restaurant that serves mostly American food. This place is great if you are sick of seafood.
  • '''Harry's Cafe''', 30 Water St., ''+1'' 401-466-5400, Harry's serves American cuisine and offers take out.
  • Splurge

  • '''Atlantic Inn Restaurant''', High Street, ''+1'' 401-466-5883. Serves a four course candle-lit dinner. The Atlantic Inn is a favorite for many famous celebrities.
  • '''Hotel Manisses''', 1 Spring Street, ''+1'' 401-466-5844 466-2836, [http://www.blockislandresorts.com/dining/]. Contains an a la carte menu featuring fresh seafood, beef & poultry, their own fresh garden vegetables, succulent appetizers & mouth watering homemade desserts.
  • '''Spring House Hotel''', 52 Spring St., ''+1'' 401-466-5844. Serves contemporary cuisine and is well known to host many weddings.
  • '''Winfield's''', Corn Neck Road,''+1'' 401-466-5844, [http://mysite.verizon.net/restkino]. Contains a menu influenced by French, Italian, American and Asian cuisines.
  • Drink

  • '''Captain Nick_fs ''', 69 Ocean Ave, 401-466-5670. Pool, large dance floor, dollar beers and drink specials, live music Tu-Su.
  • '''Club Soda''', Connecticut Ave, below the Highview Inn. 401-466-5397. Where the locals hang out. Pub food year round, open mic night, karaoke, and unique island ambiance.
  • '''Albion Pub (next to Nick's)''', 3 Ocean Ave, 401-466-9990. Features Guinness and Bass on tap as well as over 40 other varieties of beer. Full liquor bar, large screen TV, jukebox and pool table, along with other bar games.
  • '''The Spring House''', 902 Spring St, 401-466-5844. Monday night is Martini Night! Dress up and drink cheap martinis. Insider tip: Order them on the rocks. Same price, more alcohol, less spillage/glass breaking.
  • '''McGovern's Yellow Kittens Tavern (or "Kittens")''', Corn Neck Rd, 401-466-5855. Tuesday night is reggae night! There's a cover, but they always reel in really good live reggae artists. Darts, pool, outside deck, dreadlocks.
  • '''The Oar''', West Side Road, 401-466-8820. Every night is dollar draft happy hour and awesome sunset hour! Check out the ceiling inside.
  • '''Trader Vic's (at Champlin's Resort and Marina)''', end of the dock, New Harbor, 401-466-2641. Go get a banana mudslide and mingle with the yacht owners. Make sure to go early before the milk sours, Now. Not your scene? Go get a banana mudslide, and head over to the back of the movie theatre where staff housing is located and play some beer pong. (After the mudslide.)
  • '''Ballards's Inn and Marina''', 42 Water Street, 401-466-2231. Cocktail Volleyball. Everyday on the beach. Costumed theme parties inside at night (TBA). Marina tourist boat-after-parties at dawn.
  • '''Dump Beach''', end of West Beach Road. The site of all after parties (1am - ?). Bonfire, beer, guitars.
  • Sleep

  • '''1661 Inn and Guest House''', Spring St., Phone: ''+1'' 401-466-2421 or Toll Free: ''+1'' 800-626-4773, Fax: ''+1'' 401-466-2858, [http://www.blockislandresorts.com]. 23 rooms. Known for their friendly hosts. 1661 ensures a relaxing and comfortable stay. $$$$
  • '''Atlantic Inn''', High St., ''+1'' 401-466-5883 or ''+1'' 800-224-7422, Fax: ''+1'' 401-466-5678, [http://www.atlanticinn.com/]. Is within walking distance from Old Harbor. The Atlantic Inn is a perfect place to lodge if you're desiring peace and quiet, scenic views and delectable food. 20 rooms, 1 suite. $$$
  • '''Ballards Resort''', 42 Water St., Summer: ''+1'' 401-466-2231, Winter: ''+1'' 401-334-1997, [http://www.ballardsinn.com].If you are yearning for excitement on Block Island Ballards is the place to stay. Ballards is located in the center of it all, just feet from the ocean, and a very short walk from the Island_fs shops, restaurants, pubs and ferry boats. Not only is it a great place for those looking to let loose but it is also a wonderful place to lodge for a family vacation. Ballards is very child friendly by comprising an arcade, a toy shop, and lifeguards on the beach. $$
  • '''Barrington Inn''', Beach Ave.,''+1'' 401-466-5510 or ''+1'' 888-279-9400, Fax: ''+1'' 401-466-5880, [http://www.thebarringtoninn.com]. The Barrington Inn is located on a hilltop overlooking the New Harbor area. The mood is quiet and welcoming. The Inn offers six guest rooms and two apartments with private baths, decks and ocean views. The Inn is in walking distance to the town, beach and ferry. The Barrington Inn is situated on the corner of Beach and Ocean Avenue. It is convenient to both Old Harbor and New Harbor, the airport, town, beach and ferry. 6 rooms, 2 apartments. $$$
  • '''The Bellevue House Inc''', ''+1''401-466-2912. The decor is charismatic, the location is idyllic, and the views are pleasant. The location is more private by being set on a hill a little out of town which is ideal if you are looking to stay away from commotion. However, it is located in easy walking distance to all attractions. Bed and Breakfast. $$$.
  • '''Blue Dory Inn''', 61 Dodge St., ''+1'' 401-466-2254 or ''+1'' 800-992-7290,[http://www.thebluedoryinn.com]. 12 rooms, 4 cottages, 3 suites. Beautiful Victorian style within a few feet of the sea. Also, has been newly renovated and has also been said to be Block Island's most romantic Bed and Breakfast! $$$.
  • '''The Island Home''', ''+1''401-466-5944 [http://www.theislandhome.com] 10-Room Victorian B&B with a relaxed atmosphere. Set on a hill, conveniently located between the center of town and New Harbor, with panoramic views of the harbor, ocean and surrounding countryside. The warm & comfortable setting, with inviting rooms, cozy nooks and sprawling lawns make the inn ideal for a quiet retreat or family getaway. A short walk to town, beaches and marinas. Private Baths $$$.
  • '''The National''', Water Street., ''+1'' 401-466-2901, [http://www.blockislandhotels.com] The National is a landmark of Block Island it is located in the heart of the historic district and is just minutes from the restaurants, beaches, shops and ferries. The rooms overlook the docks and enclose a very warming New England atmosphere. $$$.
  • '''New Shoreham House Inn''', Water Street., ''+1'' 401-466-5504, [http://www.blockislandreservations.com] The New Shoreham House Inn is a shared bath inn with competitive prices located directly across the street from the Old Harbor Ferry Landing. Easy walking to beaches, shops and restaurants. Deck overlooks town and Old Harbor. $$.
  • '''Old Bakery Guest House''', Water Street., ''+1'' 800-825-6254, [http:www.blockislandreservations.com] The Old Bakery is located on Water Street in the historic district of Old Harbor. This quaint seaside guest house has two suites. The ocean view two bedroom suite and the island view two bedroom suite. Both have access to a large ocean view deck. The Old Bakery is nicely furnished with original hardwood floors and is pet friendly. For your pet there will be an additional charge of $50 per night not to exceed $150 for your stay. 4 guests maximum per suite. $$$$
  • '''Old Town Inn''', 508 Old Town Rd, ''+1''401-466-5958, [http://www.oldtowninnbi.com] . Has a charm of a Bed and Breakfast with the feel of an Inn. Located out of town and just down the road from the airport, which is very convenient. $$$.
  • '''The Spring House Hotel''', 52 Spring St., ''+1'' 800-234-9263 or ''+1'' 466-5844, [http://www.springhousehotel.com]. The Spring House Hotel is the most elegantly recognized historic landmark on Block Island. It overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and Block Island foothills. All rooms have queen beds and full service telephones. A complimentary continental breakfast is served each morning. The Spring House Hotel is preferred by many famous celebrities. 50 rooms. $$$$
  • '''Harborside Inn''', Water Street., ''+1'' 800-825-6254 or ''+1'' 466-5504, [http://www.blockislandreservations.com]. This 36 room historic inn is located across the street from the ferry landing in Old Harbor. The Harborside Inn offers quaint seaside charm with the convenient location in the center of town. Wireless internet, luggage storage also available for guests. $$$
  • '''Highview Inn''', Connecticut Ave., ''+1'' 401-466-2605, Youth Hostel accommodations for reasonable rates, shared bathrooms, walking distance to town, ferry landing and beaches. $
  • '''Island Manor Resort''', 215 Chapel St., ''+1'' 401-466-5400. Great place to stay for a family vacation. It is in walking distance to Captain Nick_fs and all of the lovely shops.
  • '''Water Street Inn''', 213 Water Street., ''+1'' 401-466-2605 or ''+1'' 800-825-6254, [http://www.blockislandreservations.com]. The Water Street Inn offers 10 rooms all with private bathrooms, ceiling fans and small refrigerator. Some rooms offer views of the ocean while others include A/C. Recently renovated and located in the historic district. Walk to beaches, shops and restaurants. $$$
  • Many Block Island homes are offered as weekly rentals during the summer months.
  • '''Block Island Holidays''', ''+1'' 800-905-0590, [http://www.blockislandholidays.com/summer.htm]. Country homes, cottages, and condos available for summer rentals. Check out the website or call to learn more about summer rentals, group packages, and tours!
  • '''Block Island Reservations & Real Estate''', ''+1'' 800-825-6254, [http://www.blockislandreservations.com]. Featuring hotel rooms, cottages, suites and apartments. Nightly and weekly rentals available. Midweek spring & fall "Stay, Dine & Bike" package available for 2 guests starting at $299.
  • Get out

    There is a ferry service that leaves Block Island and goes to Point Judith every day of the week and throughout the year. There is also a ferry that travels to Newport and New London, CT every Monday through Sunday but only operates between the dates July 1st and September 6th. For more information see the get in section.

    Stay Safe

    According to a survey conducted in January of 2005 on health and safety Block Island was rated 20th overall out of 39 towns and cities in Rhode Island. It is ranked the 7th most dangerous town based on accidents and crime rates. This numbers are not necessarily accurate because they are based on the year round populations. Many of the crimes and accidents occurred during the summer months when the population rises due to vacationers and tourists.