Block Island, Rhode Island is a historic landmark about 9 miles south of Point Judith, Rhode Island and about 45 miles west of Martha’s Vineyard.

Block Island has a rich history which started with the name.  Although he was not the first to note the island, Adriaen Block named it after himself during an expedition in 1614 and by 1661 Block Island’s first settlers from the main land of Massachusetts arrived.

Block Island officially became part of Rhode Island during 1672.  When the island became part of the colony of Rhode Island, the local government adopted the name “New Shoreham”.

Over the next 338 years, Block Island has been able to preserve its history, landmarks, and beautiful nature filled scenery.  Over 40% of the island is protected from development and makes this one of our top vacation destinations for people that love nature, and love to literally get away from everything. 

The best seasons to visit Block Island are generally between May and October, with the highest temperatures occurring in July and August.  While there are heat waves from time to time, the average temperature during July and August is 77 degrees, making it perfectly mild for a day at the beach.

When vacationing on Block Island, there are a few favorite areas that tourists enjoy visiting.  The first place you should head to is one of the many beaches Block Island has to offer.  If you are a surfer, then Black Rock Beach has been said to be the best beaches for surfing on the island.  From the name you can surmise that this beach is rocky, so be careful when swimming or surfing here.  Black Rock Beach is located on the south side of the island.

If you have children, it’s best to visit either State Beach (also known as Fred Benson Town Beach) or Ballards Beach which are the only two beaches on the island with on-duty lifeguards.  State Beach has some amenities like a pavilion and beach rentals. 

Other areas to visit are the awe-inspiring bluffs, Mohegan Bluffs. At the entrance, there are around 141 steps that lower you to Bluffs Beach.  Be mindful of the bluff edges, and they are restricted to tourists, as erosion has caused some fatalities over the years. 

The Mohegan Bluffs are just west of the Southeast Lighthouse, another popular tourist attraction.  The lighthouse built in 1875 was actually moved in 1993 due to cliff erosion. 

Block Island is connected by ferry to Point Judith, Rhode Island, and during the summer months to New London, Connecticut, Montauk, New York and Newport, Rhode Island.  Traveling to block island requires that you book a ferry reservation months in advance for the summer season if you wish to bring your car onto the island.  You can always catch a plane from New England Airlines which is a 12 minute flight from Westerly, Rhode Island.

Block Island has other attractions like scuba diving, surfing, fine dining, unmatched privacy, breath taking views and much more.  There are hotels on the island, but the best way to spend your vacation is in one of the many private homes available for rent on Block Island.

Check out some vacation homes available around Block Island! 

Here are some helpful links for finding other recreation activities and information about Block Island, Rhode Island.

Town of New Shoreham Official Website
http://www.town.new-shoreham.ri.us/index.cfm

Official Wikipedia Entry
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Block_Island

Historical Society Museum
http://www.blockislandtimes.com/listings/2867912/Block-Island-Historical-Society