Quiz: Which of these Block Island adventures should you try this summer?
Just over an hour ferry ride from New London, Block Island offers a true beach escape.
Think you need to head to the airport if you want to take an island vacation? Think again.
Just off the coasts of Rhode Island and Connecticut, Block Island offers a true island getaway and an outdoor paradise. With beaches, bluffs, hiking trails, fishing, restaurants and a down-to-earth attitude, it’s been called the Bermuda of the North — and the perfect summer escape.
Even the journey to the island feels like a vacation. The Block Island Express ferry brings passengers from New London, Connecticut, to the island’s Old Harbor in just over an hour. Not only is it the fastest ferry service to the island, but its dock is also conveniently located just across the street from Amtrak’s New London Union Station. Along the way, you can take in amazing views from one of the ferry’s two air-conditioned lower decks or feel the ocean breeze from the open-air upper deck.
The only question that’s left for you to answer is the most enjoyable one: Which of the island’s endless activities should you start with once you’re there? Take this quiz to find out.
Story from Block Island Express
Are you looking to relax or to get your heart pumping?
Something relaxing, please!
Bring on the exercise!
Is your heart set on lounging by the beach, or are you open to other options?
I’m up for anything!
My heart’s set on the beach
Do you prefer to get your exercise on the water or on land?
On land
On water
Members of the editorial and news staff of the USA TODAY Network were not involved in the creation of this content
For more information about getting to Block Island and popular activities to do there, visit Block Island Express at goblockisland.com
Water sports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, surfing and more!
A wide variety of water sports can keep you busy for days. Rent a kayak to glide through the calm waters of the island’s New Harbor, take a surfing or paddleboarding lesson to learn how to ride the waves, or go parasailing to check out the ocean views from above!
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Are you traveling with babies or young kids?
No
Yes
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Baby Beach!
With gentle waves, shallow water and fewer rocks than other beaches on the island, the appropriately named Baby Beach is the perfect option for families with babies or toddlers. Located on the East Coast just below the popular Fred Benson Town Beach, the location is easy to access — and therefore easy for you to bring all your kid-friendly gear along. Local families love Baby Beach too, so don’t be surprised if you run into them here!
Kids will also love nearby 1661 Farm & Gardens, too. Just a 10-min walk from the ferry terminal and 20 minutes from Baby Beach, the farm is free to visit and features a changing line-up of domestic and exotic animals including goats, camels, emus, yaks, and even a zedonk, an adorable zebra-donkey mix. Learn about the animals through informational plaques and even pet the animals that come near, like the free-roaming alpacas who may be enticed by a fresh handful of hay.
Are you a foodie who loves to dine out?
No
Yes
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Block Island dining!
Dining on Block Island isn’t just about the food; it’s about the entire experience. From unbeatable ocean views to rotating menus featuring fresh-caught seafood to frequent live performances by local artists, your meals will surely be memorable. Be sure to visit Dead Eye Dick’s overlooking New Harbor offering exquisite cuisine and breathtaking views. In Old Harbor enjoy clam shack fare with a modern flair at Finn’s.
Additionally, the island’s dining scene offers something for everyone. More than 25 restaurants and cafes offer everything from casual food to fine dining, satisfying even the most discerning palates.
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Fred Benson Town, Scotch
and Mansion Beaches!
Located just a mile from the town center, Fred Benson Town Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island, and it’s easy to see why. Equipped with bathrooms, rental chairs and rental umbrellas, the beach is convenient as well as beautiful; Coastal Living magazine even named Fred Benson Town Beach one of the 21 Best Beaches in the nation.
For a bit more of a secluded beach day, head a bit further north of the Town Beach to Scotch and Mansion Beaches. Both provide public parking with a short pathway to the beach. White, flour-like sand and crystal clear waters await.
Do you want to be on your feet or on wheels?
On wheels
On my feet
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Renting a bicycle or moped!
The island’s small size makes it incredibly easy to navigate without a car, and lots of people prefer to get around by bicycle or moped. Renting one isn’t just a primary source of transportation — it’s also a fun way to get out and explore the island and its many hidden delights. Don’t miss The Block Island Bicycle Tour - a self-guided tour that takes you to some of the island’s top sights.
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Block Island shopping!
Shops on Block Island are full of local character and flair, offering items like handmade jewelry, pottery and artwork. The boutiques and their friendly owners are charming windows into island life, and you’re sure to walk away with a unique gift that you can find only on the island.
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Hiking!
Block Island offers 25 miles of hiking trails for all levels, from easy strolling paths to trails that provide a more moderate workout.
If you’re up for the latter, consider a hike on the southeast coast that gives you a chance to check out the island’s rugged 200-foot-tall Mohegan Bluffs. For the best view of the bluffs, you’ll climb down 141 steps to walk along the often-secluded beach on the island’s southern shore. After you make your way back up, don’t forget to check out the Southeast Light, a 52-foot lighthouse built in 1875 that’s a National Historic Landmark.
If you've always enjoyed scavenger hunts for colorful eggs around Easter time, Block Island has upped the ante with an island-wide search for hand-blown glass orbs of an even more precious kind with the Glass Float Project. Find one on your Block Island adventure!
The Nature Conservancy gave Block Island the distinction of being one of the Western Hemisphere’s 12 Last Great Places, and hiking the island gives you a chance to see some of the flora and fauna that helped it make the list.
