An insider’s guide to Block Island, RI

Block Island? Where is that anyway? No one really seems to know where “the block” is if given a map & that’s exactly what makes it so special. This secret New England gem off the coast of Rhode Island has been a sanctuary for vacationers since the 1800s. Boasting rolling hills, historic inns, fresh seafood, and beaches with crystal clear water – it has all of the charms of the better known New England islands without all the foot traffic.

For the first few years of our relationship, going to block island was a joke between my boyfriend and I. His family continued their generational tradition of visiting the island for a week every summer. I, being a nursing major, always had work or clinical and could never join them. The joke was that until about three years ago, I didn’t think Block Island really existed. Marshall, my boyfriend, would talk dreamily about a place with perfect beaches, amazing hikes, charming lighthouses, and crafted cocktails enjoyed while overlooking the ocean. – All of this just a ferry ride out of Narragansett, RI. I didn’t believe such a paradise could exist this close to home.

If you love Rhode Island, but can’t make it to the Block try my review of Tiverton here

Well, many years later, I finally got to see the beauty of the block for myself. It rarely disappoints. While the weather this year was moody during our week on the island, it was none less beautiful. If you are looking for a more low key vacation, the block IS the place for you. We’ve compiled our favorite eats and activities for you to try whether you will be staying for the day, the night, or the entire week.

Where to Eat in Block Island, RI

stop at Persephone’s for a coffee and a breakfast bowl

sandwiches or a bagel at the Old Post Office bagel shop

Grab lunch at the Oar

Get seafood to go (we recommend shucking oysters at home!) at Finn’s

Apps & a drink at the Beach Head

the donuts from Payne’s Killer Donuts are a must

Where to Stay in Block Island

we always recommend checking in with Sullivan Realty. It is the best way to snag a rental before the summer. Note that they take reservations starting in November, so make sure you get the ball rolling if you are truly interested!

There are many gorgeous historic inns on the island if you are staying for the weekend. I’ve included some of the most photogenic below:

What to do

Hike the trails at Clayhead

Check out the eclectic zoo at the 1661 inn

Rent a scooter and bop around the rolling hills

Have a fancy drink and watch the sunset at the Springhouse

Head to the beach – we recommend Mansion or State beach ( we will NEVER share our real favorite here 😉 )

Go to the bluffs and grab an instagram on the stairs

Check out both of the resident lighthouses!

best dive bar – Club Soda

Shop and grab a souvenir on Water St

get a fire permit and have a campfire on the beach