Vacation On Block Island

Block Island is a tiny strip of land 30 miles off the southern coast of Rhode Island. The area is said to have once been inhabited by the Wampanoag Indians. In the late 16 century, explorer Bartholomew Gosnold claimed the island for England which subsequently gave it its name: “Block Island” was a translation of its Dutch title “De Groot Eiland” meaning “The Large Island”.

Nothing beats the warmth of the sun on your face, the sand between your toes, and the cool water washing over you in gentle waves. That’s why I’m so glad we went to Block Island. It was a great family vacation that gave us lots of high energy memories. Here are my tips for your own memorable vacation on Block Island.

Planning a trip to Block Island is no small undertaking. Between hotel choices, transportation options, and fun activities, you have a lot of planning to do.

In the New England region of the U.S., Block Island is one of the most popular vacation spots. From a history of shipwrecks to a lighthouse dating back to 1846, Block Island, one of the smallest islands off the coast of Rhode Island and home to only around 500 people, has a lot of interesting facts that can be uncovered.

Before I get into this, I want to be clear that this is not a paid review. We absolutely did not receive any sort of monetary compensation for writing this post.

How to Get to Block Island

First things first: how to get there. You can get to Block Island by boat or plane, but most people opt to “sail away on the Block Island Ferry” to begin their journey. Just 30 minutes away via the fast ferry in Point Judith, RI, it’s also worth mentioning that if you plan to bring your car aboard the ferry, you’ll need to book it way in advance to ensure a spot.

They start taking ferry reservations for the coming season in early January each year, and the prime weekend slots tend to fill up quickly, so plan ahead for your Block Island day trip, or better yet, leave your car at home and stick to walking, biking and swimming as your preferred modes of transportation during your visit. If someone asks “do you need a car on Block Island,” the answer is, nope, not really!

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Best Time to Visit Block Island

Block Island is a beautiful place year round, but the population drastically decreases in winter months and very few businesses are open, so you’ll want to plan your trip between May and October when there are the most lodging options available, the weather is favorable and the shops, restaurants, and bars are all open for business.

Oh, and if you’re looking for Block Island things to do this weekend or wondering what’s open on Block Island, check out this Block Island events calendar to get up to date on what’s happening on Block Island!

Once you step foot on Block Island, be prepared to slow down and enjoy life on “island time” for a bit. Here’s what I recommend you do and see during your Block Island getaway.

Top Things to Do On Block Island

Take in the scene at Ballard’s

Just steps from the ferry landing in Old Harbor and one of the top bars in Block Island, Ballard’s is many people’s first – and sometimes only – stop on a day trip to the island. It’s easy to stay put at Ballard’s Block Island as they have everything you need for a day of fun in the sun. Ballard’s Beach is a private beach complete with lounge chair and umbrella rentals, tiki bars, beach volleyball, daily live music, and waitress service so you can dine and drink without ever leaving your spot in the sand.

Order up one of their specialty drinks served inside a whole carved pineapple, and you’ll feel about as tropical as it gets here in the Northeast. If you decide to make a night of it, there’s also an onsite hotel, and private beach bonfires can be arranged.

Check out the views at Mohegan Bluffs

Aerial view of rocky mountains and a beach and ocean at the bottom — Mohegan Bluffs Block Island

Standing about 200 feet above sea level, the views from these cliffs are undoubtedly some of the best on the island, but it doesn’t end there. After taking in the scenery from the top, you’ll want to muster up all your energy and make the trek down the 141 stairs to the Mohegan Bluffs beach below, where you’ll be rewarded with more spectacular views and an uncrowded spot to lay your towel down for the afternoon and soak up some rays.

Visit the North Light

This historic lighthouse should definitely be on your Block Island to do list; not only is the North Light one of the loveliest lighthouses in Rhode Island, but it has some other cool Block Island things to do nearby, too, like a museum that is open weekends Memorial Day to Columbus Day and Settler’s Rock, a monument to the first few settlers who arrived in Block Island in 1661. The views on this end of the island are spectacular, so come ready to take plenty of photos!

Swim at Mansion Beach

A sandy path between two fields — Mansion Beach Block Island

A bit off the beaten path, but totally worth it. Forgo the town beach and head to the best of Block Island beaches. Continue on until you come to a dirt road with a sign for Mansion Beach, where you’ll find a big dirt parking lot and a path straight down the beach, which offers great waves and great views; enjoying these coastal views is always one of the top activities on Block Island.

Browse unique Block Island shops

No big box stores here, you can find some very cool shopping in Block Island! From art galleries to jewelry stores to apparel shops, you can definitely find some interesting souvenirs to take home from your vacation in Block Island.

Explore the Island by Bike or Moped

A lighthouse behind a grey lightkeeper's house — Why not tour around Block Island for the day?

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or adventurous Block Island activities, exploring the island by bike or moped is definitely the way to go. You can visit the island’s famous lighthouses, explore the nature trails, beaches, and Great Salt Pond, and take frequent stops for a bite or a beverage along the way. Several places in town offer rentals, tours, and maps, including Old Harbor Bike Shop, Island Bike, and Aldo’s Mopeds.

Eat a Lobster Avocado BLT at Dead Eye Dicks

There’s certainly no shortage of places to eat and drink on Block Island, but this sandwich alone is worth a visit to Dead Eye Dicks! If you’re looking for where to eat on Block Island in the New Harbor section of the island, you’ll find tasty offerings for lunch, dinner, and cocktails with stunning sunset views from their deck.

Have a Mudslide at The Oar

Those who make the frequent Block Island trip know that mudslides are the unofficial cocktail of choice while on island time. One of the best around is served at the Oar, a casual outdoor spot overlooking the Great Salt Pond. As the name implies, the walls are adorned with personalized oars from the many visitors throughout the years. Go for the mudslide, but stay for the delicious food, people watching and spectacular sunsets.

Vacation On Block Island