Block Island Travel Guide

With a unique environment formed by glaciers about 10,000 years ago, Block Island is an interesting, family-friendly vacation destination. Water activities are among the most popular things to do on the island, and it's no surprise; there are over 17 miles of wide, sandy beaches and 350 ponds filled with freshwater from natural springs. The only downside is that the accommodations, food, and activities are all pricey on Block Island, especially in the summer when the weather is at its best and all the visitors come to town.

Activities

Block Island is a major yachting destination; it has two nice harbors, the new one on the West side of the Island in the Great Salt Pond, and and old one on the East side which is near the center of town and has a protective breakwater. Both salt water and fresh water fishing are popular with tourists and locals due to the easy access to ponds and the sea. Sport fishing is offered by the Persuader Sportfishing Charters. Parasailing is common, as the area is quite windy on a normal day. You can rent a kayak or paddle boat for the day as well to explore the island. Rustic Rides Farms provides horseback riding and carriage rides. The Farmer's Market and the North Light House are always entertaining to visit. However, the best and cheapest activity you can do on Block Island is simply to enjoy the beaches. Build a sandcastle with your kids, bask in the sun, jump into the cold water, or just stroll along the coast.

Food

Being next to the ocean, with fresh seafood available everyday, it's obvious that the food of choice here is all kinds of fish and shellfish. It is the specialty of almost every restaurant on Block Island. From Aldo's Italian Seafood Restaurant, to Finn's Seafood Restaurant, to G R Sharky's, you'll definitly have a lot of choices for good seafood. Also, the various ice cream places near the beach are excellent if you're craving a sweet treat.

Accommodations

The majority of hotels and inns are historical, Victorian places that have been renovated with all the modern conveniences. They'll cost you anywhere from $100 USD to over $300. Keep in mind that prices go up in the summer. The National Hotel is a Block Island landmark; built in 1888, it overlooks the Atlantic with Victorian elegance. Hotel Manisses is also a well-known Victorian hotel which has whirlpool tubs in some rooms and provides breakfast. Another excellent historical inn is The 1661 Inn which has room with decks overlooking the ocean and fireplaces.