401-789-6659During your Narragansett beach vacation, be sure to visit nearby Block Island, located 12 miles off the Rhode Island coast. The island is only a ferry ride away, and it offers all there is to love about the East Coast – dramatic seaside views, beautiful beaches, local history and architecture, and more. Here are a few tips for Block Island.
Getting to Block Island
From Narragansett, there are two ferries that will take you to Block Island and back, both of which depart from Point Judith. A 30-minute high-speed ferry operates seasonally whereas the 55-minute traditional ferry runs year-round. You may select from one-way tickets, round-trip tickets, multiple day round-trip tickets, and bike tickets.
Beaches
When it comes to things to do on Block Island, the beaches are perfect for swimming, having a picnic, clamming, or a pleasant stroll. There are many beaches, more than can be explored in a day. Some, such as Crescent Beach, are widely known to the public and include amenities such as bathrooms, concession stands, rent chairs, cabanas, and the like. Others are still mostly local secrets, such as Baby Beach. Then there are beaches like Andy’s Way that offer plenty of opportunity to wade for local wildlife, such as crabs and clams. Vaill Beach is ideal for surfing and offers some of the island’s best sunsets. Whatever your preferences, you’re sure to find the right beach for you on Block Island!
Things to Do
Besides beaches, there are plenty of things to see and do. To get out in nature, take a stroll along Mohegan Bluffs, which rise 200 feet and offer exquisite vistas. There’s also the Block Island National Refuge Center and Cow Cove/North Light Area, giving visitors a great chance to experience local biodiversity. The Block Island Maritime Institute is the perfect place for educational and maritime activities that the whole family will appreciate.
Taking a trip through history, the Empire Theatre is the island’s sole movie theatre and dates back to 1882, when it was then a roller rink. The Yellow Kittens Tavern is the country’s 97th oldest bar and serves legendary margaritas along with great Mexican food. They’re open from 11:30am to 7:30pm. Come visit before closing hours to experience the music and dancing.
There are many other shops and small attractions worth a visit. For a more comprehensive look at the island, you can take a tour by boat, kayak, bike, or even a self-guided 2-mile walking tour.
Arts and Culture
There are a few local galleries and art shops on the island, perfect for anyone looking for a local Rhode Island gift or souvenir. Greenway Galleries offers Block Island photographs by resident photographer Malcolm Greenway. Contemporary American paintings, drawings, sculpture, and more can be found at the Jessie Edwards Gallery, which occasionally features artist receptions and exhibitions. The Photo Dog Art Gallery offers some unique selections, including handcrafted teak frames and Block Island driftwood signs. Everything from watercolors to pottery are for sale at the Spring Street Gallery, which serves as a cooperative gallery space.
Stop by any of these galleries or shops on your trip to Block Island and find something special for a keepsake.
Narragansett Vacation Rentals
Spend a relaxing day on Block Island before catching the ferry back to your Narragansett vacation rental. We provide a wide variety of rentals to suit your family’s needs, including beautiful Narragansett summer rentals. For closest proximity to the great Atlantic, consider Narragansett waterfront rentals. With panoramic views, fully-stocked kitchen, and entertainment centers, these gorgeous waterfront rentals are the perfect getaway for any couple or family. Plan a trip to Rhode Island today to experience its beautiful seaside communities!
