BLOCK
Close To Home, A World Away
2020
ISLAND
Block Island Tourism Council
Rhode Island
Stay with us and enjoy our home. www.blockislandresorts.com (401) 466-2421 (800) 626-4773
Many Newly Renovated Rooms
Take in Our Expansive Ocean Views
Tour Our Farm & Gardens
The Atlantic Inn & Restaurant 1879 A Block Island Tradition
Relaxation at it’s best!
Cocktails
Breakthing Views
Tapas
Rooms with a Victorian Charm
Fine Dining & More!
WWW.ATLANTICINN.COM www.blockislandinfo.com
401-466-5883 Close To Home, A World Away
1
Come Home To
Block Island
Real Estate Sales and Service Whether you are looking to purchase that special Island property or planning a relaxing vacation, Ballard Hall Real Estate is on-island year round to assist you. Sign-up at our website, blockislandproperty.com, browse our listings and connect with one of our agents for buyer or seller representation. Principal Broker: Gail Ballard Hall Associate Brokers: Blake Phelan, Judith Cyronak Licensees: Michele Phelan, David Graham, Chelsea Redd Phelan, Laurel Littlefield, and Elizabeth Carlson (RI & CT) Office Assistants: Heidi Tallmadge and Diane Kildea
www.blockislandproperty.com info@blockislandproperty.com Corner of Ocean Ave. and Corn Neck Rd 401-466-8883
Coast To Coast In 12 Minutes
Daily Flights Free Parking at Westerly Airport
The Fastest Way to Block Island
Information & Reservations 800.243.2460 Block Island 401.466.5881 Westerly 401.596.2460 blockislandsairline.com
2 Close To Home, A World Away
Block Island’s Resident Airline Since 1970
www.blockislandinfo.com
Block Island Beckons TRAVELING TO BLOCK ISLAND is a
Ballard’s in 1956, he knew that Block
little bit like arriving in another country,
Island was a special place. All year long
or perhaps another era. No traffic lights,
tourists look forward to summer on
no highways, no chain restaurants. Aside
Block Island, when the hotels, restau-
from the glorious beaches and sparkling
rants, and shops are in full-swing. There’s
ocean, many of the island’s extraordinary
nothing like live entertainment on the
facets are not immediately apparent. But
beach, dining on the porch of an historic
to those who grew up here, like myself,
hotel, and a day of leisure in the sun
and those who visit the island year after
with family and friends. When traveling
year, there is much more than meets the
outside of Rhode Island, many people
eye, with a vibrant local community and
have recognized the Block Island logo
a connection to nature not found on the
on my favorite t-shirt, and it’s an instant
mainland. With farmers markets, historic
conversation-starter! People from near
home tours, nature walks, and special
and far have fond memories of Block
activities for children, there is always
Island. Now, more than ever, there is truly
matter what, everyone will be charmed
something going on around town. In the
something for everyone on the island.
by the island’s picturesque sights and
fall and winter, business owners prepare
From quaint bed and breakfasts to newly
will discover what it’s like to be on
for the busy tourist season, eager to give
renovated Victorian hotels, from carry-
“island time.”
visitors a memorable day trip or vacation.
out restaurants to fine dining, tourists
Steven Filippi
When my father, Paul Filippi Sr., opened
can plan their trip as they choose. No
President, Block Island Tourism Council
Steven Filippi, with wife Lauren, and their children Landon and Natalie.
BLOCK ISLAND FISHWORKS
Full Service Bait & Tackle Shop, Fishing Charters & Fly Fishing Guide Service
WWW.BIFISHWORKS.COM
FORT ISLAND KAYAKS & SUP’S Hourly, daily, & weekly rentals, group rates 40 OCEAN AVE, NEW HARBOR www.blockislandinfo.com
401-466-5392 & 401-742-3992 Close To Home, A World Away
3
Safe Haven by Whitney Knapp
To Rent. To Buy. To Love. Representing distinctive properties at all price points on Block Island Your Hometown Realtors with International Reach
©
Cynthia Pappas, Broker • Rebecca Pappas Clark, Associate Broker Gail Heinz, Shannon Morgan, Lynn Poston, Colby Millikin, Tony Pappas, Sales Agents
Telephone: 401 466-5521 • Fax: 401 466-5369 • Email: info@sullivanbi.com
www.sullivanbi.com Each office independently owned and operated
{ BLOCK ISLAND FERRY. COM } { 866.783.7996 TOLL FREE }
THE BLOCK ISLAND FERRY
See schedules on page 40 and 41 4 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
www.blockislandinfo.com
Close To Home, A World Away
5
Aldo’s
Italian Seafood Restaurant and Pizzeria A taste of Italy on Block Island
Full Air Conditioned Bar Gluten Free Pasta Available Featuring Fresh Seafood, Choice Veal, Chicken and Beef Weldon’s Way ~ in the heart of Old Harbor
401-466-5871
Take-out available • Homemade sauces to go
Home of the Original Block Island Pepperoni Bread
9 Soft Serve Ice Cream & Yogurt Flavors 32 Homemade Ice Cream Flavors • 24 Gelato Flavors ICED COFFEE FRESH FRUIT SMOOTHIES Regular & Flavored
Fresh Fruit & Yogurt Parfaits
CAKES
BRING THE KIDS
Made To Order
Enjoy Treats & Our Game Room
DAILY SPECIALS SERVING FULL BREAKFAST $8.50/Dozen Bagels Or Donuts
Breakfast Sandwiches Made to Order 7AM - 11:30PM
The Leone and Papa families Serving Block Islanders since 1970
Visit aldosrestaurantblockisland.com for full menu and catering menu
Since 1970
OPEN DAILY 6AM - 11PM
WELDON’S WAY
401-466-2198
ALDOSBAKERY.COM
Mention seeing our ad in the Block Island Tourism Magazine and receive a 15% discount!
Beach Real Estate www.biBeachRealEstate.com
“Let us show you the most beautiful properties on Block Island.”
Can you picture yourself here? For a week or a life time, we are here to serve all your Real Estate needs with friendly, competent service. Contact us now to see how we can help you!
Mary y E. Stover and Nancy y D. Pike,, Brokers P.O. Box 1468, 84 Chapel Street, Block Island, RI 02807 • 401-466-2312 6 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
Block Island: Close To Home, A World Away is produced jointly by the Block Island Tourism Council and The Block Island Times.
The Block Island Tourism Council Center Road, Box 356, Block Island, RI 02807 www.blockislandinfo.com President Steven Filippi Vice President David Houseman 2nd Vice President Julie Kiley Secretary John Cullen Treasurer Julie Fuller Members Zena Clark, Logan Mott Chase Executive Director Jessica K. Willi
Ocean Avenue, Box 278, Block Island, RI 02807 Phone: (401) 466-2222 Fax: (401) 466-8804 www.blockislandtimes.com Publisher Michael Schroeder Editor Kari Curtis Writers Jessica K. Willi, Steven Filippi, Cameron Greenlee Photographer K. Curtis Contributing Photographers Lee Ann Gale, Myles Weissleder, Lori Meo, Kelley Mulvey, Kimberly Starr Dugan, Corrie Heinz, Madison Caruana, Tracy Finn, Eben Horton, Capt. Matt King, Sarah Murray Photography, Tamzen A Mazzur Production Chris Izzo © 2020 Block Island Tourism Council & The Block Island Times
Cover photo by Rich Tanguay www.blockislandinfo.com
Table Of Contents 3.
Block Island Beckons!
30. Good Eats
9.
You’re Closer Than You Think!
32. Bringing Your 4-Legged Friend
11. Block Island Basics
33. Nightlife
13. Endless Beaches
35. Favorite Times and Happenings
16. A Natural Beauty
36. Keep it Moving
20. Rest, Relaxation, Recreation
37. Our Island Community
21. Glass Float Project
38. Island Weddings
22. New England’s Boating and Fishing Paradise
40. Year Round Ferry Schedule
24. Shop Local
41. Seasonal High Speed Ferry Service
26. Living History
42. Island Accommodations
27. Keeping It Green
43. Island Dining
28. A Room With A View
44. Group Tours
About the Cover Photo: Our cover photo this year was taken by Rich Tanguay of Enfield, CT. “I enjoy spending time on Block Island with the Lang family, Jan and her children. The scenery from coast to coast is breathtaking. We love taking hikes all over the island, walking the many beaches, shopping and dining at a variety of shops and restaurants. The night sky is unbelievable. I love it out here.” Thank you to Rich Tanguay for this amazing shot of the Mohegan Bluffs. The Block Island Tourism Council is always on the lookout for photography of Block Island for these pages, so feel free to post on our Facebook Page (facebook.com/blockislandtourism) or email us at blockisland02807@gmail.com. We look forward to seeing the island through your eyes.
SPONSORS:
1661 Inn, Block Island Reservations, Atlantic Inn, Ballard Hall Real Estate, Beach Real Estate, Block Island Conservancy, Block Island Express, Block Island Fishworks, Interstate Navigation, Lila Delman Real Estate, New England Airlines, Newport Convention & Visitors Bureau, Poor People’s Pub, Tigerfish, Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, Payne’s Dock & Mahogany Shoals, Sullivan Real Estate, Kimberly’s, Block Island Oyster Bar & Grill , Heliblock, Aldo’s Restaurant & Aldo’s Bakery, Block Island Realty, Block Island Grocery, Seaside Market & New Harbor Boat Basin, Spring House Hotel
Close To Home, A World Away
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CASUAL PAN ASIAN DINING
KARAOKE + LIVE MUSIC + LATE NIGHT FOOD LUAUS + PRIVATE EVENTS + FULL SERVICE CATERING AVAILABLE
CALL FOR TAKE AWAY (401) 466-2300 126 CORN NECK ROAD
WWW.TIGERFISHBI.COM
BLOCK ISLAND
STAY COOL, WE HAVE
*air
cOnDitiOninG!*
ner - Lunch + Din Ly tiLL 10pm - FamiLy FrienD ays - S.I.N. tuesD ab brunch - sunDay reh Week - DJ's every
ptiOns GLuten Free O
1:00am every Day Open 11:30am ! Om the Ferry 5 minutes WaLk Fr
33 Ocean Avenue (401) 466-8533 8 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
You’re Closer Than You Think! More than 20 million people are within a four-hour drive of the ferries and airplanes that bring visitors to Block Island, and more than 10 million can reach a ferry or airplane in less than two hours.
Photo by Lori Meo
By Ferry
Block Island Ferry/Interstate Navigation provides year-round service from Point Judith, Rhode Island (304 Great Island Road, Narragansett, R.I.) to Old Harbor, Block Island. This is the only ferry that can take vehicles to the island, and reservations for them are required (the earlier in the year you can do this, the better). Passengers do not need reservations for the roughly onehour trip. You can find schedules and travel and reservation information for Interstate Navigation at (866) 783-7996 or blockislandferry.com. See schedule information on page 40. Block Island High-Speed Ferry/ Interstate Navigation runs a high-speed catamaran from mid-May through mid-October that gets you from Point Judith (304 Great Island Road, Narragansett, R.I.) to Old Harbor, Block Island, in 30 minutes. A second high-speed catamaran
www.blockislandinfo.com
runs daily from Fall River, Massachusetts, to Newport, Rhode Island, and on to Block Island. For schedules and more information call (866) 783-7996 or visit blockislandferry.com. See schedule information on page 40 and page 41. Block Island Express gets you to Old Harbor in just over one hour on a high-speed catamaran from a terminal in New London,C.T. (2 Ferry St., New London, C.T.) that’s right next to the Amtrak train station. It runs May through September. Block Island Express also offers connections to Block Island from Orient Point, Long Island, via its Cross Sound Ferry service. The two services have matched-up schedules making it convenient and quick to take the fast ferry from Orient Point to New London and connect to the ferry to B.I., all in 2 hours and 45 minutes, including layover. Schedules and connection infor-
mation for Block Island Express are at (860) 444-4624 or goblockisland.com. See schedule information on page 41. Montauk Ferry runs between the tip of Long Island, New York (462 West Lake Drive, Montauk, N.Y. ), and Block Island during the summer. The trip takes just under two hours. Schedules and information at (631) 668-5700 or at vikingfleet.com. See schedule information on page 41.
By Private Boat
Dock your own boat at one of four full-service marinas, rent a town mooring, or anchor in either Old Harbor or New Harbor. For more information on marinas, moorings, and anchorage, visit blockislandinfo.com, or see marina and harbor information on page 41.
By Commuter Plane
New England Airlines has provided daily scheduled air service to Block Island from Westerly, Rhode Island, since 1970. The airport (56 Airport Road, Westerly, R.I.) is just off Interstate 95 and is an easy drive or train ride from anywhere in the northeast. (Amtrak serves Westerly with daily trains between Washington/ New York and Boston.) Flight time is 12 minutes. Parking is free. Find schedules and information at (800) 243-2460 or at blockislandsairline.com. See schedule information on page 41.
By Private Plane
Block Island State Airport welcomes private planes on its one-lane runway. There is no control tower, but pilots should announce themselves on frequency 123.00. For more information visit blockislandstateairportri.com or call airport manager at (401) 466-5511.
Close To Home, A World Away
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OCEAN AVE. • 466-2949
• Fresh produce • Groceries • • Deli • Newspapers and Sundries •
Wide selection of beer, wine and liquor The best deli sandwiches on the island and a butcher shop where you can pick up a steak or some ribs to throw on the grill. Fresh local seafood is always in stock.
ATM INE!
MACH
ATM INE!
Deli and Convenience Store
MACH
Water Street • 466-5876
Breakfast-to-Go
Boat BaSIn nd
p Store ShI
BloCk ISla
Wide selection of deli sandwiches • Breakfast to go • Snacks Groceries • Health and beauty aides • T-shirts and Souvenirs
Coffee • Tea • Juice • Donuts • Bagels Muffins And more!
Sandwiches
We offer a selection of Pre-made Sandwiches
Snacks
We also offer a wide variety of snacks from chips ‘n dips to cheese ‘n crackers, fresh fruit, yogurts, and beyond!
Cheers!
And you can order liquor, wine and beer for late afternoon delivery right here, to the store
Block Island Boat Basin Ship Store New Harbor • 466-5189
ATM INE!
MACH
We also have T-shirts, rain gear, boat gear, fishing gear, and all kinds of other stuff! 10 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
Block Island Basics The Facts 1661 The year Block Island was founded. 1672 The year the Town of New Shoreham was incorporated. Area 7 miles long and 3 miles wide, Block Island is shaped like a pork chop, and covers 6,000 acres. Location 12 miles off the southern coast of Rhode Island. Population 900 year round; as many as 20,000 in summer. Ponds Legend has it there are 365 freshwater ponds, one for every day of the year. Stone walls 300 to 400 miles of man-made stone walls. Nature Trails 28 miles of trails. Open Space More than 47 percent of the island is preserved open space. Beaches 17 miles worth, all free, all gorgeous. Education One K-12 school with 133 students.
Getting Around
Harbor, and taxis regularly wait for customers at New Harbor and the airport. Most offer island tours as well. By Car Depending on your itinerary, you may or may not require a vehicle while here. In the busy summer months, keeping the number of cars on-island to a minimum is encouraged. Parking is limited in town and at beaches — there is no overnight parking and not all accommodations offer guest parking.
Keep Block Island Beautiful • Block Island has a carry-in/ carry-out policy for trash on our beaches (no trash cans available on most beaches), and encourages awareness of our impact on our natural resources. • Block Island has committed to reducing the use of plastic by banning single use plastic bags and balloons, please do not bring these items to the island with you. • Water-bottle filling stations
are located at the Solviken property on Corn Neck Road, at the Block Island Conservancy on Weldon’s Way, and at Nicholas Ball Park in Old Harbor near the Post Office building. • Please keep off the dunes. It is now a law to stay off of the dunes of Block Island, punishable by a fine.
Know before you go • Dogs are welcome on beaches and trails, but must be leashed at all times. • Take caution on the bluffs: stay away from the edges, and do not climb up or down them. • Rules of the road: Walk Left, Bike Right. It’s the law. • Helmets, eye protection, and closed toe shoes are required for moped drivers and passengers.
More info at: www.blockislandinfo.com or in person at the Visitor’s Center in the ferry parking lot; call (800) 383-BIRI (2474) or (401) 466-BIRI (2474).
Photo by Myles Weissleder
On Foot The sneaker express is an easy way to enjoy the shops, restaurants and hotels in Old Harbor. It’s a 15-minute
walk from the ferry to the main beach. Be sure to try the Block Island Old Harbor Walking Tour — maps available at the Visitor’s Center. On Bikes Bicycles are an affordable and enjoyable way to explore the island. Rental stands offer bikes to fit the needs of the entire family or bring your own over on the ferry. Don’t miss the Self-Guided Bike Tour. Rhode Island requires that any person under the age of 16 riding a bicycle, as an operator or passenger, must wear a protective bicycle helmet. On Mopeds Mopeds can be rented around the island, and can accommodate one or two people. Mopeds may be driven on all paved island roads, but are not allowed on dirt roads. The minimum age for renting a moped is 18. If you wish to rent a moped you must present a valid driver’s license. By law, helmets and eye protection must be worn. By Taxi Taxi service is available island-wide. A taxi stand is located by the ferry docks in Old
www.blockislandinfo.com
Close To Home, A World Away
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HELIBLOCK
WESTERLY & BLOCK ISLAND HELICOPTER TOURS
BOOK NOW: HELIBLOCK.COM
401-859-1001
E FReEsy Va!n
rt ble Cou vaila A
PRIVATE CHARTERS
|
INSTRUCTION
|
TOURS
|
PHOTOGRPHY
Block Island Oyster Bar & Grill 79 West Side Road at Champlin’s Marina (Pool Side)
Lunch and Dinner blockislandoysterbarandgrill.com
401-466-2110
Farm to Table menu items Fresh, local seafood #1 on Gluten Friendly r TripAdviso Open Nightly • 238 Ocean Avenue 401-466-8600 www.kimberlysblockisland.com
12 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
Endless Beaches 17 miles of sandy fun and peaceful stretches of paradise 1 Cow Cove at Settlers’ Rock
2 Mansion Beach
3 Scotch Beach
4 Fred Benson Town Beach
5 Baby Beach
www.blockislandinfo.com
Close To Home, A World Away
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6
10
Surf Beach
Vaill Beach
9
7 Ballard’s Beach
Mohegan Bluffs
11 The Bluffs at Black Rock
8
12
Ocean View Beach
Dinghy Beach
Abby Hester, Grade 7 at the Block Island School
Abby Hester
Block Island is, and always has been such a wonderful place to be. Our history, architecture and natural beauty offer so much to the residents here, and all who come to visit. We hope all who come to visit have a wonderful time 14 Close To Home, A World Away
and can experience all of the wonderful things that Block island has to offer. Block Island is not like most places you see. It’s not made up of the same big buildings and smog that you see everywhere nowadays. It has the same buildings from years ago, with great architecture and history behind them. Everything has years of great history and amazing stories that the older folk on the island are always happy to tell. With stories ranging from fishing to family, Block Island has so much wonderful history behind it. Although the architecture may be a bit older, there are still plenty of new experiences you can have on the island — from the animal farm to the sandy beaches and high waves — there is always something to do. The island is filled with amazing activities that the island folk have been putting together for years. Even in a single day, you can experience so many things that Block Island has to offer. One example is the Farmers Market
My Block Island — hosted every Wednesday and Saturday in the summer — where locals sell everything from scones to beautiful jewelry. We also have many different beaches that you can visit and restaurants that you can try. The buildings and the people are not all Block Island has to offer. There is a lot of natural beauty on the island, as well. From the bluffs to the beaches to the various Greenway Trails, there is so much nature to experience, with nothing asked in return but to help keep it clean. In order to sustain all of the natural beauty we try to keep as much trash as we can away from them. The one-ofa-kind sunsets that you can see from any part of Block Island are also a treat. They range in so many different colors and are always beautiful! As you can see, Block Island is a one of a kind place and a one of a kind experience that everyone should have. We hope that you have a wonderful experience on our beautiful Block Island. www.blockislandinfo.com
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Coast Guard Beach
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Andy’s Way
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17a
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17b
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17c
14 West Beach
Block Island Beaches 1. Cow Cove is near Settlers’ Rock. Although the shoreline is rocky, it offers some of the best coastal views and also sports the historic North Light. This is not a place for swimming because of a strong riptide. Be careful where you walk too: the beach is a nesting area for many rare birds. 2. Mansion Beach lies at the end of a dirt road with the same name. The island’s most stately mansion once sat here until fire destroyed the house. It was never rebuilt. However, the beach fits the name by being one of the island’s grandest. Mansion marks the north end of what’s known as Crescent Beach. 3. Scotch Beach is a quarter mile north of Fred Benson Town Beach. Scotch is a sandbox for kids and the place boaters end up when they cross Corn Neck Road from Dinghy Beach. A small parking lot sits between the road and the dunes. 4. Fred Benson Town Beach is home to Block Island’s fully equipped bathhouse. In addition to showers, lockers, food, and rental items, the beach is staffed with lifeguards in the summer months. 5. Baby Beach is a well-sheltered beachfront toward the south end of what’s known as Crescent Beach (Mansion marks the north end), where children can easily play in the shallow waters. 6. Surf Beach, named for The Surf Hotel above it, is an ideal place to snorkel and check out the abundant sea life, www.blockislandinfo.com
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Charlestown Beach
such as small crabs and starfish, and to hunt for shells and sand dollars. Surf Beach marks the south end of what’s known as Crescent Beach. 7. Ballard’s Beach is a popular beach for sunbathing and swimming and is located at Ballard’s Resort in Old Harbor, close to the ferry landing. Ballard’s Beach Resort offers food and drink service, chair and umbrella rental, tiki bars, volleyball courts and daily live music. 8. Ocean View Beach is located on the south side of the Old Harbor breakwater, adjacent to Ballard’s Resort. A right-of-way next to the Resort gets you to this public beach that is popular for sunbathing and swimming. 9. Mohegan Bluffs beachfront is found at the bottom of a steep set of stairs, 141 steps to be exact. The payoff is a secluded and spectacularly beautiful, if rocky, place to swim and surf. 10. Vaill Beach is a large beach at the bottom of a hollow. The path to it is located at the bend in Snake Hole Road. The surf here is rough and rocks line the shallows, so swimmers should exercise caution. 11. Black Rock boasts expanses of sand and a series of coves at the base of a cliff. Swimming is difficult because of the large number of rocks, but it’s a perfect place for an oceanside hike. The area takes its name from a large, dark rock that rests offshore in about 15 feet of water and has spelled the end for many ships. Located a pace off the main road, it’s best to walk or bike to get there.
12. Dinghy Beach, also known as Mosquito Beach, is located just across the road from Scotch Beach, providing a place for boaters in New Harbor to tie up their rafts and dinghies. There are majestic views of Great Salt Pond, making it a good backdrop for photos. 13. Andy’s Way is the island’s premiere clamming spot. Standing at the end of a dirt road that bears the same name, it’s a good place to take a stroll. Just north is Beane Point, U.S. Fish and Wildlife property that is home to many rare birds. 14. West Beach is narrow, but it’s lightly trafficked and has gentle surf and stupendous views of the North Light. 15. Coast Guard Beach is at the end of Champlin Road and derives its name from the decommissioned Coast Guard station there. Don’t swim here, but it’s a good place for clamming and fishing. 16. Charlestown Beach is popular with fishermen because it has a long jetty at its end. Typically uncrowded, it’s a nice spot to watch the boats come into New Harbor. 17. Grace’s, Dorry’s, and Cooneymus Coves are secluded beaches on the west side of the island. Perfect for hikers and those looking for an out-ofthe-way spot to catch a sunset.
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A Natural Beauty Twenty-eight miles of walking trails, acres of open space, many of the most beautiful beaches on the eastern seaboard, spectacular havens for fish and 1
wildlife — it’s no wonder Block Island was named one of the last great places in the western hemisphere by The Nature Conservancy. More than
Clay Head Nature Trail
47 percent of the island is preserved, and walking is an excellent way to take in the rolling hills, lush farmland, and stunning vistas. Look for seals perched on beach rocks and peregrine falcons and red-tailed hawks in the sky. Ring-necked pheasants and American woodcocks can be found among the abundant wildflowers. Block Island is renowned for its beauty and commitment to preservation. Once you visit, you’ll understand why.
2 Rodman’s Hollow
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Photo by Lee Ann Gale
North Light
3 Mohegan Bluffs
16 Close To Home, A World Away
3 Southeast Lighthouse.
4 1661 Farm
www.blockislandinfo.com
www.blockislandinfo.com
Close To Home, A World Away
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5 Ocean View Pavilion
6
Photo by K. Curtis
Walking the trails is amazing.
10 Block Island Maritime Institute (BIMI)
18 Close To Home, A World Away
7 Conservancy Center
9 Bike Tour
8 Ponds & Inlets
12 Glass Float
www.blockislandinfo.com
Don’t Miss 1. Clay Head Nature Trail, also known as The Maze, offers walkers unparalleled views along the northeastern shore of the island. Off Corn Neck Road, its paths meander along the bluffs before ending at Settlers’ Rock. 2. Rodman’s Hollow is a wild and beautiful cleft in the rolling terrain left over from a melting glacier. Hawks and deer are among the wildlife that populates the hollow. Its trails lead to Black Rock. 3. Both lighthouses on the island are open to visitors. Southeast Lighthouse, east of Mohegan Bluffs, provides a magnificent coastal view. On clear days it’s even possible to glimpse Montauk, New York, some 20 miles away. At the end of Corn Neck Road, a walk down the beach from Settlers’ Rock brings you to the beautiful North Light. 4. 1661 Inn Farm & Gardens offers a diverse collection of exotic and domestic animals maintained by the Draper family which owns and operates The 1661 Inn. Visitors to the farm can view and pet llamas, emus, sheep, donkeys, goats and more. There are even kangaroos, lemurs, and a zedonk (zebra/donkey).
www.blockislandinfo.com
5. Ocean View Pavilion is a comfortable sitting area near Old Harbor that offers stunning ocean vistas. Maintained by the Ocean View Foundation, the area marks the spot where the magnificent Ocean View Hotel once stood. The Foundation runs environmental education programs year-round. 6. Walking Trails crisscross the entire island. The Greenway is a web of trails that connects miles of natural habitat and provides memorable hikes for visitors. 7. An Education Center on Weldon’s Way, run by Block Island Conservancy, and an office on High Street housing The Nature Conservancy, provide a wealth of information about the island’s wildlife and plants, and the island’s ongoing efforts to preserve open spaces. Stop by to pick up trail maps or bird checklists and find out about nature walks and other free programs. 8. Explore the island Ponds and Inlets by renting a kayak or paddleboard (available at both harbors).
9. There’s no better way to see B.I. than by bicycle. The Block Island Tourism Council created a 7.5-mile Video Bike Tour. The loop begins and ends at the Tourist Center off Water Street in Old Harbor. Just scan the QR codes on signs along the route to get the video tour. It includes nine stops along major sights at the southern end of the island, plus an option to add another 8.5 miles of island beauty. Don’t forget a helmet! 10. BIMI (Block Island Maritime Institute) runs many marine exploration programs from its “offices” in New Harbor (near Dead Eye Dick’s restaurant), which is where you’ll find their popular touch tank and squid dissection workshops. 11. Ball O’Brien Park has a playground with swings, a skate park, tennis courts, a basketball court, and a picnic pavilion with charcoal grills. There is also a quarter mile long trail that circles the park and another that leads to the Great Salt Pond. 12. The Glass Float Project has become one of the island’s most popular activities in recent years. Find these orange-sized orbs along beaches and trails, then register your find at www. blockislandinfo.com/glass-float-project.
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Rest, Relaxation, Recreation WHETHER YOU SURF, SAIL, KAYAK, snorkel, or fish, Block Island offers plenty of ocean and pond adventures. The pounding surf and temperate waters are perfect for surfing, paddleboarding, windsurfing, kiteboarding, parasailing, scuba diving, sea kayaking, and banana boating, and there are a number of local businesses that rent equipment and offer lessons and summer camps. There’s offshore adventure in the form of sailing or fishing charters. Inland pursuits include biking, hiking, and all manner of exercise classes, such as yoga, spin class, barre and more. Or you can hit the spa. Or simply hit the hammock! For more information, visit the Block Island Tourism Council’s web site at www. Off to surf camp.
20 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
Photo by K. Curtis
blockislandinfo.com.
Glass Float Project Walking along the beach and you spot something shining in the sunlight. Go ahead and check it out, it might just be a hidden treasure planted for you to find! Among the sand, rocks, and bits of sea glass, you may be one of the lucky few who discover a Glass Float. Created in 2012 by Eben Horton,
The Glass Float Project gives visitors to the island an opportunity to slow down, to look, take in, and absorb Block Island’s natural beauty. Hundreds of floats are placed around the island during the year. Most of them are clear, but some are colored and one is gold, and are randomly hidden across the island. Some are hidden
Photo by Tracy Finn
Eben Horton, Glass Float Project
Eben Horton
I first came to Block Island when I was eight years old on my grandparent’s sailboat. To spend a week on a boat with no shower or refrigeration was the price they were willing to pay to visit such a beautiful island. I, being stuck with them and always on foot, grew to appreciate the areas around New Harbor, with an occasional long walk to Old Harbor, which often ended in an ice cream reward. Then, as a young teenager, my parwww.blockislandinfo.com
along the beaches above the high tide line, and some are carefully placed along the island’s miles of Greenway Trails. The rules are simple... If you find one, keep it! If you find another, please leave it so that someone else can find it. For additional information and to register your float, visit blockislandinfo.com.
Photo by Eben Horton
My Block Island ents and I would live on our sailboat all summer long, frequently spending time at Block Island. By this time I knew the island fairly well, and loved riding my bicycle around. My memories of the island then, pair well with what I see today, thanks to the lengths that the island has gone to preserve its open spaces. Being stuck on a boat with family did have its drawbacks. For example, much of the island remained a mystery to me until I was an adult with a bad fishing habit. Just when I thought I knew every inch of the island, I started to discover more and more places. Quite surprised with all of my little discoveries, I started dreaming of creating an art project that would share all of these special nooks and crannies of the island that not even some of the locals knew about. I knew there was a need on the island for a healthy activity for those people who like to stay active and have a purpose while on vacation and remembered the time when I was just starting to make glass in the early 1990’s. Myself and a friend hid a backpack full of slightly flawed paperweights along the beaches
of mainland Rhode Island for fun. I never heard about anyone finding any of the glass, but I am sure it was all found and brought immense surprise and joy to the people who were lucky enough to find them. After securing grant funding and the blessings of the people of Block Island in 2011, I created the Glass Float Project. It is an interactive public art project where people are encouraged to get out and explore the island. We (myself, my wife Jen and my assistants who work for me at my glass studio) make around 550 glass fishing floats and hide them all over the island. If you find one, you can keep it. If you find another one we ask that you leave it for another person to find, or have fun re-hiding it on the island. This project has been a way for me to re-discover areas of block island that I loved as a child and most importantly has helped me discover even more areas I had never known had existed. Block Island truly is one of the country’s greatest conserved places and I could not be happier to provide a fun way for people to get out and explore the island. Close To Home, A World Away
21
New England’s Boating and Fishing Paradise BOATERS FROM AROUND THE
bonito, mahi-mahi, shark, and more.
island. Just don’t forget to stop by the
WORLD find harbor in more than
The island hosts premiere races and
island’s two tackle shops for bait or
50 acres of anchorage and more than
fishing tournaments including the
suggestions about where the action
100 public moorings.
Tri-State Canyon Shoot-out Fishing
is. Don’t forget about the clam flats,
No boat? No problem.
Tournament and the Storm Trysail
either!
Rental boats and a charter fishing
sailboat races.
fleet await to take visitors out on the
Why not take to the miles of sandy
For mooring, anchorage, licensing and docking information, visit the
beaches and rocky shoreline for fly
Block Island Tourism Council’s web
Sound, and, of course, the Atlantic
fishing and surf-casting — shore ac-
site at blockislandinfo.com or call the
Ocean for striped bass, bluefish, tuna,
cess is unrestricted around the entire
Harbors Department at (401)466-3204.
Photo by K. Curtis
Great Salt Pond, the Block Island
22 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
Block Island Fishworks
Tri State Canyon Shoot-out.
Catching fish with Hula Charters. Photo by Capt. Matt King
Pond & Beyond Kayak . Photo by Corrie Heinz
Twin Maples
Capt. Matt King, Hula Charters
Capt. Matt King
Growing up in Narragansett, R.I., Block Island was a fixture on the southern horizon, and also in plain site of some of the better surf breaks. In my early school years I had gone on a few field trips with science class to the Bluffs, Rodman's Hollow, and Clay Head. In the late 80s, when surfing became an obsession for me, my buddies and I started exploring the coastline of Block Island for spots we could paddle out. Many times when we thought the conditions were right, a few of us would venture away from our backyard breaks, board the ferry, and search for an uncrowded line-up. Sometimes we found it, and somewww.blockislandinfo.com
My Block Island times not. It was my first taste of surf travel. Only 13 miles away, back then the island felt like it was 13 thousand miles away. It was the summer of the millennium when I decided to take a break from Hawaii, and took a job as chef at Eli’s restaurant. I had spent nearly a decade on Oahu pursuing a career in the culinary arts, and up until that point, had never entertained the idea of relocating back to Rhode Island. I returned to the island for a second year to work during the summer season, and then again in 2002 — only this time I did not return to Hawaii, and I spent my first full year on Block Island. I spent most of the fall climbing around the rocky shoreline, night and day, throwing needlefish with my 10 foot surf caster. There was a small core group of guys that were doing the same, and we just got after it every night. As fall transitioned into winter, the game changed to hunting — and back then it was hunters’ paradise. Tripled-up with good surf during the colder months, I realized that Block Island was the package I didn't know I was looking for. I started Hula Charters the following summer in 2003, and turned one of my lifelong passions of fishing into a business — professional surfer had
never become an option. Block Island has always been on the map as the place to be when it comes to striped bass fishing. Shoreline fishermen, casting in the surf, and boat fishermen fishing the rips and reefs, have landed some of the largest on record. I am grateful to call this island home, and spend most days of the season on the waters around Block Island. Several years into my transition from the Pacific Ocean back to the Atlantic, I eventually went on to own and open a pair of cafés on the island. The seasonal components of being a Block Island business owner had some unique challenges in some aspects, but in trade, has afforded me the freedom to travel during the wintertime. When I am away, it offers a time to reflect and give perspective of how unique and special my Block Island is. For being a mere 13 miles from the mainland, the island is a refreshing distance away from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding areas. There is a sense of pride and community that is the foundation of what keeps this place special, and has managed to keep things relatively slow. Of the many places I've been fortunate to see and visit, I am grateful that I can earn a living here, and call this playground home. Close To Home, A World Away
23
Twin Maples
Bonni & Clyde
Diamondblue Surf Shop
Glass Onion
My Oyster
Shop Local DO A LITTLE CREDIT CARD damage in some of the island’s fine clothing shops; pick up some new sunglasses,
much more. Block Island’s natural beauty, its rolling hills, vivid skyline,
hats or bathing suits for long days at the beach; or browse
clifftop vistas, and fog-cloaked hollows have inspired scores
for Block Island inspired goods to take home — from home
of poets, painters, potters, musicians, and photographers.
décor to unique island-shaped jewelry.
Its solitude and grandeur have also created a vibrant
Only steps away from the ferry dock in Old Harbor is
community where artists can create in a place that, in
the heart of Block Island’s historic downtown. Most island
the off seasons, is removed from the hustle and bustle of
stores are mom and pop businesses and the range of items
ordinary life and, in summer, is filled with visitors seeking to
offered is truly astounding. Hand-painted wooden signs of
view and buy their work. From Marilyn Bogdanffy’s painted
island locations, and locally famous T-shirts vie for space
murals at the island’s State Airport, to Malcolm Greenaway’s
with designer handbags and fashionable resort wear. Forget
landscape photography, Block Island art has become world-
something? Not a problem. There are a host of choices to
renowned.
hook you up with everything from fishing and surfing gear to sunscreen and paperback books. In addition to the shopping in town, there is a Farmers
Local artists and craftsmen show at the many galleries that dot the downtown, during the Arts and Crafts Guild Fairs hosted on the Historical Society lawn a few times each
Market where island artists, chefs, and farmers gather each
season, and at the twice-weekly Farmers Market. Be sure to
Wednesday and Saturday morning to sell their wares. It’s
pencil in the Holiday Shopping Stroll for late fall: During
a great way to pick up locally grown produce, home-baked
the Thanksgiving weekend, island stores open their doors
goodies, locally made preserves, handcrafted jewelry, and
and offer dynamite discounts just in time for the holidays.
24 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
Block Island Trading Company
Spring Street Gallery
Photo by K.Curtis
Thea Monje, owner Beachcomber
Thea Monje
There are many beautiful places in the world, but there is only one Block Island. Having spent my entire life here, I can say with certainty that anyone who crosses paths with this island is lucky, and, perhaps, destined to be here—if even for just one summer, one week, one day. In 2015, I graduated from the Block Island School in a class of twelve stu-
Odd Fellow’s Hall shops
My Block Island dents. I think all my peers would agree with me in saying that growing up here is an experience unlike any other. Block Island is a place of mystic familiarity. In the off-season, I’ve noticed the same deer and pheasant appear in the backyard, together, day after day. Friends are seemingly everywhere, and the ritual wave of a hand over the edge of a steering wheel occurs with each passing vehicle. In the thick of the summer, streets dense with unknown visitors are disrupted by familiar faces; they appear in the restaurants, in the driver’s seats of passing taxis, sitting in nearby beach chairs. My Block Island is the sort of place where one doesn’t have to make plans to meet friends for breakfast at Persephone’s, because it’s simply an unspoken fact that there will always be friends having breakfast at Persephone’s. It was impossible to find these kinds of circumstances when I went away to college,
and when I brought the friends I’d made at Brown back to the island, they agreed that Block Island was unlike any other place. Though it’s only two hours outside of Providence, the island is a world away, stuck in time, and mesmerizing to all who visit. Throughout my life, the island community has always created and encouraged new learning opportunities for its residents and visitors, even when the beautiful landscape remains the same. For example, last year, my mother and I took over the Beachcomber, a longstanding store on Dodge Street. Running the store with her has taught me about island business and tourism from an entirely new perspective—there is always something to learn here. My Block Island is filled with new opportunities, and one thing has always rung true, day after day: we are all very, very lucky to be here. Spring Street Gallery
www.blockislandinfo.com
Close To Home, A World Away
25
The Block Island Historical Society’s Island Cemetery Tour
Living History BLOCK ISLAND’S HISTORY is a rich one, encompassing
mentioning shipwrecks. While some have become the stuff
Native American tribes, Revolutionary War heroes, legend-
of legend, others remain accessible for sport divers. Among
ary shipwrecks, and its emergence in the late 1800s as one of
the legendary is the Princess Augusta, which inspired John
New England’s premiere summer attractions.
Greenleaf Whittier’s 1867 poem “The Palatine.”
Learn more about the island’s history by visiting the His-
Block Island’s rough seas and rocky coastlines would
torical Society Museum and gift shop downtown. A white
certainly have claimed more ships were it not for two
mansard-roofed building, the Historical Society houses an
lighthouses. The North and Southeast Lighthouses have
extensive collection of furniture, textiles, quilts, oral histo-
achieved iconic status, revered for their historic significance
ries, fishing gear, tools, and Native American artifacts. Then
and as symbols of the community spirit that has allowed
head to Isaac’s Corner, at the intersection of Center Road,
them to be restored and preserved.
Lakeside Drive, and Cooneymus Roads. Named for the
The Southeast Lighthouse made national headlines in
island’s last full-blooded Native American, who died in 1886,
the early 1990s when, after years of erosion, it found itself
it is near the Indian burial ground and the stone monument
just 50 feet from the cliff’s edge. Islanders banded together
in honor of the Manissean Indians.
to save the beloved structure, raising nearly $2 million in
On that same corner, overlooking Fresh Pond, sits the gambrel-roofed cottage of composer and poet Arthur Penn,
federal and private grants, and donations to move the National Historic Landmark 245 feet back from the bluff.
who lived there with his wife Nell in the 1920s. His song
You’ll want to see the North Light, too, by hiking past
“Smilin’ Through” is named for his Block Island home.
Settlers’ Rock. The lantern on that lighthouse was recently
No history of Block Island would be complete without 26 Close To Home, A World Away
restored and re-lit, and its small museum renovated. www.blockislandinfo.com
Keeping it Green The waves thumping on the pebbly shores
of our music and arts festival, ConserFest sought
of the Bluffs, the gulls singing from their dune
to bring folks together under the banner of con-
perches, the swoosh of wind through the crooked
servation stewardship. As of 2020, the festival is
shad groves: these sounds are the orchestra of is-
entering its’ 12th consecutive year. Over 200 mu-
land life. I am blessed to call home a place that is
sicians have performed at the festival over the
so loved by its residents and visitors alike for its
years. It has also been a fantastic opportunity for
natural beauty, and I have always been enchanted
local businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs to
by both the visual and the sonic aspects of this
come and showcase their work, products and ser-
island, known as “one of the last great places.”
vices that are in line with the festival’s mission.
Block Island is a torch-bearer in the conservation
Furthermore, each year, the festival strives to im-
world. It was established as such by the local con-
prove the organizing and running of the event,
servationists who in 1972 acquired Rodman’s Hol-
as we work towards making ConserFest environ-
low, and through the continued hard work of the
mentally impact-free. Funds raised from the fes-
local conservation organizations such as Block Is-
tival have contributed to major land acquisitions,
land Conservancy and The Nature Conservancy,
established an annual B.I. school scholarship,
among others. Block Island has so much to enjoy,
and supported the dune-grass initiative, amongst
in community life as well; the arts have become
many other things.
an important staple of our summer activities. So
Every day there is a new way to get involved
much is available, from the excellent galleries and
in protecting and celebrating our natural envi-
art shows to the farmer’s markets and fairs, from
ronment on our beautiful island — our flora and
the Block Island Music Festival to the handful of
fauna. It can be as simple as picking up litter off
superb nightclubs and music venues.
the ground, volunteering for one of the local con-
ConserFest was founded with these two im-
servation groups, riding your bike instead of driv-
portant elements of island life in mind. It began
ing a car, reducing the use of plastic by avoiding
with the idea of finding a new way to merge the
single use plastic bags and balloons, adopting re-
island’s commit-
usable shopping bags for all your local purchases
ment to conser-
— the list goes on. Making sure that the younger
vation
generations understand the importance of these
Photo by K. Curtis
ship
stewardwith
the
actions is paramount to what ConserFest works
c o m m u n i t y ’s
to achieve. One thing is for sure: if Block Island
love of the arts.
continues to be a small but mighty leader in the
The goal was to
modern conservation movement, we will be en-
engage all ages of
joying the sounds of the island orchestra for gen-
the local and vis-
erations to come.
iting communi-
#embraceyourplace #musiconamission
ty, with a strong
For more information on ConserFest, the conserva-
focus
tion movement on Block Island, and how to get in-
on
our
youngest gener-
volved, please visit: www.conserfest.org or
ations. Through
www.biconservancy.org
the
www.blockislandinfo.com
organizing
Cameron Greenlee.
Close To Home, A World Away
27
A Room with a View
1661 by Lee Ann Gale Atlantic Inn
For the most accurate availability on Block Island, book direct. On-line sites, like Expedia and TripAdvisor, often don’t have Block Island’s full inventory. Block Island has the largest
out advice about things to see and
collection of Victorian era hotels of any
do. For longer visits, Block Island has
vacation destination on the Eastern
a slew of rental properties and able
Seaboard. Among the architectural
real estate agents to help you find the
gems are the Atlantic Inn, the Spring
picturesque vacation home that’s just
House, Hotel Manisses, the National
right for you and yours. There is higher
Hotel, and the Block Island Beach
availability for accommodations and
Blue Dory by Lee Ann Gale
House, formerly the Surf Hotel. For the ferry reservations during the shoulder luxury traveler, new boutique hotels
seasons, the week after July 4, and in
and inns provide modern amenities.
the last week of August. For specific
The island is also famous for its quaint
accommodation information visit the
bed and breakfasts and guest houses.
Block Island Tourism Council’s web
You’ll find friendly and knowledgeable
site at blockislandinfo.com or see
proprietors who are eager to hand
accommodation listings on page 42. Champlin’s Marina
28 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
Avonlea photo by K. Curtis
Darius Inn by Allegra Anderson Photogrphy
www.blockislandinfo.com
Block Island Beach House
Spring House Hotel
Close To Home, A World Away
29
Southeast Light Delights
Atlantic Inn
Fried Clams by Myles Weisleder
McAloon’s
Old Harbor View take-out
The Oar
Tigerfish
Good Eats FROM FAMILY-FRIENDLY TO ROMANTIC fine dining,
roll and enjoy the
Block Island can satisfy your hunger at any of nearly 40 res-
spectacular ocean
taurants, pubs, and food trucks.
views. But Block
Seafood lovers will delight in the dizzying number of ways
Island offers more
Winfield’s
our local chefs prepare fresh catch. Many of the island’s most
than just seafood. Hungry for fish tacos, eggplant rollatini,
beloved seafood joints are less than a five-minute walk from
sushi, pad thai, freshly-made bagels, or a lemon-lime gelato?
the beach or ferry. Bite into one of our legendary fish sand-
Block Island has you covered. See page 43 for a list of dining
wiches, snack on clam cakes or mahi-mahi, feast on a lobster
options.
30 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
Finn’s Fish Market
Charlotte Hall, Senior at the Block Island School I have lived on Block Island since birth. I went to the beach at three days old. I am a typical island child. With just over 900 year round residents, 130 students in my entire K-12 school, and fourteen in my graduating class, my winters are spent with the same few friends I’ve had since preschool. I have known almost all fourteen of my classmates since I was born and it is safe to say we act more like siblings than classmates. Once the island goes into hibernation, we watch countless movies and read book after book. We take whoever’s car has the most gas and drive to the North Point or around the west side just talking and listening to music in hopes of passing time, and usually without passing another car. Although winters can be isolated, it has taught me to value close friends. During the off season, I don’t always appreciate the place I live, but once the busy season begins, there is no where else in the world I’d rather be. Like most island kids in the summer www.blockislandinfo.com
I have multiple jobs — at Los Gatitos at Yellow Kittens, and Diamondblue Surf Shop — working doubles, hoping for one day off a week. In spite of this lifestyle we somehow manage to spend days on the beach soaking up the sunshine for as long as possible. We live for summers, for seeing our seasonal friends, for summer freedom and for seemingly endless beach days. For as long as I can remember, the beach has felt like home. But, as I have gotten older I now spend less time on the beach and more time at work. Now, I live for Sundays, my day off. Every Sunday, I get to the beach early, stay late and go home tired and sun-burnt. Since I was young, my life has not been measured in years but instead measured in summers. As a community, Block Island has a unique bond. It is hard to describe but mirrors the words of Rachel Field’s poem, “If once you have slept on an island/You’ll never quite be the same.” My home defines community. We are
Los Gatitos at Yellow Kittens
My Block Island
Charlotte Hall
an authentic family. As I am getting ready to leave the island, I already miss it. This fall, I have to leave the only place I have ever called home. Similar to most island children, I know leaving home is going to be hard. But, I find comfort in knowing I can always come back to this one of a kind island I am lucky enough to call home. Close To Home, A World Away
31
Sookie. Photo by Tamzen A. Mazzur
Photo by Sarah Murray Photography
Carly and Remy. Photo by Corrie Heinz
Gus. Photo by Madison Caruana
Bringing Your 4-Legged Friend There are many accommodations and restaurants
are required. The Town of New Shoreham does have a
that are pet friendly, and allow both you and your pup
leash law that requires dogs to be leashed in public ar-
to enjoy Block Island. Dogs are allowed on the tradi-
eas, including beaches and the Greenway hiking trails,
tional and fast ferries from Point Judith, RI, New Lon-
which are great places for pet-friendly activities. Have a
don, CT and Montauk, NY — but must be on a leash
special event to attend? Dog sitters and grooming ser-
or in a carrier at all times. A flight over to the island
vices are available to keep your pet happy and looking
with your furry friend from Westerly, RI, will cost ex-
good. Block Island offers a great getaway that lets the
tra if your pet weighs over 25 pounds, and reservations
entire family come along.
you need this view.
Offering Exclusive Block Island Real Estate & Beautiful Vacation Rentals 401-466-5887 www.birealty.com 32 Close To Home, A World Away
Kate Atwater Butcher, Broker Emily Butcher , Julie Kiley, Connie Finn, Megan Hennessy, Licensees www.blockislandinfo.com
Mahogany Shoals
Captain Nicks
Nightlife AFTER A DAY OF SWIMMING, fishing, sailing or hiking, you need to relax — just not too much! A different island adventure awaits you after dark. Block Island bars and nightclubs are among the best in New England. You’ll find local brews, mudslides, and margarita madness to go with the live music that will
Yellow Kittens Tavern
Tigerfish
keep you dancing well into the night.
Payne’s Dock & Mahogany Shoals A Block Island Landmark
Mahogany Shoals
Welcome to Block Island
Inside/Outside/Upstairs Bar Live Entertainment
The Upstairs Room
Events Space; Rehearsal dinners, small weddings, birthday parties, meet and greet parties and more!
The Shop at Payne's Dock
Family Owned and Operated
Clothing, Block Island Gear, Beach Supplies, Unique Items
Meet New Friends and Have a Great Time! Family Friendly
Clif Payne
Sands Payne
"Clif and Sands here to help you tie up safe and secure every time!"
www.blockislandinfo.com
PaynesDock.com 401-864-3832 New Harbor, New Shoreham, RI “It doesn’t get any better than this!”
Close To Home, A World Away
33
Become a member and support BIC. Join online at biconservancy.org or stop in at the Education Center on Weldon’s Way. Thank you!
Save the date for the 3rd annual…
Visit the
BIC Education Center
on Weldonʼs Way!
• Pick up a summer walk schedule and learn about island events • View the conservation history display • Fill your reusable bottle at the water filling station • Shop for t-shirts, water bottles, trail maps, and more! Join us for a nature program — schedule can be found at natureblockisland.org Since 1972, the Block Island Conservancy has worked to protect open space and preserve our communityʼs access to the islandʼs natural places.
Sunday, August 16th at the
Solviken Nature Preserve
After all, Providence, RI was founded on the notion that you should be able to do what you want to do and think what you want to think. We take that to heart. Bring your family or travel solo. Indulge in delicious meals or bike through cityscapes and scenic vistas. Learn a new skill or loll lazily in a gondola watching the world glide by. Do all of it. Or do your own thing. We have so much to do, see, eat, play, create, watch — the combinations are endless. It’s up to you.
PICK YOUR PROVIDENCE 1.800.233.1636 34 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
Fourth of July Parade.
2019 Polar Plunge.
2019 Softball League Champs.
ConserFest. Photo by Kimberly Starr Dugan
Favorite Times and Happenings Block Island’s best kept secret may be the pleasure of its
Around the Block; art and music festivals throughout the
shoulder seasons. Spring and fall are quieter and perhaps
summer including the popular Blues on the Block concerts
even more gorgeous than summer!
and ConserFest; and fall classics like the Arts and Crafts
Sample island food during Restaurant Week June 7 to
Guild /Farmers Market Fair, as well as new favorites, such as
11 this year. Experience Block Island weekend (formerly A
the Glass Float Treasure Hunt, in which visitors and island-
Taste of Block Island), September 18 to 20, gives guests a
ers alike comb beaches and trails for hand-blown fishing-
chance to sample the island’s inns, restaurants, and activi-
float-style glass balls stamped with an island image.
ties at a deep discount. Popular annual celebrations include the Fourth of July,
Winter happenings include the Holiday Shopping Stroll over Thanksgiving weekend, the Polar Plunge on New Year’s
of course, but also races such as the Shad Bloom Run in
Day, and the Groundhog Day census. Find a full listing of
early May, the August triathlon, and September’s 15K Run
events in 2020 at blockislandinfo.com.
www.blockislandinfo.com
Close To Home, A World Away
35
Keep it Moving
Fitness-minded vacationers may be worried that their
exercise routines may go down the tubes while on Block Island. But vacationers need not fret — you may actually benefit from the change in pace and environment, which can provide new and entertaining ways of exercising. There are many traditional fitness options available on Block Island –like yoga and barre classes but there are also nontraditional ways to burn the calories off like pool aerobics, trampoline exercise classes, kayak tours and paddle boarding. A new craze you can find on Block Island at Elevation Studio is alpaca and goat yoga — a wildly trending class — you get to mingle with the animals at the 1661 Farm & Gardens. While you are over in New Harbor, located around the Block Island Maritime Institute Center, you can find multiple outfits for kayak and paddleboard rentals, and kayak tours. Early morning sunrise runs or sunset walks on the beach can provide that perfect vacation feel to your exercise routine. There are plenty of ways to ‘feel the burn” that don’t involve laying in the sun on Block Island. Paddle-boarding on the Great Salt Pond.
36 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
Block Island School Class of 2019
Our Island Community “Do you like living out here?” This is a question I get asked almost daily in the summer. The answer is always, and unequivocally, yes. The things that aren’t ideal I can count on one hand, for example, I miss going to Target on a whim. The things I love about living on Block Island are far too numerous to mention. Nature tops my list;
are a passionate people. What we all agree on, however,
the beaches are beautiful, the cliffs are dramatic and
is our love for this island. We all want what’s best for
the ocean is spectacular in every season. What you can’t
our home. I love talking about Block Island and I love
see as easily is the sense of community; Block Island
showing people Block Island, like a mom showing off
is a wonderful place to raise a family. With only about
her child’s accomplishments. If you visit, for an hour or a
1000 year-round residents we pretty much all know one
week, I’m confident you’ll understand why we love where
another. What makes the island special to me might be
we live. Come on out and let us show you our home.
different for another resident. In fact, there are many differing opinions about all sorts of things out here. These www.blockislandinfo.com
Jessica K. Willi Executive Director, Block Island Tourism Council Close To Home, A World Away
37
Amy and Ryan. Photo by Michael Benson Photography
Island Weddings It’s no secret anymore how much fun it is to have a wedding on Block Island. Every year more and more couples choose the island for a close-to-home, but worlds-away destination celebration. Let your wedding be the one that no one Anna and Parth. Photo by Gabe Aceves
will ever forget. Dazzle your friends with a reception at one of our grand Victorian hotels or let them stargaze during a lobster bake on the beach. The typical Block Island wedding is anything but that — it might be called romantic, storybook, one-of-a-kind or inventive — but never typical. The island is well-equipped to facilitate gatherings of all sizes in a variety of unique settings. Everything can be found right on the island, including: catering, florists, hair salons and spas, photography, music, and event rentals. The key to planning a Block Island wedding
Christina and Alberto. Photo by Boho Bliss Photography
is to know the ins and outs of throwing this type of event in a small place, only accessible by boat or plane. Many hotels and inns have built-in wedding services, and many are happy to assist with the details. We offer beautiful locations, fabulous food and so much island charm. Celebrate the most important day of your life in one of the world’s most beautiful places. “We’re getting married on Block Island.” Try saying it out loud. Sounds great, doesn’t it?
Natalie and Tom. Photo by Chris Ashton Photography
Felicia and Steven. Photo by Brad Smith Photography
38 Close To Home, A World Away
Helen and Rob. Photo by Price Burr Photography
Lauren and Kevin. Photo by Allegra Anderson Photography
www.blockislandinfo.com
Ariel and Brad. Photo by Trevor Holden Photography
Megan and Charlie. Photo by Jessica Haley Photgraphy
Brooke and Bill. Photo by Polar Square Photography
Natalie and Tom. Photo by Chris Ashton Photography
Krissy and Chad. Photo by Thea Monje
www.blockislandinfo.com
Close To Home, A World Away
39
Year-Round Ferry Service Vehicles • Passengers • Bikes
2020 TRADITIONAL FERRY: PT. JUDITH TO BLOCK ISLAND Schedule subject to change without notice • Vehicle reservations required • Approximate sailing time is 55 minutes MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
DEPART
Pt Judith Block Island
PJ
BI
PJ
BI
PJ
BI
PJ
BI
PJ
BI
PJ
BI
MAR 16 APR 9
6:30a,11a, 8:15a,2:30p, 4:45p 6:30p
10a, 2:15p
12:30p, 4p
10a, 2:15p
12:30p, 4p
6:30a,11a, 4:45p
8:15a, 2:30p, 6:30p
9a,1p, 6p
10:45a, 4p
11a, 4p
8:15a, 2p, 5:30p
11a, 4p
1p, 5:30p
APR 10 APR 26
6:30a, 11a, 4:45p
10a, 2:15p
12:30p, 4p
10a, 2:15p
12:30p, 4p
6:30a, 11a, 4:45p
9a, 1p, 6p
10:45a, 4p, 7:30p
8a, 11a, 4p
9:30a, 2p, 5:30p
11a, 4p
1p, 5:30p
APR 27 MAY 17
9a,11a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 3p, 5p
8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 3p, 5p
8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 3p, 5p
8:15a, 2:30p, 6:30p 8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 3p, 7p
8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 2p, 5p
8:15a, 11a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 3p, 5p
8:15a, 11a, 3p, 5p
MAY 18 JUN 19
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a,1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
JUN 20 AUG 30
8a, 9:30a, 8:15a, 10a, 10:30a, 11:30a, 11:45a, 12:45p, 3p, 1:30p, 3p, 4p, 5:15p, 4:45p, 5:45p, 6:45p, 7:45p 7p
8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 1:30p, 3p, 5:45p, 7p
8:15a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 4p, 5:15p, 7:45p
8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 1:30p, 3p, 5:45p, 7p
8:15a 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 4p, 5:15p, 7:45p
8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 1:30p, 3p, 5:45p, 7p
8:15a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 4p, 5:15p, 7:45p
8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 1:30p, 3p, 4:45p, 5:45p, 7p
8:15a, 10a, 8a, 9:30a, 8:15a, 10a, 11:30a, 10:30a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 11:45a, 12:45p, 3p, 4p, 5:15p, 1:30p, 4:15p, 5p, 6:15p, 6:45p, 6p, 7p, 8p 8p, 9p 7:45p
8:15a, 2:30p, 6:30p 8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p
8a, 9:30a, 8:15a, 10a, 11:30a, 10:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 11:45a, 1:30p,4:15p, 5p, 6:15p, 8p, 9p 6p, 7p, 8p
Holiday August 10 DEPARTS PJ: 8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 1:30p, 4:15p, 6p, 7p, 8p | DEPARTS BI: 8:15a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 5p, 6:15p, 8p, 9p AUG 31 SEP 4
SEP 5 SEP 7
8:30a, 10:30a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:30a, 10:30a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:30a, 10:30a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
LABOR DAY 8:15a, 8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 10a, 11:30a, 11:45a, 12:45p, 3p, 1:30p,3:30p, 4p, 5:30p, 7p, 8p 5p, 6p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:30a, 10:30a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:30a, 10:30a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p 8a, 9:30a, 8:15a, 10a, 8a, 9:30a, 8:15a, 10a, 11:30a, 10:30a, 10:30a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 11:45a, 11:45a, 12:45p, 3p, 1:30p, 3:30p, 4p, 5:30p, 1:30p, 3:30p, 4p, 5:30p, 7p, 8p 5p, 6p, 7p 5p, 6p, 7p 7p, 8p
LABOR DAY WEEKEND SCHEDULE
SEP 8 SEP 20
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a,1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
SEP 21 OCT 9
9a, 11a, 3p, 5p
8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 3p, 5p
8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 3p, 5p,
8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 3p, 5p
8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 2p, 5:15p
8:15a, 11a, 3p, 5:45p
9a, 11a, 2p, 5:15p
8:15a, 11a, 3p, 5:45p
OCT 10 OCT 12
COLUMBUS DAY 8:15a,11a, 9a, 11a, 1p 1p, 3p, 3p, 5p, 7p 5p, 7p
OCT 13 OCT 18
COLUMBUS DAY WEEKEND SCHEDULE
9a, 11a, 3p, 5p,
8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 3p, 5p,
8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 3p, 5p
8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p
OCT19 NOV 22
6:30a, 11a, 8:15a, 4:45p 2:30p, 6:30p
10a, 2:15p
12:30p, 4p
10a, 2:15p
12:30p, 4p
NOV 23 NOV 29
6:30a, 11a, 8:15a, 2:30p, 4:45p 6:30p
10a, 2:15p
12:30p, 4p
8a, 11:30a, 3:30p
9:30a, 1:30p, 5p
NOV 30 DEC 20
6:30a, 11a, 8:15a, 2:30p, 6:30p 4:45p
10a
2:30p
8a, 11:30a, 3:30p
9:30a, 1:30p, 5p
DEC 21 DEC 27
6:30a, 11a, 8:15a, 2:30p, 4:45p 6:30p
10a
2:30p
8a, 11:30a, 3:30p
9:30a, 1:30p, 5p
10a
2:30p
DEC 28 JAN 3
6:30a, 11a, 8:15a, 2:30p, 4:45p 6:30p
10a
2:30p
8a, 11:30a, 3:30p
9:30a, 1:30p, 5p
11a, 4p
1p, 5:30p
6:30a, 11a, 8:15a, 2:30p, 6:30p 4:45p THANKSGIVING 11a
12:30p
6:30a, 11a, 8:15a, 2:30p, 4:45p 6:30p
9a, 11a, 3p, 7p
8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 2p, 5p
8:15a, 11a, 3p, 5p
9a, 11a, 3p, 5p
8:15a, 11a, 3p, 5p
9a, 1p, 6p
10:45a, 4p
11a, 4p
8:15a, 2p, 5:30p
11a, 4p
1p, 5:30p
9a, 1p, 6p
10:45a, 4p
10a, 4p
8:15a, 2p, 5:30p
7a, 11a, 4p
9a, 1p, 5:45p
9a, 1p, 6p
10:45a, 4p
11a, 4p
8:15a, 2p, 5:30p
11a, 4p
1p, 5:30p
11a, 4p
1p, 5:30p
11a, 4p
1p, 5:30p
11a, 4p
8:15a, 2p, 5:30p
11a, 4p
1p, 5:30p
CHRISTMAS 9a, 1p, 6p
10:45a, 4p
Dock address: 304 Great Island Road Narragansett, RI 02882 For more information call 866-783-7996 x 3 or visit BlockIslandFerry.com 40 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
2020
Seasonal High-Speed Ferry Service Passengers and bikes only • Reservations recommended
Point Judith, RI to Block Island New London, CT to Block Island PT. JUDITH/BLOCK ISLAND ––––– HIGH SPEED ––––– Approximate sailing time is 30 minutes Days
May 21Jun 19
Mon-Fri Sat-Sun
Departs Pt. Judith
Departs Block Island
8a, 10:30a, 12:30p, 5:45p
9a, 11:30a, 4:30p, 6:30p
8:15a, 10:30a, 12:30p, 9a, 11:30a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5:45p 4:30p, 6:30p
Memorial Day - Monday, May 25 use Sunday schedule Jun 20Sep 7
Mon-Sun
7:15a, 9a, 11:10a, 1:20p, 4:50p, 6:45p
8a, 10:05a, 12:15p, 3:30p, 5:50p 7:35p
Labor Day - Monday, September 7 use Sunday schedule Sep 8Oct 12
Mon-Fri
8a, 10:30a, 12:30p, 5:45p
Sat-Sun
Oct 23Nov 22
Fri Sat-Sun
8a, 11a, 3p 9a, 1p
9a, 1:30p, 4:15p 11a, 4p
Nov 25Nov 29
Wed Thur Fri Sat Sun
3p Thanksgiving 10:30a, 3p 9:30a, 11:30a 9:30a, 1p
4:30p No Service 1p, 5p 10:30a, 4p 11a, 3:30p
Extra July & August Sunday Departures
8a, 12:30p, 4:30p 9:30a, 1:30p, 5:30p 8:15a, 12:30p, 3:30p 9:30a, 1:30p, 4:30p
Newport dock: Perrotti Park, 39 America’s Cup Ave. Newport, RI 02840 Block Island dock: Old Harbor, Water St. Block Island, RI 02807 Dates
Days
Departs Newport
Departs Block Island
Jun 20 Sep 7
Mon -Sun
9:45a, 12:30p
11:15a, 5:10p
Fall River dock: 1 Water Street, Fall River, MA 02840 Block Island dock: Old Harbor, Water St. Block Island, RI 02807 Approximate sailing time is 2 hours 15 minutes Days
Departs Newport
Departs Block Island
Jun 20 Sep 7
Mon -Sun
8:30a
5:10p
Block Island Ferry
Block Island Express
Dock Location: 304 Great Island Road, Narragansett, RI (Point Judith) (401) 783-7996
Dock Location: 2 Ferry St. New London, CT 860-444-GO B.I. (4624)
Year-Round Daily Flights Westerly, RI to Block Island New England Airlines Summer Schedule
Westerly to Block Island: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. — Half past almost EVERY HOUR, Every Day. Thursday until 7:30 p.m.* Friday until 8:30 p.m. * Block Island to Westerly: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. – just about EVERY HOUR on the hour, Every Day. Monday, beginning at 6:45 a.m. Friday until 8 p.m.* Sunday until 7 p.m.* *(NOTE: Schedule may vary. Please call/book in advance.)
Off-Season(Fall-Spring) Schedule
Westerly to Block Island: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. — Half past every OTHER hour, Every Day. Friday until 7:30 p.m.* Block Island to Westerly: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. — every OTHER hour on the hour, Every Day. *(NOTE: Schedule may vary. Please call/book in advance)
Off-Season(Winter) Schedule
Westerly to Block Island: 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. — Half past every OTHER hour, Every Day. Block Island to Westerly: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. — every OTHER hour on the hour, Every Day. *(NOTE: Schedule may vary. Please call/book in advance) For information or reservations, call Westerly State Airport 56 Airport Rd. Westerly, RI 02891 (401) 596-2460 or (800) 243-2460 blockislandsairline.com
www.blockislandinfo.com
5pm
12pm 12pm 12pm 12pm 12pm 12pm 12pm 12pm 12pm
Depart Depart Montauk Block Island
Friday, Sept. 18 Saturday, Sept. 19 Sunday, Sept. 20 Friday, Sept. 25 Saturday, Sept. 26 Sunday, Sept. 27 Friday, Oct.2 Saturday, Oct.3 Sunday, Oct. 4 Friday, Oct. 9 Saturday, Oct. 10 Sunday, Oct. 11 Monday, Oct. 12
FALL RIVER/BLOCK ISLAND ––––– HIGH SPEED –––––
Dates
2pm 2pm 2pm 2pm 2pm 2pm 2pm 2pm 2pm
Limited Fall Schedule
Approximate sailing time is 1 hour
10am
Depart Depart Montauk Block Island
Sunday, July 5 Sunday, July 12 Sunday, July 19 Sunday, July 26 Sunday, August 2 Sunday, August 9 Sunday, August 16 Sunday, August 23 Sunday, August 30
NEWPORT/BLOCK ISLAND ––––– HIGH SPEED –––––
5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm
Depart Depart Montauk Block Island
Fri. June 19 To Sun. Sept. 13
Columbus Day - Monday, October 12 use Sunday schedule Fri Sat-Sun
10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am
Begin Daily Service
9a, 11:30a, 4:30p, 6:30p
8:15a, 10:30a, 12:30p, 9a, 11:30a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5:45p 4:30p, 6:30p
Oct 16Oct 18
Depart Depart Montauk Block Island
Friday, May 22 Saturday, May 23 Sunday, May 24 Monday, May 25 Friday, May 29 Saturday, May 30 Sunday, May 31 Friday, June 5 Saturday, June 6 Sunday, June 7 Friday, June 12 Saturday, June 13 Sunday, June 14
Pt. Judith dock: 304 Great Island Rd. Narragansett, RI 02882 Block Island dock: Old Harbor, Water St. Block Island, RI 02807 Dates
Montauk, NY to Block Island Limited Pre-Season Schedule
10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am 10am
5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm
Viking Fleet Dock Location: 462 West Lake Dr., Montauk, NY (631) 668-5700
Harbor & Marina Information Harbors Old Harbor: Contact the Old Harbor Dockmaster at VHF Ch. 12, or (401) 466-3235 New Harbor: Contact the Harbormaster on VHF Ch.12, or (401) 466-3204 Free pump-out is available: Old Harbor at VHF Ch.72 New Harbor at VHF Ch.73
Marinas
New Harbor Boat Basin (401) 480-1429 Champlin’s Marina (800) 762-4541, (401) 466-7777 Payne’s Dock (401) 466-5572 Public dinghy dock for visiting boaters is adjacent to Dead Eye Dick’s in New Harbor.
Close To Home, A World Away
41
Island Accommodations HOTELS Atlantic Inn (401) 466-5883/800-224-7422 atlanticinn.com See ad on Page 1
Blue Dory Inn (401) 466-9910/800-992-7290 blockislandinns.com Darius Inn (401) 466-2722 dariusblockisland.com
Block Island Beach House (401)466-5500 blockislandbeachhouse.com
Gothic Inn (401) 466-2918 thegothicinn.com
Champlin’s Resort & Marina (401) 466-7777/800-762-4541 champlinsresort.com
Hendrickson House (401) 466-2421 blockislandresorts.com
Harborside Inn (401) 466-5504/800-825-6254 blockislandreservations.com
Inn at Old Harbor (401) 466-2932 innatoldharbor.com
Hotel Manisses (401) 466-9898 blockislandstay.com Narragansett Inn (401) 466-2626 narragansettinn.net National Hotel (401) 466-2901 blockislandhotels.com Spring House Hotel (401) 466-5844/800-234-9263 springhousehotel.com See ad Page 5
INNS 1661 Inn (401) 466-2421 blockislandresorts.com See ad Inside Front Cover Ashley House (401)466-5504/800-825-6254 blockislandreservations.com Avonlea (401) 466-5891/800-992-7290 blockislandinns.com Ballard’s Inn (401) 466-2231 blockislandstay.com Barrington Inn (401) 466-5524 theinnatblockisland.com Bellevue House (401) 466-2912 blockislandbedandbreakfast.com
42 Close To Home, A World Away
INN at Spring House (401) 466-5418 springhouseblockisland.com See ad Page 5 New Shoreham House (401) 466-5504 blockislandreservations.com Old Bakery Inn (401) 466-5504 blockislandreservations.com Old Town Inn (401) 466-5958 oldtowninnbi.com Paynes Harborview Inn (401) 466-5758 paynesharborviewinn.com Rose Farm Inn (401) 466-2034 rosefarminn.com
Water Street Inn (401) 466-5504 blockislandreservations.com
RESERVATION SERVICES Block Island Accommodations Blockislandbedandbreakfast.com 800-232-5014 Block Island Reservations Blockislandreservations.com 800-825-6254 See ad on Back Cover Block Island Resorts Blockislandresorts.com 800-626-4773/ 401-466-2421 See ad inside Front Cover
REALTORS/HOUSE RENTALS Ballard Hall Real Estate (401) 466-8883 blockislandproperty.com See ad on Page 2 Beach Real Estate (401) 466-2312 bibeachrealestate.com See ad on Page 6 Block Island Realty (401) 466-5887 birealty.com See ad on Page 32 Lila Delman Real Estate (401) 466-8777 liladelman.com See ad on Page 45
Sea Breeze Inn (401) 466-2275 seabreezeblockisland.com
Offshore Property (401) 466-5446 offshorepropertyllc.com
Sea Crest Inn (401) 466-5504 blockislandreservations.com
Phillips Real Estate (401) 466-8806 phillipsonbi.com
Sullivan House (401) 466-5020 thesullivanhouse.com
Sullivan – Sotheby’s International Realty (401) 466-5521 sullivanbi.com See ad on Page 4
For the most accurate availability on Block Island, book direct. On-line sites, like Expedia and TripAdvisor, often don’t have Block Island’s full inventory. More accommodation types are available including B&B’s, apartments, time-shares, guest houses and cottages. Full listings are available at blockislandinfo.com. www.blockislandinfo.com
Island Dining 1661 Inn Breakfast & Brunch Buffet (401) 466-2421 blockislandresorts.com See ad Inside Front Cover Atlantic Inn, Restaurant 1879 (401) 466-5883 atlanticinn.com See ad on Page 1 Aldo’s Bakery (401) 466-2198 aldosbakery.com See ad on Page 6 Aldo’s Restaurant (401) 466-5871 aldosrestaurantblockisland.com See ad on Page 6 Ballard’s (401) 466-2231 blockislandstay.com Barn at the Spring House (401) 466-5418 springhousehotel.com See ad Page 5 Beachead (401) 466-2249 thebeacheadbi.com Ben & Jerry’s (401) 466-5430 Bethany’s Airport Diner (401) 466-3100 Block Island Maritime Grill (401) 465-7939 New Harbor Block Island Depot (401) 466-2403 Block Island Grocery (401) 466-2949 See ad Page 10 Block Island Oyster Bar & Grill (401) 466-2110 See ad on Page 12
Eli’s (401) 466-5230 elisblockisland.com Ernies Old Harbor Restaurant Water Street Finn’s Seafood Restaurant (401) 466-2473 finnsseafood.com Hotel Manisses Restaurant (401) 466-9898 blockislandstay.com Harbor Grill (401) 218-9570 theharborgrillbi.com Ice Cream Place (401) 466-2145 Kimberly’s (401) 466-8600 kimberlysblockisland.com See ad on Page 12 Los Gatitos (401) 466-5855 winfieldsbi.com McAloon’s (401) 466-2928 mcaloons.com Mia’s Gelateria Under National Porch Mohegan Restaurant & Bar (401) 466-5911 Narragansett Inn Restaurant (401) 466-2626 narragansettinn.net Odd Fellow’s Hall Café (401)466-2250 Old Harbor View Takeout Water Street Old Island Pub (401)466-2400
Block Island Pizza Pie Company (401) 466-9939
Old Post Office Bagel Shop (401) 466-5959
Calaveras (401) 466-2495
Payne’s “Killer Donuts” Food Truck New Harbor
Club Soda (401) 466-5397 clubsodabi.com Dead Eye Dick’s (401) 466-2654 deadeyedicksbi.com www.blockislandinfo.com
Poor People’s Pub (401) 466-8533 pppbi.com See ad on Page 8 Pots and Kettles Food Truck (401)864-2433 Corn Neck Road Rebecca’s Dockside (401) 466-2599 rebeccasseafood.com Rebecca’s on the Beach At Fred Benson Beach Pavilion Rebecca’s Seafood Restaurant (401) 466-5411 rebaccasseafood.com Seaside Market (401) 466-5876 See ad Page 10 Smitty’s Ice Cream New Harbor Southeast Light Delights Food Truck Southeast Light Spring House Restaurant (401-466-5844) springhouseblockisland.com See ad Page 5 Tigerfish (401) 466-2300 tigerfishbi.com See ad on Page 8 The Cracked Mug Café Ocean Ave. The Oar (401) 466-8820 blockislandresorts.com The National Hotel Tap & Grille (401) 466-2901 blockislandhotels.com Three Sisters (401) 466-9661 Winfield’s (401) 466-5856 winfieldsbi.com
Persephone’s Kitchen (401) 466-5070 persephoneskitchenbi.com
Close To Home, A World Away
43
A stop at the scenic North Light.
Group Tours
Lunch at The National.
A complete bus tour with guide.
Sometimes the logistics of booking a Block Island
lighthouse aficionados come out,” says Megan Moran, sales
vacation are overwhelming. That’s why group tours are so
manager for the Block Island Ferry. What appeals to folks
great! Everything is taken care of for you, customized to
is the inclusive nature of a tour, she says. You get round-
your needs. Whether overnight or just for the day, spring
trip ferry tickets, an island tour, lunch, and of course free
or fall, mid-week or weekend; Block Island has something
time for exploration. “Group tours bring a whole different
for you. There’s a ‘Lobsters & Lighthouses’ overnight group
dynamic to Block Island,” says Jessica Willi, Executive
tour, a ‘Ferry, Lunch & Tour’ day trip, and even a ‘Choose
Director of the Tourism Council. “This market is wonderful
Your Own Adventure’ group tour. Or, create your own —
for first-time visitors to the island. Everything is included
for a family wishing to reunite, a cyclist group, a private
in their day. And, as we know on Block Island, one visit will
or charter school, or a company looking for a fun place to
turn into a lifetime of visits.”
retreat, we have a Block Island experience just right for you. “We’ve had classic car associations, military reunions, and
For more information, go to blockislandinfo.com or blockislandferry.com.
Make the
Newport Visitors Center your first stop. (A short walk from the Newport ferry dock.)
EVENT & ATTRACTION TICKETS AREA MAPS ✦ BROCHURES LODGING & DINING RESERVATIONS Open 7 days a week 23 America’s Cup Avenue, Newport, RI FREE WIFI
Seasonal Daily Departures to Downtown Newport
DiscoverNewport.org | 800.326.6030 44 Close To Home, A World Away
www.blockislandinfo.com
1432 COONEYMUS ROAD Offered at $3,600,000 6,074 Sq. Ft. | 6-Bedroom Ocean View Retreat with Pool & Tennis Court
1738 CENTER ROAD
1635 & 331 SOUTHEAST ROAD
Offered at $5,100,000 5,838 Sq. Ft. | Two Homes on 2+ Acres, Private Staircase to Beach
Offered at $4,730,000 3,648 Sq. Ft. | Home & Artist Studio on 12+ Oceanfront Acres
Discover Island Life... Define your own version of luxury on Block Island. Offering breathtaking beaches, beautiful ocean and cliff views, miles of walking trails and a historic community with bustling, local businesses, Block Island is truly unique. With half of the Island conserved, it has been named on one of the last great places in the Western Hemisphere by the Nature Conservancy. Choose to explore it all or simply do nothing, your own Island story of luxury awaits.To learn more about the Island or any real estate questions you may have, stop by our office at 61 Dodge Street or call us at 401.466.8777. NEWPORT JAMESTOWN www.blockislandinfo.com
WATCH HILL NARRAGANSETT
PROVIDENCE BLOCK ISLAND Close To Home, A World Away
45
Block Island Reservations Block Island Reservations Block Block Island Reservations Located in the lobby of the Harborside Inn, directly across from the Old Harbor Ferry Located Located in in the the lobby lobby of of the the Harborside Harborside Inn, Inn, directly directly across across from from the the Old Old Harbor Harbor Ferry Ferry
Located Located in in the the lobby lobby of of the Harborside Harborside Inn, Inn, directly directly across from the Old Harbor Ferry
One stop shopping for lodging on Block Island! One stop shopping for lodging on Block Island!
www.blockislandreservations.com • (800) 825-6254 www.blockislandreservations.com • (800) 825-6254 One stop shopping for lodging on Block Island!
(800) 825-6254 www.blockislandreservations.com
Enjoy unparalleled unparalleledbeauty beauty Enjoy and endless activities for and endless activities for your Island getaway. your Island getaway.
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Photography by K. Curtis Photographyby byK. K.Curtis Curtis Photography Photography by K. Curtis
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