20 Stunning Things To Do In Block Island, Rhode Island

There is no better way to get to the island than through the Block Island Ferry while in Block Island. It provides a delightful ride across the Narragansett Bay. Depending on how you feel about riding the ferry to this delightful island, you may choose a normal or a high-speed ferry.

The ferry sails to and from Point Judith, Newport, or Falls River (seasonal) providing breathtaking sceneries of the ocean and the shores. The interior has been equipped with seating spaces, snack bars, and washrooms for the passengers' convenience during the journey.

The ferry offers a means of transport and is also one of the best things to do on Block Island.

Mansion Beach in Block Island is a perfect location to take a nap on the sandy beach, having no aggressive waves, and a nature view. Here one can swim in the water, sunbathe on the sunbed, or, just walk alongside the seashore.

For surfers, its waves are far from flat, and those with kids can relax and go tide pooling. Due to the remains of an old mansion situated not far from the beach, it possesses a rather nostalgic atmosphere. There are no facilities on the beach, however, most of the guests carry some food with them.

If you want to have some good fun with the farm animals, visit Abrans Animals Farm on Block Island. This place is beautifully located in the woods and has several animals such as a black pig, a donkey-zebra hybrid, a tortoise, an emu, and many other animals.

Guests may walk around the farm and its grounds, appreciate the animals almost at hand and observe their behavior in a calm atmosphere. Due to the farm's dedication to creating a healthy and loving environment, it is one of the excellent things to do in Block Island Rhode Island that aims towards learning, enjoyment, and nature.

For those who appreciate history, the Block Island Historical Society is an attractive place to visit. This small museum provides a more in-depth understanding of Block Island and its history.

The complete Manissean stone tools and the ancient relics of sailing and agriculture in New England are in the collection, along with colonial artifacts and scaled-up photos from the Victorian period.

The exposition, which takes up a part of the hall on both floors, contains antique wardrobes, objects of the Victorian era, embroideries in the form of bed linens, miniature ships, angling paraphernalia, and ancient charts. Hence, the past of the island can also be appreciated by the visitors differently.

Block Island's southern coast proudly features Mohegan Bluffs, which includes stunning clay cliffs that rise to approximately 150 feet in height.

A small beach stretches out at the bottom of these cliffs, one that offers a picturesque view and is a favorite spot of the islanders for swimming and surfing activities. 141 steps lead to the beach, and it is a long way down, however, it is a good trip to do.

In this context, it is worth mentioning that Mohegan Bluffs is also the 5th point in the Block Island Bicycle Tour, and that is why it is significant for the overall discovery of the beauty and historical landmarks of this island.

Block Island Oyster Bar and Grill is one dining place on Block Island that people should never miss. It is the outcome of a thirty-year togetherness between all the owners who had been friends and worked together in business before there is more than great cooking and deeper hospitality.

The eatery is famous for its seafood. For this reason, the establishment offers a variety of oysters, clams, and other fish dishes delightfully cooked, with an inviting ambiance. The meals are beautifully prepared and enjoyed with sweeping views of the island, which makes it ideal for an enjoyable and unforgettable experience.

The Star Department Store is a conventional and vintage family-run clothing and gift store. A small and beautiful store that started in front of over a hundred years ago and up to this time people and visitors continue to shop at it.

It has only quite a limited choice of clothes, accessories, jewelry, and gifts which can make gifts or give a stylish accent to something or to any store.

The store's inviting and homely environment is based on the history of the store and its founder's family. It transports one back in time and pays homage to the customs of the past and the inimitable ambiance of Block Island.

Settler's Rock, situated at the northernmost point of Block Island, serves as a landmark with historical significance to the, namely, European settlers that colonized the island starting from 1661. A granite boulder, which is close to charming Sachem Pond where it sits perfectly, bears the chronology of the first families that occupied the land.

It is also possible to visit this area to get breathtaking sight of the North Lighthouse and enjoy some of the birds; migratory ones, in particular.

This is also the reason why it is popular among the settlers' rock history and nature lovers who can spend a quiet time with the memories of the interesting times of Block Island while admiring the ocean.

Rodman's Hollow is a beautiful nature sanctuary that covers an area of 230 acres and is located on Block Island, which sits in a glacial fold. It has a remarkable coastal greenwood ecosystem where a myriad of plants and animals flourish.

This region is famous for its exceptional scenery, making it possible to see the Atlantic Ocean from all angles. Guests can indulge in stunning nature walks, enjoy the sight of various wildlife, or simply relish the gorgeous views around them.

The hollow opens up access to Black Rock Beach as well, adding to its charm as one of the most beautiful things to do in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island's 1661 Farm & Garden is a great place for animal lovers and families. Occupying over 5 acres of land, this working farm has an astounding variety of animals such as a couple of camels, llamas, pygmy and fainting goats, black swans, lemurs, and many more.

There is a walking path around the grounds and gardens that provides an opportunity to see some of these animals up close. This is also a place which is ideal for families where for example children can see different animal species and the habitats they live in. It is a great location for anyone who desires to see the flora and fauna at a slow pace.

Located on Block Island, Rhode Island, Crescent Beach is an attractive location comprising golden sand and relaxed warm waters. This beach lies between Old Harbor and Clay Head and is quite ideal for swimming, sun-basking, as well as beachcombing.

Due to the beautiful sight of the Atlantic Ocean, this beach is perfect for lounging or taking a stroll by the beach. Some visitors can rent equipment such as kayaks and paddleboards to engage in some water sports or go and hike the dunes nearby.

It is worth mentioning that the beach is well-oriented and therefore has restaurants and rental services within short reach.

For every nature and hike lover, the Clayhead Nature Trail in Block Island, Rhode Island is highly recommended. The trail is known for its stunning coastal views and offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean after passing through green vegetation.

The path also embraces steep clay banks, quiet beaches, holes, and areas where one can observe migratory birds. This place is perfect for taking pictures as well as for a quiet stroll or having lunch. The Clayhead Nature Trail is open all year round and allows one to experience Block Island's beauty, fun, and peace at the same time.

Saint Andrew Roman Catholic Church is an inviting place that offers a wonderful spiritual experience to all people who decide to visit it. The church is distinguished by its beautiful antiquated woodwork and stained glass windows which tell the historical perspective of the island.

In warmer climates, the construction of the church is such that air can circulate freely through the open windows, door, and entrance, thus providing a cool and relaxed environment. This calm environment gives the visitors a suitable place for meditation and connection.

Jessie Edwards Studio is a top-notch gallery situated above the Old Town Harbor. The studio focuses on contemporary fine art and shows the works of 20 regional and local artists.

Many different and ongoing exhibits including paintings, drawings, ceramics, photographs, woodcuts, and fine art prints of all kinds are available here. The gallery also has Fair Trade handicrafts and some beautiful artsy baubles, making it possible to merely browse or look for that ideal souvenir.

This studio is an extraordinary combination of incredible offers and breathtaking harbor views, hence it is a great cultural resource and worth visiting attraction.

This art gallery named the Spring Street Gallery is the only cooperative art gallery on the island and is doing well culturally exhibiting a variety of local art. The non-profit gallery displays works of local artists as well as provides art classes, workshops, and art opening receptions weekly.

This is because the members of the gallery run it, thus providing a unique and personalized service in a warm and welcoming environment.

Apart from its changing shows, the center presents films and lectures throughout the year with a series of discussions and offers some of its space to local artists who stay in the area during the season.

The Southeast lighthouse is located on the island of RI and occupies a cliff, and it has the features of the Gothic Revival style. This historic lighthouse here gives a picturesque view of the past of the region and exploration at sea.

The museum inside exhibits progress in aids to coastal navigation and the importance of lighthouses in fighting the elements, among other themes. The lighthouse also has amazing pictures of the indented coastline.

Moreover, there are tours offered for those interested in the stories about the lighthouse as well as its importance to the coastal culture of Block Island.

On Block Island, Rhode Island, Fred Benson Town Beach draws a lot of people who go to the beach. It is located in a state park and features a busy oceanfront with pleasing views. Apart from the ocean, beach umbrellas and chairs are for rent to facilitate the clients' ease.

The beach, of course, is not only beautiful but also well-cared for, with lifeguards on duty, and tuned vending fast food nearby. This beach is ideal for those in a family or group wanting to spend time on the beach: soft, clean sand, blue water, and lots of things to do which makes this place suitable for both leisure and active tourism.

The Great Salt Pond is a quiet place that provides an opportunity for both fun and relaxation. The shallow pond is roughly a mile long and 1/2 mile wide and is divided by a main channel with varying depths of between 11 and 20 feet making it suitable for boating, kayaking, and even paddle boarding.

There are seven marinas in the area, appropriately providing enough piers and services to the waterborne visitors. Besides, there are a few beaches for exploration, a few eateries for some waterfront dining or even fishing in peace at the great salt pond. 

Therefore, its beautiful views and tranquil setting make it one of the highlights of Block Island.

The Block Island National Wildlife Refuge is situated approximately 12 miles offshore on beautiful Block Island, which is a quiet sanctuary with 127 acres of a protected area for different species. It is famous for birdwatchers because it is located on a migratory path for several birds, including warbler and raptor species.

Here, visitors can traverse beautiful trails passing through dunes, meadows, and saline woods that offer panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Other activities in the area include fishing, taking pictures, and enjoying the scenery.

In addition, the refuge assists in conservation efforts, thus it is an ideal place where one can enjoy the beauty of the diverse ecosystems.

The Ocean View Pavilion is a quiet and beautiful place suitable for relaxation and scenic views. This delightful pavilion provides a restful shaded area that visitors can enjoy without forgetting the rich views of the Atlantic Ocean.

It is also a great area for enjoying snacks, engaging in literature, or just staring at the picturesque landscape of the island. To complete the existing breezy atmosphere accompanied by access to various amenities, the Ocean View Pavilion is a popular spot amongst the tourists and the residents.

There, it is possible to take a shortcut and relax between excursions around Block Island. Overall, it is one of the Block Island RI things to do.