A tear drop-shaped mass of land off the Rhode Island coast, Block Island is a compelling destination that blends sandy dunes, unspoiled nature and an active nightlife into a great getaway. Now a popular summertime escape, the island is often overlooked during the off-season-which can make a spring or fall visit even more appealing.
Consider making your accommodations at one of the many choices in New Shoreham-within walking distance of most stores, bars and beaches on the island.
Stop by the Block Island Historical Society, a former inn that now exhibits island photographs, model ships and a room maintained with Victorian era furnishings.
Spend some time on the island's scenic and diverse beaches. Options include Ballard's Beach (by the long-running restaurant/nightspot of the same name), where you can have drinks served to you; Crescent Beach, a long stretch of sand that provides a beach pavilion and on-duty lifeguards; and Black Rock, a rougher stretch of surf that is rumoured to be an occasional nude beach but certainly has no such official designation.
Visit the famous Mohegan Bluffs, dramatic clay cliffs on the island's southeast side that were the site of a violent battle between the Mohegan and Manisee Indians many years ago. A staircase winds down to the beach at the base of the bluffs, and the adjoining Southeast Lighthouse is open to visitors during the summertime.
Get out for a fun night of bar hopping in New Shoreham. The aforementioned Ballard's and The National-a grand old inn with a bar and looooong outdoor porch with seating-are two of the best places to wet your whistle.
Commune with nature at Rodman's Hollow, near the south end of the island, or the national wildlife refuge near the north end. The hollow is a serene escape laced with hiking trails that are particularly stunning when the foliage changes colors in the fall. The wildlife refuge is known as a birdwatcher's paradise-particularly busy with migratory songbirds, endangered piping plovers and many gulls.
Feast on some of the island's superb seafood. Popular choices include swordfish, quahog (a small, thick-shelled clam), calamari and, of course, lobster served in all manner of preparations.
