Just a short ferry ride from mainland Rhode Island, Block Island is a serene coastal retreat where dramatic cliffs meet sandy beaches and quaint villages. With its rich maritime history, outdoor adventures, and charming local eateries, this Block Island travel guide will help you craft the perfect seaside escape for every season.
🏞 Discover the Charm of Old Harbor
Begin your Block Island travel guide in Old Harbor, the island’s welcoming gateway. Here, Victorian-style hotels and shops line the waterfront, offering a glimpse into the island’s 19th-century past. Stroll along Water Street to browse boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafés filled with the aroma of fresh coffee and baked goods.
Visit the Block Island Historical Society Museum, where exhibits reveal stories of early settlers, shipwrecks, and the island’s evolution from a fishing hub to a treasured summer destination. The museum also offers walking maps to guide visitors through the town’s most historic landmarks, enriching your cultural exploration.
🌊 Scenic Wonders: Mohegan Bluffs & Southeast Lighthouse
No visit is complete without experiencing the breathtaking Mohegan Bluffs, where towering clay cliffs rise 150 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. Take the wooden staircase down to the secluded beach below for an up-close view of the crashing waves and rugged coastline.
Nearby, the Southeast Lighthouse, built in 1875, stands as a testament to the island’s seafaring history. Climb to the top for panoramic views and a deeper appreciation of the mariners who once relied on its guiding light. This spot is a highlight in every well-curated Block Island travel guide.
🚲 Explore by Bike: Trails & Hidden Beaches
Block Island is best explored on two wheels. Rent a bike and follow scenic roads past stone walls, open fields, and hidden coves where you can enjoy the solitude of nature. The Clayhead Nature Trail rewards hikers and cyclists with peaceful woodland paths and access to secluded beaches perfect for a picnic.
For birdwatchers, the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge offers a chance to spot migratory birds and native wildlife in their natural habitat, making it a favorite stop in any detailed Block Island travel guide.
🍽 Savor Block Island’s Culinary Delights
This seaside town delivers big on flavor:
- The Oar is a favorite for lobster rolls and clam chowder with marina views.
- Enjoy fresh-caught seafood at Spring House Hotel, where a wraparound porch creates an unforgettable dining experience.
- Cool off with locally made ice cream at Aldo’s, a beloved island tradition.
Don’t miss the farmer’s market, where local produce, cheeses, and baked goods showcase the island’s artisanal side. Exploring these culinary highlights is essential to any Block Island travel guide.
🚢 Getting There & Around
Reach Block Island by ferry from Point Judith, Rhode Island, or take the high-speed ferry from Newport or New London, Connecticut. For a quicker trip, flights are available from Westerly, RI.
Once on the island, biking and walking are the preferred modes of transport. Mopeds and small cars are available for rent but are best for exploring outlying areas. Transportation tips like these make every Block Island travel guide more practical and helpful for travelers.
💰 Travel Budget Guide
| Category | Estimated Cost (Per Day) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $200 – $400 (inns/hotels) |
| Meals | $100 – $160 (per person) |
| Transportation | $50 (bike/moped rental) |
| Activities | $40 – $80 (museums, tours) |
| Total | $390 – $690 |
🌟 Why Block Island is a Coastal Treasure
This Block Island travel guide highlights a place where time slows and coastal beauty takes center stage. From biking past windswept meadows to savoring lobster on a seaside porch, Block Island offers a refreshing escape for adventurers, romantics, and families alike. Whether visiting for a weekend or an extended summer holiday, this island delivers unforgettable moments.
🏝 Block Island Tourism Council Official Site
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