Block Island: The Bermuda of the North

Located 12 miles off the coast of Rhode Island, Block Island offers the charm of the Victorian era with a rugged, windswept beauty. The Nature Conservancy has designated it one of the “Last Great Places” in the Western Hemisphere because over 40% of the island is conserved open space.

In 2026, Block Island remains the unpretentious alternative to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. There are no chain stores (except a Post Office) and no traffic lights. It is a place of rolling green hills, stone walls, and dramatic clay cliffs that drop into the Atlantic.

Why Visit Block Island in 2026?

It is accessible yet feels remote. In 2026, the island is a haven for cyclists and hikers, with miles of trails (the Greenway) weaving through the conservation land. It has a relaxed, “shorts and t-shirt” vibe that families love.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (July - August): The water is warm (21°C), the hydrangeas are blooming, and the ferries are full.
Shoulder (June & September): The water is still swimmable in September, and the island is peaceful.
Fall (October): Great for hiking and birdwatching (migratory path), but many businesses close after Columbus Day.

How to Get There

Ferry:
- Point Judith (Galilee): The only car ferry (Block Island Ferry). Takes 55 mins. Also runs a high-speed passenger cat (30 mins).
- New London (CT): High-speed ferry.
- Newport (RI): High-speed ferry.
Fly: New England Airlines flies from Westerly, RI. The flight takes 12 minutes!

Iconic Experiences & Sights

1. Mohegan Bluffs

The must-see. towering clay cliffs on the south shore that rise 200 feet from the sea. A long wooden staircase (141 steps) leads down to the beach. The view from the top is spectacular—you can see Montauk (NY) on a clear day.

2. Southeast Lighthouse

Located at the top of the Bluffs. An 1874 brick lighthouse that was physically moved back from the eroding cliff edge in 1993. It is a museum today.

3. North Light

At the northern tip (Sandy Point). A stone lighthouse sitting on a wildlife refuge. The walk out to it along the beach is beautiful but windy. Note: The rip current here is dangerous—do not swim at the tip.

4. Mansion Beach

One of the grandest beaches. Famous for its big waves (great for body surfing) and the ruins of an old mansion that burned down.

5. The Empire Theater

A spooky, historic movie theater in town. It feels like stepping back into the 1920s.

6. Cycling the Island

The island is hilly but manageable. Renting a bike (or moped) is the standard way to get around. The loop around the island is about 13 miles.

Where to Stay

Old Harbor: The main town where the ferry docks. Victorian hotels like the National Hotel overlook the water. Bustling.
New Harbor (Great Salt Pond): The marina side. Famous for The Oar restaurant and sunsets.
Ballard’s: A beach party hotel right on the sand near the ferry. Loud and fun.

Gastronomy: Mudslides and Chowder

Mudslide: The island’s signature drink. Vodka, Kahlua, Bailey’s, and ice cream. Drink it at The Oar while watching the boats.
Clam Cakes & Chowder: Deep-fried dough balls with clams inside. A Rhode Island staple.
Lobster: Available everywhere.

Sustainability & Wind Farm

Block Island Wind Farm: The first offshore wind farm in the US (5 turbines) is located just off the coast. It powers the entire island (and sends power back to the mainland). You can take boat tours to see them up close.

Safety and Tips

Lyme Disease: Deer ticks are very common. Stay on trails and check yourself.
Mopeds: Moped accidents are the #1 cause of injury for tourists. The roads are narrow and sandy. If you aren’t experienced, rent a bike or car instead.
Reservations: If bringing a car, book the ferry months in advance.

Digital Nomad Life

Block Island is a seasonal workspace. In the summer, cafes like the Persephone’s Kitchen are filled with people on laptops. The library provides excellent free wifi. However, the island shuts down significantly in winter. For a nomad looking for a focused “writer’s retreat” in the off-season (October-April), it offers solitude and stark beauty, but prepare for isolation and limited ferry schedules.

Family Travel

Block Island was practically designed for families.

Baby Beach: Located near the Surf Hotel, this beach has calm water and is the go-to spot for families with toddlers.
Abrams Animal Farm: Located near the Spring House Hotel, this small farm has camels, kangaroos, and llamas. It’s free to visit and a massive hit with kids.
Ice Cream: Getting a scoop at The Ice Cream Place after dinner is a nightly ritual.

Shopping

Glass Floats: The “Glass Float Project” is a unique island treasure hunt. Every year, 550 glass orbs (dated and numbered) are hidden on the beaches and trails. If you find one, you keep it! It’s the ultimate souvenir.
Farmers Market: Held on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Buy local honey, jam, and art.

Block Island is nostalgic. It is summer as it used to be. It is green hills, blue ocean, and the simple joy of a bike ride in the sun.