The first time I stepped off the ferry onto Block Island, the air felt lighter in a way I didn’t quite expect clean and a little salty, but also soft, almost like it had been filtered through miles of open water before finally reaching the dock.
Old Harbor is the kind of place that doesn’t try to impress you. It’s small, a cluster of wooden buildings, bikes leaning against fences, and a steady shuffle of people heading toward the beach with towels over their shoulders.
Within a few minutes, you can walk from the ferry landing to a café, the sand, or a bike rental shop without ever crossing a busy road. That ease is what pulled me in right away.
Even in midsummer, when the ferries feel packed and everyone’s trying to squeeze a little sun into their day, the island somehow stays calm. People slow down without thinking about it. Conversations soften.
You start noticing small things like how the water near the harbor turns silver in the late afternoon or how the breeze picks up the sound of laughter from Ballard’s long before you see the beach.
And that’s the charm of Block Island. It’s not a place built around big attractions or loud itineraries. It’s an island where you can forget about schedules for a while, wander down a road because it looks pretty, and know you’ll eventually end up at the ocean again.
Quick Answer The Best Things to Do on Block Island
If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to know the highlights before diving into the details, here’s the honest version. Block Island is small, so the places that stand out really do earn their reputation.
Mohegan Bluffs is the spot that stays with you long after you leave. The cliffs rise dramatically above the water, and on a clear day the ocean turns this deep, layered blue that’s almost impossible to describe.
The wooden staircase down to the beach looks intimidating at first, but the view from halfway down where you can see the waves curling into the sand far below is worth slowing your steps for.
If you want to see the island properly, hop on a bike and follow the loop road. It’s the easiest way to understand how everything connects: the quiet inland stretches, the sudden flash of water around a bend, the lighthouses appearing in the distance.
You don’t need to be a serious cyclist. Most people ride at a relaxed pace, stopping whenever something catches their eye, which is often.
The lighthouses, North Light and Southeast Light, feel like opposites. North Light sits at the end of a long, windy walk across pebbles where the island feels raw and open. Southeast Light, perched above the bluffs, feels gentler and more classic, with grassy areas where you can sit and take in the horizon.
For beach time, Mansion Beach is the one I always return to. It’s a little farther from town, which keeps it quieter, and the waves here have a rhythm that’s easy to fall into. Some people spend whole afternoons doing nothing more than wading in and out of the surf, and honestly, that’s the right way to enjoy it.
If you want something calmer, head toward Great Salt Pond in the afternoon. The water here is still and glassy, perfect for paddle boarding or just watching the boats drift as the light softens. It’s also where the island slows down the most families walking along the docks, people lingering over early dinners, that kind of moment.
And yes, Ballard’s is exactly what you’ve heard: sandy, lively, loud in a fun way, and steps from the ferry. If you’re in the mood for music and a drink with your feet in the sand, it’s the easiest place to land. If not, it’s just as easy to wander somewhere quieter.
How to Get to Block Island
Most people reach Block Island by ferry, and choosing the right route can make your whole day run more smoothly. The ferries all feel slightly different, some are quick and breezy, some are slower and better for taking in the water, and a few are seasonal and feel more like a mini summer escape than simple transportation.
Here’s the version I wish I had the first time I went, when I stared at the ferry schedule wondering why there were so many options for such a small island.
The Point Judith route in Rhode Island is by far the most popular, and for good reason. The high speed ferry gets you to the island in around half an hour, which makes it perfect if you’re trying to maximize a day trip or if you don’t like being on the water too long.
For anyone wanting to bring a car, the traditional ferry is the only one that allows it, and the ride is closer to an hour. It’s slower but steady, and families often prefer this one because you can walk around more easily and enjoy the views from the deck.
Parking near the terminal fills quickly on summer weekends, so arriving a little earlier than you think you need to is a good idea.
Travelers coming from Connecticut or Massachusetts often prefer the New London ferry, which is also high speed and takes about an hour. It’s one of the few routes besides the traditional Point Judith ferry that allows cars, so it’s a convenient option for families or anyone carrying more gear than they want to haul by foot or bike.
The ride feels smooth and spacious, and the terminal area is easy to navigate if you’re new to it.
If you’re already spending time in Newport, the seasonal Newport–Block Island ferry feels almost like a bonus adventure. It’s a high speed, passenger only service that reaches the island in about an hour.
Because it’s seasonal, the atmosphere is always energetic, lots of day trippers, lots of beach bags, and the kind of summer excitement you can feel as soon as you get in line.
There’s also a seasonal ferry from Montauk, which is ideal for anyone coming from Long Island or NYC. This one is fast, also about an hour, and attracts a completely different crowd: more surf bags, more coolers, more groups who are clearly making a full beach day out of it.
It’s passenger only, but the convenience of going directly from Montauk to Block Island is hard to beat.
If you’re unsure which option to choose, here’s the honest shortcut:
If you want a simple, no stress trip, the Point Judith high speed ferry is the one that consistently runs on time and gets you there quickly.
If you need your car, there’s no real choice: you’ll want the Point Judith traditional ferry. Everything else depends on where you’re coming from and the kind of travel mood you’re in.
Practical Ferry Tips
If you’re visiting in summer, the ferries can feel like half the adventure, but they also fill up much faster than most people expect. Weekends, especially Saturdays, are the first to go, so it’s worth booking your ticket as soon as you know your dates.
I’ve seen people walk up to the terminal assuming they could buy same day seats, only to find that the morning departures were completely sold out.
Parking is another small thing that makes a big difference. At Point Judith, the lots closest to the dock fill by late morning on warm days.
If you’re taking an early ferry, you’ll be fine, but if your departure is closer to lunchtime, give yourself extra breathing room so you’re not circling the lots while watching the time tick by.
Street parking is limited, and the paid lots while convenient can back up with cars all arriving at once.
If you’re planning to bike the island, try not to reserve your rental for a specific hour unless it lines up comfortably after your ferry arrival. Boats can run behind schedule, and it’s nicer to start your day without worrying about rushing from the dock to a rental counter.
Most bike shops in Old Harbor are used to people arriving in waves and are flexible as long as they know you’re coming.
One thing that sometimes surprises first timers is how different the ride feels on the fast ferries compared to the traditional ones. High speed boats cut down the travel time, which is great, but they can bounce a bit more on windy days.
If you’re someone who gets seasick easily, sitting near the center of the boat or staying outside in the fresh air can make a huge difference. On calm days, though, the ride feels smooth and quick just long enough to watch the horizon shift and get that first glimpse of the island.
Best Time to Visit & What to Expect
Block Island shifts with the seasons, and the feel of the island can change a lot depending on when you go. In May and June, everything is just starting to wake up from winter. The air is cool, the beaches are quiet, and you’ll see wildflowers along the walking paths.
Most restaurants and shops are open or about to open, so it’s a peaceful time to explore without the summer rush.
July and August are the classic summer months. The water finally warms up, the island gets busy, and every day seems perfect for the beach. It’s lively families, bikes everywhere, long lines at seafood spots but it’s also the season when the island feels the most energetic and carefree.
September is my personal favorite. The crowds thin, but the warm weather lingers, and the sea stays comfortable. The light gets softer, the days feel slower in the best way, and you still have access to all the restaurants and activities without the peak season bustle.
From October through April, the island becomes much quieter. Many seasonal businesses close, and the beaches shift from swimming spots to peaceful walking stretches. Ferries still run, and if you enjoy solitude and a wide open shoreline, this season has its own calm beauty.
Top Things to Do on Block Island
These are the places and moments that feel most like Block Island to me, the ones that stay with you long after you’ve rinsed the sand off your feet and headed back to the mainland.
They aren’t just “attractions.” They’re small experiences that show you what the island is really about: wind, water, long horizons, and simple hours that stretch more than you expect.
Mohegan Bluffs
Mohegan Bluffs is the kind of place where you automatically stop talking the moment you step onto the overlook. The cliffs rise sharply above the ocean, and when the sun hits the water just right, it glows in shades of turquoise you don’t usually see in New England. If you’re up for the climb, take the wooden staircase down to the beach.
It’s a bit of a workout coming back up, but the shoreline below feels hidden, almost secret waves crashing against the base of the cliffs while gulls circle high above. Early mornings and late afternoons are especially beautiful here, when the light settles softly across the water.
North Light (Block Island North Lighthouse)
At the northern tip, the landscape feels quieter and more rugged. North Light sits out on a stretch of sand and pebbles, and getting there requires a short walk across uneven ground. It’s not difficult, but you’ll want shoes you can comfortably wander in.
The reward is a lighthouse that feels almost alone in the world, surrounded by open sky and the sweeping meeting point of the Atlantic and Block Island Sound. On windy days, the air carries a wildness you don’t get in town, a reminder that you’ve reached one of the island’s edges.
Southeast Light
Southeast Light might be one of the most photographed spots on the island, and once you’re there, it’s obvious why. Perched above the bluffs, the lighthouse looks out over a stretch of coastline that feels both dramatic and peaceful.
There’s a small museum inside if you want a bit of history, but you can also just wander around the grassy area outside, take in the view, and sit for a moment if the weather is good. It’s one of those places where you find yourself lingering longer than planned.
Bike or Moped the Island Loop
The best way to absorb Block Island is on two wheels. The island loop is about thirteen miles, but most of it rolls gently along, so you don’t need to be an athlete to enjoy it. You’ll pass quiet inland roads, farm stands, views of the ocean popping up unexpectedly, and long stretches where it’s just you, the breeze, and the sound of your tires on the pavement.
Most people take anywhere from forty five minutes to a couple of hours, depending on how often they stop which, if you’re anything like me, will be often. The lighthouse viewpoints alone are worth slowing down for. In summer, electric bikes are easy to find if you want the climb free version of the experience.
Ballard’s
Ballard’s is the opposite of quiet lighthouses and cliff walks, but that’s exactly why it belongs on this list. It’s loud in a fun way with music playing, people dancing on the sand, bright umbrellas lining the beach, and drinks appearing the moment you decide you want one.
Because it’s steps from the ferry, it’s a natural first stop or even a last hurrah before heading home. You can stay for an hour or stay for the afternoon; Ballard’s doesn’t really care, and that’s part of its charm.
Great Salt Pond (New Harbor)
If you want the gentler side of the island, head to Great Salt Pond. The water here is calm, almost glassy on still days, and the whole area feels like it’s moving at a slower speed. You can rent paddleboards or kayaks and drift around the harbor, book a short sailing trip, or simply sit near the docks and watch boats come and go.
Sunset here is one of my favorite moments on the island. The light settles over the water, everything softens, and conversations around you fade into a kind of relaxed hush.
Mansion Beach
Mansion Beach feels a little removed from the rest of the island, and that’s what makes it so good. The sand is soft, the waves are steady, and even in the height of summer it rarely feels packed.
It’s a natural, open stretch of shoreline where you can lay down a towel, close your eyes, and forget that town is only a short bike ride away. On warm days, people linger for hours, getting in and out of the water as the sun tracks overhead.
Crescent Beach & Baby Beach
Crescent Beach stretches along the eastern side of the island and has room for everyone: families, couples, solo travelers with a book, and anyone who just wants a calm afternoon.
The southern end, known as Baby Beach, has shallow, gentle water that’s great for kids or anyone who prefers a softer entry. It’s also an easy place to settle in if you don’t want to travel far from Old Harbor.
Rodman’s Hollow
If you want a break from the beach and a little time surrounded by nature, Rodman’s Hollow is perfect. Formed by glacial activity thousands of years ago, it dips and curves in dramatic, unexpected ways.
The walking paths take you through quiet, rolling terrain with views that open suddenly toward the ocean. It’s peaceful, a little wild, and one of the best places on the island to slow down and reset.
Seafood Spots & Local Favorites
Good food is easy to find on Block Island, but there are a few places I always end up returning to. Dead Eye Dicks is great if you want seafood with a view you can sit outside and watch the harbor while you eat.
Mohegan Café is reliable and relaxed, the kind of place where you can stroll in after a long day at the beach without worrying about being sandy.
And if you’re in the mood for something lively, Ballard’s serves meals right on the sand, which makes lunch feel like part of the day’s adventure.
Best Beaches on Block Island
Block Island has beaches for every kind of traveler, and the best part is how different they all feel despite being so close together. Here’s what you can expect when your toes finally hit the sand.
Ballard’s Beach
Ballard’s is the first beach most people stumble onto simply because it’s steps from the ferry. The atmosphere here always feels like summer turned up a little louder, umbrellas in bright colors, music drifting across the sand, and people stretched out with drinks in hand.
If you’re looking for a classic beach bar afternoon or you only have a few hours on the island, this is the easiest place to settle in. The crowd can get lively, especially on warm weekends, but that’s part of the charm. It’s beach time without any planning.
Mansion Beach
Mansion Beach sits a bit farther from town, and that small distance makes a world of difference. The moment you walk down the path, the noise of Old Harbor disappears and you’re met with a wide, open stretch of sand and steady waves rolling onto shore.
The water here feels brighter, the sand softer, and the whole beach has a more natural, untouched vibe. It’s a beautiful place for photos, but also the kind of spot where you can spend an entire afternoon doing nothing but listening to the surf and feeling the sun move across the sky.
Crescent Beach
Crescent Beach is the long, gentle curve of shoreline you’ll see as you head north from town. There’s plenty of room to spread out, walk a few minutes away from the main entry points and you’ll find quieter stretches even in August.
The waves here are calmer than at Mansion Beach, and the sand is perfect for long walks, beachcombing, or simply picking a spot to settle in with a book. It’s a classic New England beach day with a relaxed rhythm that makes you want to stay until the shadows grow long.
Baby Beach
Just south of Crescent Beach, Baby Beach lives up to its name. The water is shallow and calm, making it a favorite for families with young kids or anyone who prefers wading over waves.
It’s also incredibly easy to reach from Old Harbor, so if you’re visiting without a car or you just want the quickest path to the ocean you’ll appreciate how simple it is to walk here with a towel over your shoulder.
The beach is small, but the atmosphere is soft and friendly, and the gentle surf makes it a comforting place to spend an hour or two.
Two Day Weekend on Block Island
Day 1
For a weekend trip, you have the luxury of slowing everything down. Arrive by late morning, check into your place if it’s ready, and then ease into the day with the island loop. Instead of treating it like a workout, take it at whatever tempo feels good.
Stop for views, wander down paths that look interesting, and let the island unfold a little at a time. The ride naturally leads you past farms, quiet roads, and coastline that comes and goes like chapters.
Southeast Light makes an ideal mid ride break. The lawn around the lighthouse is perfect for sitting for a moment, reapplying sunscreen, and deciding whether you want to explore more or start thinking about food.
In the evening, head toward Great Salt Pond. The entire area has this unhurried, nautical feel boats rocking gently, the sunset reflecting off the water, and restaurants filling slowly as people drift in after long beach days. Dinner here always feels like a reward.
Day 2
Start your second morning on or near the water. Renting a paddleboard or kayak on Great Salt Pond is an easy way to settle into the day, and the water is calm enough that even beginners feel comfortable. There’s something grounding about gliding across that quiet stretch of harbor before the afternoon crowds arrive.
Later on, trade the water for a little land adventure at Rodman’s Hollow. The walk isn’t difficult, but the scenery is striking rolling terrain shaped by glaciers, open views toward the ocean, and stretches of solitude you wouldn’t think possible on such a small island. If you’re carrying snacks or coffee, this is a peaceful place to pause.
By the time you head back toward town for lunch, you’ll feel like you’ve seen both the energetic and the gentle sides of Block Island. Grab a final meal, wander through the shops if you have time, and make your way to the late ferry with that pleasantly tired feeling that comes from two full days of being outside.
Food & Drink: Where I’d Go
Eating on Block Island is easy in the best way, nothing feels fussy, most places welcome sandy feet, and the food often tastes a little better simply because you’ve spent the whole day outside.
In the mornings, I usually keep things simple. Old Harbor has a couple of small cafés where you can grab a pastry or a breakfast sandwich and an iced coffee without much waiting around.
It’s the kind of breakfast you eat while walking toward your bike or down to the water, still waking up as the island does. If you’re catching an early ferry, this makes a perfect first stop before starting your day.
By lunchtime, especially after exploring the bluffs or biking the loop, you’ll want something filling. Mohegan Café is an easy go because it’s right in town and reliably good, nothing overly fancy, just solid meals with quick service.
There are also a few seafood shacks scattered around Old Harbor and New Harbor where you can order chowder, fish sandwiches, or baskets of fried clams. Most have outdoor seating, which always feels right after a morning in the sun.
Dinner is where I tend to slow down a little. Dead Eye Dicks is one of those places that’s popular for good reason.
The seafood is fresh, the view of the harbor is beautiful at sunset, and the atmosphere is relaxed enough that you don’t feel out of place whether you’re dressed up a bit or still carrying a day’s worth of salt in your hair. It’s the kind of meal that anchors the day and makes you want to linger.
When it comes to drinks, you have options depending on your mood. If you want something lively, Ballard’s is the place for music, people laughing, and cocktails that arrive quickly even on busy days. It’s energetic, loud, and undeniably fun.
But if you’d rather end your day quietly, head toward Great Salt Pond instead. Many of the restaurants and bars there have outdoor seating where you can watch the sky turn amber over the water. It’s soft, peaceful, and the perfect counterbalance to a full island day.
Where to Stay on Block Island
Choosing where to stay on Block Island shapes the kind of trip you’ll have. The island is small, but each area has its own atmosphere, and it’s worth thinking about what kind of pace you want.
If it’s your first visit, Old Harbor is usually the easiest choice. This is where the ferry drops you off, and everything you might need cafés, bike rentals, restaurants, small shops, even quick access to the beach is within walking distance. You can step out of your hotel or inn and be in the middle of the island’s energy within seconds.
It’s ideal if you don’t plan on bringing a car, because you really don’t need one here. The trade off is that Old Harbor is busier and can feel a little louder at night, especially on warm weekends. But for a first timer who wants convenience, it’s perfect.
Just a short distance away, New Harbor, near Great Salt Pond, has a completely different feel. It’s quieter and more spread out, with a gentle, boating atmosphere that settles over the area in the evenings. You’ll see sailboats bobbing in the harbor, people strolling slowly toward the docks, and sunsets that turn the water shades of gold and pink.
This is a great spot if you want a peaceful base with easy access to paddleboarding, kayaking, and some of the island’s calmer restaurants. It feels less like a “town center” and more like a retreat.
If you’re looking for true quiet, the area near Mohegan Bluffs gives you that sense of escape. The views here are some of the most dramatic on the island: high cliffs, open ocean, and long stretches of sky.
Staying near the bluffs means you’re a bit farther from shops and restaurants, but you gain early morning calm, incredible stargazing, and a restful atmosphere that’s hard to beat. It’s ideal for couples, repeat visitors, or anyone who wants privacy and a slower, more scenic stay.
Accessibility & Family Tips
Block Island is beautiful, but some areas take a bit of planning if you’re visiting with kids or anyone who prefers easier terrain. Mohegan Bluffs is a good example; the viewpoint at the top is accessible to everyone, but the long staircase down to the beach is steep and uneven.
If you’re traveling with a stroller or someone who doesn’t love stairs, it’s better to enjoy the view from above.
For a low stress beach day, Baby Beach is the easiest spot. The walk from town is simple, the sand slopes gently into the water, and the waves stay calm enough for small children to splash around without worry. It’s the spot I usually recommend for families who want to keep things simple.
Across the island, many walking paths have sand or small stones underfoot, so sturdier shoes are helpful especially if you plan to walk out to North Light or explore Rodman’s Hollow. And while most restaurants have clean restrooms, the beaches don’t have many facilities, so it’s smart to plan bathroom breaks around mealtimes or café stops.
Conclusion
Every time I leave Block Island, I think about those small in between moments biking up a gentle hill, feeling the breeze shift, and suddenly seeing the ocean open up beside me. The island may be small, but the views feel wide and the days stretch out in a way that makes everything slow down.
Whether you’re visiting for a single day or settling in for a quiet weekend, Block Island has a calm, easy rhythm that’s hard not to fall into. Let it guide you a little, you’ll enjoy the island more that way.