Block Island S u m m e r 2 014
the Island is Calling the insider’s guide to the best Block Island summer ever www.SORhodeIsland.com
Brought to you By
Sail Away
BLOCK ISLAND FERRY
Dates Jan 6 thru March 23
Days Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun
Departing Pt. Judith 6:30a, 11a, 4:45p 10a 10a 6:30a, 11a, 4:45p 9a, 1p, 6p 11a, 4p 11a, 4p
Departing Block Island 8:15a, 2:30p, 6:30p 2:30p 2:30p 8:15a, 2:30p, 6:30p 10:45a, 4p 8:15a, 2p, 5:30p 12:45p, 5:30p
Service from Pt. Judith, Newport, and Fall River.
Mon, Thu March 24 Tue, Wed thru Fri April 13 Sat Sun
6:30a, 11a, 4:45p 10a, 2:15p 9a, 1p, 6p 6:30a,11a, 4p 11a, 3p
2:30p, 6:30p 308:15a, Minute 12:30p, 4p Hi-Speed Ferry 10:45a, 4p. 7:30p
Mon, Thu April 14 Tue, Wed thru Fri May 2 Sat Sun
6:30a, 11a, 4:30p 7:30a, 11:30a, 4:30p 7:30a, 1p, 6p 6:30a, 11a, 4:30p 11a, 3p 6:30a, 9a,11a, 3p, 5p 9a, 11a, 3p, 5p 9a, 11a, 3p, 7p 9a, 11a, 2p, 5p 9a, 11a, 3p 6:30a, 9a, 11a, 3p, 5p 9a, 11a, 3p, 5p 9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p,7p 9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p 9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
8:15a, 2:30p, 6:30p 9:30a 2:30p, 6:30p 9:30a, 4p, 7:30p 8:15a, 3p, 6p 1p, 5p 8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p 8:15a,11:45a, 3p, 5p 8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p 8:15a, 11a,, 3p, 5p 8:15a, 11a, 3p, 5p 8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p 8:15a,11:45a, 3p, 5p 8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p 8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p 8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p Departing Pt. Judith
8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p Departing Block Island
Mon Tue, Wed, Thu Fri Sat Sun
6:30a, 9a, 11a, 3p, 5p 9a, 11a, 3p, 5p 9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p 9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p 9a,11a, 1p, 3p, 5p
8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p 8:15a,11:45a, 3p, 5p 8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p 8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p 8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p
Mon - Fri
8:30a, 11a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5:15p, 7p
8:15a, 11a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5:15p, 7p
May 3 thru May 18
May 19 thru May 25
Mon Tue - Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue -Thu Fri Sat Sun
Jun 16 thru Jun 20
Mon Days
July 4
Fri
Jun 21 thru Aug 24
Mon - Fri
Aug 25 thru Aug 31
Mon - Fri
Sep 1 Labor Day
Sat, Sun
Sat, Sun Mon
8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 8a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 1:30p, 4p, 5p, 6p, 8p 3p, 4p, 5:30p, 7p, 8p 8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 8a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 1:30p, 3p, 5:45p, 7p 4p, 5:15p, 7:45p 8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 8a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 1:30p, 4p, 6p, 7p, 8p 5p, 6p, 8p, 9p 8:30a, 11a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 8:15a, 11a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5:15p, 7p 5:15p, 7p 8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 8:15a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 4p, 5:30p, 7p, 8p 1:30p, 3:30p, 5p, 6p, 7p 8a, 9:30a, 10:30a, 11:45a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5p, 6p, 7p
8:15a, 10a, 11:30a, 12:45p, 3p, 4p, 5:30p, 7p, 8p
9a, 11a, 3p, 5p 8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p 8:30a, 11a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 8:15a, 11a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5:15p, 7p 5:15p, 7p 9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p 8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p Sat - Sun 9a, 11a, 3p, 5p Departs State Pier, Galilee 8:15a, 11:45a, 3p, 5p Mon - Thu Sep 8 8:30a, 11a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5:15p, 7p 8:15a, 11a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5:15p, 7p Fri Visit thru the website for a full schedule 9a, 11a, 1p, 5p 8:15a, 11a, 3p, 5p Sat Oct 10 9a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p 8:15a, 11a, 1p, 3p, 5p, 7p Sun Sat Oct 11 8:15a, 11a, 3p, 5p 9a, 11a,1p, 5p Sun thru 8:15a, 11a, 3p, 5p 9a, 11a, 1p, 5p Mon Oct 13 11a, 1:30p, 3:30p, 5:15p, 7p 1:30p, 3:30p, 5:15p,Trucks 7p 8:15a, * * Passenger Bikes 8:30a, 11a, Vehicles Freight 9:30a, 2:30p, 6:30p 7:30a, 11:30a, 4 :30p Tue, Wed * Oct reservation for4:30p vehicle transportation 8:15a, 2:30p, 6:30p 6:30a, 11a, 14 Thu required 9:30a, 4p, 7:30p 7:30a, 1p, 6p thru Fri 9a, 2p, 6p 7:15a, 11a, 4p Oct 19 Sat 10:a, 2p, 6p 8a, 12p, 4p Sun Sept 2 thru Sep 7
Tue - Thu Fri
60 Minute Traditional Ferry
8:15a, 2p, 5:30p 1p, 5p
Pt. Judith Traditional Ferry
May 26 Memorial Dates Day May 27 thru June 15
on the
Pt. Judith Hi-Speed Ferry Departing Pt. Judith Departing Block Island Days 9a, 11:30a, 8a, 10:30a, Mon -Fri 4:30p, 6:30p 12:30p, 5:30p May 22 thru 9a, 11:30a, 1:30p, Sat, Sun 8a, 10:30a, 12:30p, June 20 4:30p, 6:30p 3:30p, 5:30p
Dates
Memorial Day - Monday, May 26 - use Sunday schedule
June 21 thru Mon-Sun Sept 1
7:15a, 9a, 11:10a, 1:20p, 4:40p, 6:45p
• Docks in the center of town at Old Harbor
7:55a, 10:05a, 12:15p, 3:30p, 5:45p, 7:35p
Labor Day - Monday, Sept. 1 - use Sunday schedule
Sept 2 thru Oct 13
8a, 10:30a, 12:30p, 5:45p Sat, Sun 8:15a, 10:30a,12:30p, 3:30p, 5:45p
Mon -Fri
9a, 11:30a, 4:30p, 6:30p 9a, 11:30a, 1:30p, 4:30p, 6:30p
Columbus Day - Monday, Oct. 13 - use Sunday schedule
Departs State Pier, Galilee
Check Our Website For Vacation Packages!
Newport to Block Island Departing Newport Departing Block Island Dates Days June 21 9:45a, 12:30p 11:15a, 6:05p thru Mon-Sun Sept 1
Departs Perrotti Park, Downtown Newport
Fall River to Block Island Departing Fall River Departing Block Island Dates Days June 21 8:30a 6:05p thru Mon-Sun Sept 1
866-783-7996 www.blockislandferry.com
Departs State Pier, One Water Street, Fall River
@BlockIsleFerry
/TheBlockIslandFerry
Detox.
LIGHTING
79A Tom Harvey Road Right near the airport
H A R D WA R E
79A Tom Harvey Road Westerly, RI
PLUMBING
401-315-2727
water-spot.com
BosToN | NATICK | PRoVIDENCE | WEsTERLY | WooNsoCKET
Ardente WaterSpot is conveniently located near the airport in Westerly, just minutes away by flight. We have daily deliveries to Block Island. Call us and we’ll pick you up at the Westerly Airport.
BlockIslandBedAndBreakfast.com (401) 466-2912
affORDabLE & CONVENIENT
The soaring cliffs of Mohegan Bluffs are one of the island’s most famous landmarks
29
Contents 9 Transportation
26 Beach Guide
10 Accommodations
29 Get Active
13 Calendar of Events
30 Nature & Scenery
18 Block Island Map
32 Dining Guide
Get to and around the island
Find a cozy place to stay
Keep the fun going all summer
Learn the lay of the land
21 Water Street
Come on in, the water’s fine
Stay on the move by land or sea
Take in the island’s natural beauty
Have a taste of the island’s food scene
Photography: Stacey Doyle
Venture over to the other side of the island
25 Dodge Street & Corn Neck Road Visit some of the locals’ favorite haunts
(401) 295-1100 • LIMODRIVER@COX.NET aIRLINEEXpREssLIMOusINE.COM
Paddleboard & Surf Lessons Surfing instruction for all Ages and skill levels Guided spearfishing excursions Equipment rentals
Vacation Packages and Paddle Membership Available Ocean Adventures (401) 368-2611 oceanadventuresbi@gmail.com Only live lobster tank on the island
Explore the lively town center
23 New Harbor
Let us be your #1 choice to and from the ferry!
On the cover: A view of Water Street and Old Harbor from the Surf Hotel. photographed by: Michael Melford
Find up-to-date events and more information at
www.SoRhodeIsland.com
fill at
Eat in, or take out - sit and enjoy the view from our decks Seafood Restaurant & Fish Market
212 Water Street, Old Harbor Block Island, RI • (401) 466.2473 Across from the ferry landing SO Block Island
|5
Block Island’s Premier Waterfront Hotel
Summer Special* Book Any Room Midweek Night And A Three-Course Dinner Is Included! 45 rooms with private baths, televisions & telephones Full service restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner
ice cream shakes smoothies waffle cones
Right across from the Ferry Landing Live Entertainment Come try our award winning Clam Chowder
*Use Promo Code SOBI online or mention this ad when making your reservation. (800) 225-2449 • www.blockislandhotels.com
Located Right Across From The Ferry Landing In Old Harbor – Water Street
(401) 466 - 5430
Only 100 Steps From The Ferry!
Provisions for Island Time Original Block Island Inspired Gifts & Unique Accessories For Cottage, Beach, Baby, Pets And Much, Much More
401.859.1524 • Water Street (under the National Hotel) www.BlockIslandTradingCompany.com 6|
SO Block Island
Your Island Adventure Awaits Whether you’re a first timer or a return visitor, there is always something new and wonderful to discover in the Ocean State’s island getaway. Once you step off the ferry (or plane) you’ll discover a destination that is both booming summer resort town and unspoiled nature retreat. With a bustling town center, some of the best beaches you’ll find anywhere and acre upon acre of preserved land to explore via hiking trails, Block Island offers enough to do for a weekend escape, an extended vacation or even a whole summer. Of course, we could never cover all that Block Island has to offer, but this is your introduction to some of the can’t-miss things to see, do and discover. A quick note before you set off: exact street addresses are maddeningly rare on the island. Most buildings don’t have street numbers in a place where the locals still collect their mail at the post office. Thus, we have done our best to provide you with useful locations and contact info, but when in doubt, ask a local!
Welcome to Block Island.
1070 Main St., Suite 302, Pawtucket RI 02860 For advertising rates call: 401-305-3391
www.SoRhodeIsland.com • So@SoRhodeIsland.com facebook.com/SoRhodeIslandmag Publishers Barry Fain Richard Fleischer John Howell Publishing Director Jeanette St. Pierre Executive Editor Julie Tremaine Special Projects Manager John Taraborelli Digital Manager Elyena de Goguel Associate Editor Grace Lentini Art Director Meghan H. Follett Assistant Art Director Veatsna Sok Advertising Design Director Layheang Meas
Graphic Designers Caitlin Musso, Jason Lee
banana boat Rides aRe back
Account Managers Ann Gallagher, Kristine Mangan, Elizabeth Riel Contributing Photographers Marylou Butler, Stacey Doyle, Stephanie Izzo, Tiffany Medrano, Michael Melford, Julie Tremaine Interns Anita Baffoni, Miranda Bassage, Daren DeFrank, Elizabeth Lorenz, Christina Micela, Paige Snyder, Stacey Swift Brought to you by
Copyright ©2014 by Providence Media, All rights reserved. Distributed by Special Delivery We welcome all contributions, but we assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. No portion of this publication can be reproduced in whole or in part without prior written permission.
Old Harbor Dock 401-864-2474 Established 1989
www.blockislandparasail.com SO Block Island
|7
When You’re Ready For The Best, Call Little Rest
Sunset on the ferry
Transportation Mainland Transportation Of Choice
Getting to the island by boat or plane (we don’t recommend swimming) Block Island Ferry
Little Rest Livery Inc. 401-294-1414 • Located in South county Book onLine at LittLereStLimo.com
Charters
since 1982
Old HarbOr • blOck ISland
All BAit & tAckle Provided
Great rateS
2 HOurS $290 • 3 HOurS $390 • 4 HOurS $490
BASS • BlueS • Fluke reServatIOnS OffIce: 401-466-5151 • bOat: 484-431-7131
cAPtAin Bill Gould
www.GWilliecharters.com 8|
SO Block Island
Point Judith 304 Great Island Rd., Narragansett Both traditional and high-speed schedules vary throughout the season. Check the website for a detailed schedule. Newport Perotti Park, America’s Cup Ave. June 21-September 1 Monday-Sunday Departs Newport at 9:45am and 12:30pm; departs Block Island at 11:15am and 6:05pm. Fall River Fall River State Pier, 1 Water St. June 21-September 1 Monday-Sunday Departs Fall River at 8:30am; departs Block Island at 6:05pm.
New England Airlines If you absolutely can’t wait a whole half-hour to get your island adventure started, your aerial option will get you there in a scant 12 minutes. Departures
from Westerly State Airport are every hour on the half-hour during peak months. 56 Airport Rd., Westerly. 800-243-2460, blockisland.com/nea
INSIDER TIP: If you don’t feel like paying to park at the airport or ferry dock, or just want to arrive in style, A Airline Express (401-295-1100, airlineexpresslimousine.com) and Little Rest Livery (401-294-1414, littlerestlimo.com) both offer car service to and from your destination.
Photography: Stacey Doyle
Clean comfortable vehicles to meet your every expectation
The best-known method of traveling to the island is, of course, the Block Island Ferry. It even has its own theme song (cue steel drums) and signature cocktail (the Chai-tini). There are both a bar and snack bar on board, but take a lesson from us: no matter how much you beg and plead, the bar will not serve alcohol until the ferry leaves the dock. There are three departure points for the ferry. Point Judith is the most common, offering both traditional (55 minutes) and high-speed (30 minutes) service. Newport and Fall River offer high-speed service only. For full schedule and more information, visit blockislandferry.com or call 401-783-4613.
The
Transportation Once you’ve arrived on the island, you’ll need to get around Block Island is easy to navigate without a car. Much of what you want to see and do is within an easy walk from the ferry, but if you really want to explore, your best options are taxi, bicycle and moped.
Taxi McGovern’s Taxi 401-862-6087 mcgovernstaxi.com
Special rates Mon-Thurs through Labor Day
Dodge Street, Block Island • (401) 466-2918 www.thegothicinn.com • email: thegothicinn@cs.com
Rondo’s Taxi 401-446-5550
ONLY
Bicycle/Moped
12 MINUTES
Between Westerly and Block Island
Aldo’s Mopeds and Bikes Weldon’s Way 401-466-5018 Island Moped and Bike 41 Water St. 401-741-2329 bimopeds.com
Photography: Marylou Butler
Situated by the sea in the heart of the historic district, the Gothic Inn combines the convenience of location with the warm hospitality of a family run country inn. Some pet friendly rooms
Mig’s Rig Taxi 401-480-0493 migsrigtaxi.com
Old Harbor Bike Shop Water St. 401-466-2029 blockislandtransportation.com
Gothic Inn
Discover Block Island The Bermuda of the North
The Moped Man 435 Water St. 401-466-5444 themopedman.com
INSIDER TIP: Want to get around and learn about the island at the same time? There are no public bus or trolley tours, but MIg Rig’s Taxi (401480-0493) will arrange a one-hour guided tour narrated by your driver. Pickup is available at the Taxi Stand located in Old Harbor or any location of your choice.
Unspoiled Beaches • The Bluffs • Windsurfing • Sailing... Hourly Flights • Daily • Year-Round Charter flights anywhere Westerly 401-596-2460 • E-mail: flybi@biri.com Toll Free 800-243-2460 www.Block-Island.com/nea SO Block Island
|9
Accommodations Where (and how) to stay on the island
Atlantic Inn
Number of rooms: 21 Room types: 21 guest rooms of all different sizes Amenities: Private bath and telephone, wrap-around veranda Dining: Fine dining, tapas and cocktails, complimentary continental breakfast Distance from ferry: 0.5 mile High St. 800-224-7422, atlanticinn.com.
Ballard’s Inn
The Atlantic Inn exterior,
Number of rooms: 5 Room types: two queens, king, deluxe with two queens and balcony Amenities: private baths, 40-inch flat screen with DirecTV, air conditioning, wireless internet, private beach Dining: Full restaurant and bar Distance from ferry: 0.1 mile Water St. 401-466-2231, ballardsinn.com.
Number of rooms: Nine guest rooms, one large guest suite and three apartments Room types: Standard guest room, one large guest suite with a queen size bed and queen size sleeping sofa Amenities: Private bath in suites, TV/satellite, refrigerator, apartments each have a kitchen and two bedrooms, pet-friendly Dining: continental breakfast Distance from ferry: 0.4 mile Dodge St. 401-466-2918, thegothicinn.com
Hotel Manisses
Number of rooms: 17 Room types: Double, queen, king and two doubles Amenities: All rooms have private baths; some have refrigerator, TV, spa tub or private porch Dining: Fine dining served nightly in the Dining Room Distance from ferry: 0.2 mile
10 |
SO Block Island
5 Spring St. 401-466-2421, blockislandresorts.com
Narragansett Inn
Number of rooms: Four Victorian style buildings with 17 guest rooms total Room types: Queen or two twins, room for two with running water or private bath, two- or three-room suite with private bath Amenities: Private beach for guests Dining: Catered events and a dinner menu full of seafood prepared by Chef Al Lemire Distance from ferry: 0.5 mile Ocean Ave. 401-466-2626, narragansettinn.net
The 1661 Inn
Number of rooms: 9 Room types: Queen, king and double queen Amenities: All rooms have private baths, television and small refrigerators; canopy beds, decks and whirlpool tubs available in some rooms.
Dining: Champagne buffet breakfast Distance from ferry: 0.2 miles 5 Spring St. 401-466-2421; blockislandresorts.com
The National Hotel
Number of rooms: 45 Room types: Double, ocean or island view twin or queen, queen/double, queen superior, skylight deluxe, ocean or island view suite, Old Harbor suite Amenities: Recently renovated; rooms feature private baths, televisions and telephones; includes a wrap-around porch Dining: Tap & Grille Steak House (seafood and steak) Distance from Ferry: 0.2 mile Water St. 800-225-2449, 401-466-2901, blockislandhotels.com
Photography: Stacey Doyle
The Gothic Inn
lobby (L) and bar (below)
Accommodations
CONTINUED
A cottage bedroom at the Spring House
Distance from ferry: 0.4 mile Spring St. 401-466-2257, seabreezeblockisland.com
Spring House Hotel
The National Hotel
Photography: (top) Stacey Doyle
Sea Breeze Inn
Number of rooms: 10 Room types: Two bedrooms with one shared bath and a sitting room, or five rooms with private entrances and private baths, some with porches. Amenities: Daily room cleaning, beach towels, bike rentals, racks, helmets, locks, island maps, menus, trail books, hairdryers, irons available on request, small guest refrigerator, outdoor shower Dining: Freshly baked pastries, organic yogurts, seasonal fruit, locally roasted organic fair trade coffee
Number of rooms: 33, plus four cottages Room types: Standard, studio suite, suite, double, deluxe suite Amenities: All rooms have private bath, ceiling fan and flat-screen TV Dining: Fine dining in Dining Room; casual fare in Veranda Café; coffee, dessert and cocktails in Victoria’s Parlor Distance from ferry: 0.4 mile Spring St. 401-466-5844, springhousehotel.com
Surf Hotel
Number of rooms: 35 Room types: Single, double, double plus single bed, one handicapped with bathroom Amenities: Wash basin in every room; HDTV, giant chess set and library in lobby Dining: Breakfast, lunch and dinner in dining room or outside on deck; cocktails in the indoor and outdoor bars (with entertainment) Distance from ferry: 0.1 mile 32 Dodge St. 401-466-2241, thesurfhotelbi.com
Enjoy a cocktail at the Spring House’s beautiful veranda bar
Other Resources
HOUSE RENTALS Ballard Hall Real Estate 401-466-8883, blockislandproperty.com Beach Real Estate 401-466-2312, bibeachrealestate.com Lila Delman Real Estate 401-789-6666, liladelman.com VISITOR INFORMATION Block Island Accommodations 401-466-2912, blockislandbedandbreakfast.com Block Island Chamber of Commerce 800-383-BIRI (2474) blockislandchamber.com/visitor-info/ accommodations Block Island Reservations Water St. 401-466-2605, blockislandreservations.com SO Block Island
| 11
Dining Guide Enjoy the flavors of Block Island CASUAL DINING
ALDO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA Family business serving traditional Italian favorites for over 30 years. Chapel St. 401-466-5871, aldosrestaurantblockisland. com L D $$-$$$ THE BEACHEAD Fresh seafood classics served on a great wraparound porch across from Crescent Beach. Corn Neck Rd. 401466-2249, thebeachead.com L D $$ BETHANY’S AIRPORT DINER Hidden treasure serving hearty, diner-style breakfast and lunch fare. Block Island State Airport, Center Rd. 401-466-3100 B L $ FINN’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Fresh, classic preparations of seafood from the restaurant’s own in-house fish market. Water St. 401466-2473, finnsseafood.com L D $$ MEXICAN ON THE DECK Mexican favorites with a seafood twist on the deck at McGovern’s Yellow Kittens. Corn Neck Rd. at Ocean Ave. 401-466-5855, mexicanonthedeck.net L D $$ MOHEGAN CAFÉ Block Island’s only brewpub, offering locally brewed beer to complement seafood, sandwiches and more. Water St. 401-466-5911, moheganbi.com L D $$
REBECCA’S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT A convenient first (or last) stop for classic diner and shore fare, just steps from the ferry landing. Water St. at the Old Harbor Ferry Landing. 401-466-5411 B L D $-$$
UPSCALE DINING
DEAD EYE DICK’S Fresh, local seafood and raw bar with creative cocktails and a great selection of wines and craft brews. Ocean Ave. (at Payne’s Dock). 401-466-2654, dead- eyedicksbi.com L D $$-$$$ ELI’S Fine dining and seafood with lots of vegetarian options and famous desserts. Chapel St. 401-466-5230, elisblockisland. com D $$$ WINFIELD’S Haute New American cuisine with French, Italian and Asian influences, and a great wine list. Corn Neck Rd. 401-466-5856, winfieldsrestaurant. net D $$$
HOTEL DINING
1661 INN Famous brunch buffet with complimentary champagne, offering a taste of New England. Spring Street. 401-4662421, blockislandresorts.com Br $$
ATLANTIC INN RESTAURANT Local seafood and homegrown vegetables with award-winning wine list in an elegant setting. High St. 800-224-7422, atlanticinn.com D $$$ BALLARD’S INN Great seafood and casual fare, with cocktail service directly to the beach. Water St. 401-466-2231, ballardsinn. com L D $$ HOTEL MANISSES Eclectic, upscale meat and seafood dishes in a romantic atmosphere. Spring Street. 401-466-2421, blockislandresorts.com D $$$ NARRAGANSETT INN Creative seafood and meats, plus house-made pastas, with dramatic sunset views. Ocean Ave. 401-466-2626, narragansettinn.net B D $$$ SPRING HOUSE HOTEL Upscale cuisine in the Dining Room, casual fare in the Veranda Café and dessert and cocktails in Victoria’s Parlor. Spring St. 401-466-5844 springhousehotel.com L D $$$ THE TAP & GRILLE Block Island’s only steakhouse, located in the National Hotel with great views of the harbor. Water St. 401-4662901, nationalri.com/tapandgrille B L D $$$$$
THE OAR Casual fare, including famous chowder and a full sushi bar, with a view of Great Salt Pond. Jobs Hill Rd. 401-466-8820, blockislandresorts.com L D $-$$ PAPA’S PIZZERIA Quick, casual pizza, sandwiches, wraps and salads. Corn Neck Rd. 401466-9939 L D $ POOR PEOPLE’S PUB Creative pub fare and daily specials with a relaxed, friendly vibe. Ocean Ave. 401-466-8533, poorpeoplespub. com L D $$
Key Full Bar
12 |
SO Block Island
Dine al fresco at the Spring House
B breakfast Br brunch L lunch D dinner $ under 10 $$ 10–20 $$$ 20+
Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating
Open Late
Family Friendly
Live Entertainment
T
JAZZ F
ES
NE
TIVAL
WP OR
FOR PRINT
®
ES
T. 195
4
7.625x4.875_1.indd 1
4/28/14 3:37 PM
Hotel Manisses, Circa 1880
Touches of the past... the comforts of today. Come enjoy old-fashioned hospitality, timeless ocean views, comfortable rooms, and enjoyable dining. We’re close to town, but pleasantly removed from the hubbub.
The 1661 Inn & Hotel Manisses Open year-round • Dining in-season • 401-466-2421 • blockislandresorts.com
SO Block Island
| 13
d Ol
To
w n Rd.
Chapel St.
B.I. Historical Society
Ocean Ave .
Corn Nec Rd. k
. St
Library
Do B.I. Free
e dg
Animal Farm
Post Office
Visitor’s Center
Ferry Docks
Old Harbor Shopping Area
Ferry Route
Dirt roads
Paved roads
mansIon Beach Big surf, small crowds; access to Clay Head Trail
fRed Benson toWn Beach Popular beach for families; features bathrooms, snack bar and other amenities
Middle Pond
Sachem Pond
The Maze
Clay Head
North Light
southeast lIghthouse Operational lighthouse with small museum and gift shop
Rodman’s holloW Land conservation area with hiking rails and rare wildlife
old haRBoR Point of arrival from Pt. Judith/Newport; bustling town center with restaurants, shops and hotels
noRth lIght Operational lighthouse accessible only by foot
neW haRBoR Plenty of marina space for boaters; lots of restaurants, bars and hotels
B.I. National Wildlife Refuge
doRIes and gRace’s coves Pebbly beaches; beautiful sunset views
clay head/the maze Great area for hiking
chaRlestoWn Beach Better for hiking/walking than a beach day
champlIn’s maRIna Features a hotel, dockside bar and more
St .
mohegan Bluffs Iconic 150’ clay cliffs with steep staircase leading down to beach
Co r
Mansion Beach
e out yR
Block Island natIonal WIldlIfe Refuge 133 acres, popular spot for bird watching
n’s do el W ay W Hig h
Rd . ck nN e
r Fer on ond wL Ne
Black Rock Beach Good spot for surfing
BLOCK ISLAND MAP
t Po in
rry Ro u Fe ith
St.
Ju d
2 Folio
ter Wa
g St. Sprin
te
Dories Cove
u
t
Side. Rd.
es W
Grace’s Cove
te
Black Rock Beach
.
Twins Pond
Harbor
Mohegan Trail
Fresh Pond
Southeast Lighthouse
or
Mohegan Bluffs
Medical Center
Old Harbor Shopping Area
Old Harbor
Fred Benson Town Beach
Oce Pond an Ave .
Old Town Rd.
Block Island Airport
d. rR
Rodman’s Hollow
u eym s Rd. Coon
Beacon Hill
Skate Park/ Playground
Champlin’s Marina
(Great Salt Pond)
Rd. We st Side
Cormorant Cove
New Harbor
Cen
nta
.
Mo
r Rd
e Dr.
ac Be
o
.A ve
te Cen
Lakesid
ck Rd hA ve .
e Corn N Co nn
yR
St.
err kF
te r
yR ou ive rF er R tFa ll Ne wp
Charlestown Beach
So
ut he a
ute
. St
st Rd .
Sp g
High
rin
Folio 3
Moped & Bike RENTALS lore Block island p x e
at your own pace!
MopedS $10 off
2 Hours or More*
New England’s Award-Winning
Premier Eco Spa Koru Eco Spa is dedicated to providing you with a holistic spa experience to improve your mental and physical health in a nontoxic and 100% good-for-you environment. facebook.com/KoruBI twitter: @koruecospa
eco
BikeS $5 off
Half/full day* *cannot be combined with any other coupons
130 Chapel Street • 401-466-5018 Come Home To
Block Island
spa
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.
blockislandproperty.com Gail P. Ballard Hall, Principal Broker 401.466.8883 Corner of Ocean Avenue & Corn Neck Road 16 |
SO Block Island
Summer Calendar Make the most out of your trip with these fun events
ALL SUMMER The Block Island Glass Float Project consists of 550 glass floats (glass orbs about the size of a grapefruit) that are hidden around the island. One super special float is made entirely out of gold leaf. Finder’s keepers, but one per person, please. blockislandinfo.com/glass-float-project
JUNE MAY 30-JUNE 1: A $5 button gets you delicious food samples and exclusive shopping discounts at participating restaurants and merchants during the Taste of Block Island. 800-383-2474, tasteofbi.com
JULY 4: Block Island 4th of July Parade
JUNE 10-15: Rock out to six days of the free Block Island Music Festival, featuring music by the best “undiscovered” musicians in the northeast. Captain Nick’s Rock n’ Roll Bar, 34 Ocean Ave. 401-466-5670, blockislandmusic.com
JUNE 20-21: Live every day like it’s Shark Week during Block Island Sharkfest, a two-day fishing tournament. Block Island Boat Basin. 860-739-7419, jbtackle.com
and join the celebration at the Block Island 4th of July Parade, which begins at 11am. Begins at New Harbor and ends in the Old Harbor. blockislandchamber.com
JUNE 16-22: Enjoy three-course prix-fixe meals and specials at exceptional prices at over 17 participating restaurants during Block Island Restaurant Week. blockislandchamber.com
JUNE 23-27: Attend or participate in Block Island Race Week XXVI and enjoy the beauty as sailboats race around the island. Block Island Boat Basin. 203-4583295, blockislandraceweek.org
JULY 4: Head over to Firebarn for the Fire Department Steak Fry to enjoy a delicious cookout after the parade. Beach Ave. 800383-2474, blockislandchamber.com
ISLAND TRIVIA
The statue of Rebecca at the Well was erected by the Women’s Christian Temperance Movement, but a close look at the modern day statue (a faithful replica of the original) and her grapes and amphora hint that the late-1800s statue supply company may have mixed up the biblical figure with a more wine-friendly Greek goddess, Hebe.
JULy JULY 3: Watch the Block Island Fireworks from the beach at dusk in honor of the Independence Day. Crescent Beach. blockislandchamber.com JULY 3: Or, pair your fireworks with a picnic in front of the beautiful Sullivan House at the second annual Fireworks Picnic. Corn Neck Rd. 401-466-5020, cgspblockisland.org JULY 4: Stroll along with friends and family
JULY 6: The Block Island Arts & Crafts Fair features jewelry, knitted items, paintings and more created by local artists and craftspeople. Block Island Historical Society Lawn, Old Town Rd. blockislandchamber.com JULY 9, 23: Grab your beach chairs and blankets for the Blues on the Block concerts. Fred Benson Town Beach JULY 13: Start planning the perfect wedding at the 5th Annual Block Island Wedding Show. The Sullivan House, Corn Neck Rd. 401-659-6059, blockislandweddingshow.com SO Block Island
| 17
Summer Calendar
CONTINUED
JULY 16: Renowned organist Walter Hilse performs as part of the free Block Island Summer Concert Series. Harbor Baptist Church, Water St. bisummerseries@gmail.com JULY 23: Virtuoso Ian Ethan Case brings his double acoustic guitar to the free Block Island Summer Concert Series. St. Andrews Parish Center, Spring St. bisummerseries@gmail.com
AUGUST AUGUST 2: The annual Block Island Triathlon begins with a 1/4-mile swim, followed by a 12-mile bike and concludes with a four-mile run on Block Island’s East Beaches. Fred Benson Town Beach, Corn Neck Rd. 401-466-7717, blockislandchamber.com. AUGUST 3-6: The Tri State Canyon Shootout is one of the premier fishing tournaments in the Northeast, departing from the Block Island Boat Basin. 860-739-7419, jbtackle.com AUGUST 3-17: Spend the day at the Block Island Artist Guild Fair and browse items by local artists, photographers, weavers, ceramists and candle-makers. Block Island Historical Society Lawn, Old Town Rd. 401466-2481, blockislandferry.com/events-2 AUGUST 6: World class classical pianist Martin Soderberg makes his island debut
ISLAND TRIVIA
Riptides at Cow Cove once carried a dog miles offshore in a matter of minutes. He was, incredibly, rescued by a fishing boat, but legend says earlier generations of surfcasters were not so lucky. 18 |
SO Block Island
AUGUST 2: Block Island Triathlon
at the free Block Island Summer Concert Series. St. Andrews Parish Center, Spring St. bisummerseries@gmail.com AUGUST 6: The music continues in August with another installment of Blues on the Block. Bring your chair and enjoy. Fred Benson Town Beach
AUGUST 25-29: Sign up the kids for BI Surf Camp where they can learn the basics of catching waves. 800-383-2474, blockislandchamber.com.
SEpTEMbER
AUGUST 20: Soprano vocalist Megan Bisceglia performs at the free Block Island Summer Concert Series. St. Andrews Parish Center, Spring St. bisummerseries@ gmail.com
SEPTEMBER 3: Jazz-fusion trio Kyoshii performs at the free Block Island Summer Concert Series. St. Andrews Parish Center, Spring St. bisummerseries@gmail.com
AUGUST 25-26: Head over to the Block Island Schooner Rendezvous and check out all of the ships, such as the Mystic Whaler, which will serve as flagship for the event. Paynes Dock, Great Salt Pond, 133 Ocean Ave. 401-466-5572, blockislandschoonerrendezvous.net
SEPTEMBER 6: Participate in the 39th annual 15K Run Around the Block, a twoloop course with plenty of water stops along the way. Starts at Fresh Pond on Center Rd., ends at Champlin’s Marina in New Harbor. 401-466-5001, blockislandchamber.com
Summer Calendar
Fantastic selection of dresses, sundresses, handbags & jewelry
CONTINUED Where fashion is always in full bloom
Vera Bradley • Jo Jo loves you • Miss me 401.466.2006 • 41 Water St, Block Island wildflowersblockisland@gmail.com Fudge • Candy • Handmade Chocolates • Taffy • Wedding Favors
Buy 1 lb of fudge & get an additional 1/4 lb FREE
“the sweet taste of summer”
Blocks of Fudge FUDGE 459 Chapel St. • P.O. Box 930 • Block Island, RI 02807
See More Of Block Island With
TAXI
SEPTEMBER 26-28: The Taste of Block Island
SEPTEMBER 8-15: Attendees of the 20th Annual East Side Art Center Workshop will have the opportunity to work with a professional painter while visiting Block Island’s most beautiful scenery. Summer Hill, Connecticut Ave. 401-331-2021, eastsideartcenter.com. SEPTEMBER 12-14: Fish all weekend and win prizes at the Block Island Inshore Fishing Tournament. Check in and register at Block Island Fishworks on Ocean Avenue or Twin Maples on Beach Avenue. 401-466-5392, bifishworks.com SEPTEMBER 26-28: The Taste of Block Island returns to wrap up the summer. As always, a $5 button gets you delicious food samples and exclusive shopping discounts. 800-383-2474, tasteofbi.com
PROMPT RELIABLE SERVICE COMFORTABLE AIR-CONDITIONED VAN ISLAND TOURS • WEDDING TRANSPORTATION • BIKE RACK
(401) 480-0493 • MIGSRIGTAXI.COM
Experience the Best Block Island Has To Offer Your button is your passport to savings and events. Buy them at the Chamber Office in Old Harbor.
ISLAND TRIVIA
before the Old Harbor breakwater opened it up to tourism in 1872, block Island was a farming and fishing community known for its excellent produce (the secret: Seaweed mulch) and “double-ender” small fishing sailboats that could be pulled up on shore.
MIG’S RIG
Buttons Just $5 Two Great Events For Spring & Fall
www.tasteofbi.com 800.383.2474 • 401.466.2474 SO Block Island
| 19
Aldo’s ItAlIAn seAfood RestAuRAnt
Sunset lounge overlooking Great Salt Pond
PAstA & seAfood • PIzzA • sAndwIcHes sAlAds • full BAR (Specialty MartiniS) cAteRIng & PARty tRAys
open 7 days A week
take-out Patio seating
In the Heart of old Harbor Weldon’s Way • 401-466-5871
www.aldosrestaurantblockisland.com
Sunset Restaurant Lounge at The Narragansett Inn Available for private functions, weddings, birthday parties, anniversaries, etc.
Poor PeoPle's Pub Frosty Brews • Outdoor Seating Sunday REHAB Brunch Burgers • BBQ • Pizza • Seafood and so much more… 401-466-8533 • 33 Ocean Avenue www.pppbi.com Located across from the Block Island Grocery
Follow Us On Facebook For Upcoming Events Specials & Live Music
www.facebook.com/PPPBIFB
20 |
SO Block Island
Inside dining room, Outside dining on our porch. Please call for reservations!
The
Narragansett
Inn
1 Ocean Avenue, Block Island 401-466-2626
www.narragansettinn.net
Water Street Block Island’s bustling town center by Pippa Jack
WHERE TO FIND: Aldo’s 401-466-2198, aldosbakery.com Block Island Trading Company Water St., at the National Hotel. 401-8591524, blockislandtradingcompany.com Bonnie & Clyde Water St. 401-466-8895 Building Blocks and Star Department Store Water St. 401-466-5541 Eli’s Chapel St. 401-466-5883, elisblockisland.com Empire Theatre Water St. 401-466-2555 Please finish your ice cream before riding so you can use both hands to steer your moped
Froozies Dodge St. 401-466-2230, frooziesblockisland.com
Photography: (top) Marylou Butler, (bottom) Tiffany Medrano
Most visitors arrive here first, fresh
off the ferries from Point Judith, Newport and New London, and a Visitor’s Center near the docks offers bathrooms, maps, help with last-minute lodging and other friendly guidance. Finn’s Seafood, a classic shore dinner hall, is still the best spot for raw bar and lobster dinners; it also boasts a small fish market with outstanding fresh offerings, and a takeout window for that last lobster roll before you board the ferry home. Walk up to Water Street proper, and bicycle and moped rental businesses line the strip alongside small shops and cafés. Just past the statue of Rebecca (a landmark erected in 1896 by the Women’s Christian Temperance Movement at the intersection of Water, Spring and High Streets), the post office building also houses Island Bound Bookstore (you know you don’t want to risk your Kindle on the beach) and Jessie Edwards art studio. Beyond that are upscale dining destinations the Hotel Manisses and Spring House Hotel. Back in town, grab lunch to go, like solid, well-priced diner food from Rebecca’s takeout or excellent breakfast burritos, falafel, grilled cheese and smoothies at Froozies, tucked away on the back porch of the National Hotel; or escape the heat at Mohegan Café, a brewpub with air conditioning. Don’t forget to
Finn’s Seafood Water St. 401- 466-2473, finnsseafood.com
Glass Onion Water St. 401-466-5161, glassonionblockisland.com Golddiggers Chapel St. 401-466-2611 Hotel Manisses Spring St. 401- 466-2421, blockislandresorts.com The Ice Cream Place Weldon’s Way. 401-466-2145 Island Bound Bookstore Water St. 401-466-8878, islandboundbookstore.com Dine at the Hotel Manisses
check out the billboard of the historic Empire Theatre to see what’s playing. Fashionistas will delight in The Wave and Bonnie & Clyde; kids will love Building Blocks and Star Department Store; interior designer types will find much to tempt at Glass Onion, Photo Dog and Block Island Trading Company. Venture down Chapel Street to find original island-themed jewelry designs at Golddiggers; opposite is tiny fine-dining hot spot Eli’s. On Weldon’s Way, The Ice Cream Place and Aldo’s vie for best ice-cream.
Jessie Edwards Water St., 2nd flr. 401-466-5314, jessieedwardsgallery.com Mohegan Café Water St. 401-466-5911, moheganbi.com Photo Dog Water St. 401-466-5858 Rebecca’s Water St. 401-466-5411 Spring House Hotel Spring St. 401-466-5844, springhousehotel.com The Wave Water St. 401-466-8822
SO Block Island
| 21
SALE: 50% Off
Our sterling and gemstOne ClearanCe
all below cost!
rings • braCelets • earrings
“One of ten places not to miss on Block Island”
– New England Tourism Council
Original Block Island Jewelry Gifts, Nautical Items Bridal Gifts, Engagement Rings
Gia Graduate Gemologist AGS Registered Jeweler
90 Chapel Street, Block Island • 466-2611 blockislandgolddiggers.com
Bloc
k
I R I sland,
226 Water Street 401-466-5254
www.fishtheworld.us
available at
226 Water Street, Block Island 401.466.5254 22 |
SO Block Island
New Harbor Dine and drink on the shores of Salt Pond by Pippa Jack
WHERE TO FIND: Block Island Maritime Institute Ocean Ave. 401-466-7938, bimaritime.org Boat Basin Jobs Hill Rd. 401-466-2631, blockislandboatbasin.net Champlin’s Marina West Side Rd. 401-466-7777, champlinsresort.com Dead Eye Dick’s Ocean Ave. 401-466-2654, deadeyedicksbi.com The Narragansett Inn Ocean Ave. 401-466-2626, narragansettinn.net The Oar Jobs Hill Rd. 401-466-8820 Oceanwest Theater West Side Rd. 401-466-2971 Payne’s Dock Ocean Ave. 401-466-5572
Photography: (top & left) Tiffany Medrano, (right) Stephanie Izzo
Payne’s Donuts Ocean Ave. 401-466-5758 Champlin’s Resort
restaurants and hotels lining the southern shore of the island’s pristine Great Salt Pond is a 20-minute walk (or five-minute cab ride) up Ocean Avenue from Old Harbor, where the ferry arrives. Three marinas organize the layout. First comes Payne’s Dock, where a cluster of attractions includes the Block Island Maritime Institute’s sea-life touch tanks, a sure winner with kids or anyone who wants to see how fast a scallop can move (you’ll jump!) when a crab gets too close. The tanks are on the edge of the pond, right behind a building that houses the irresistible Payne’s Donuts. Next comes Dead Eye Dick’s, an old island favorite that’s recently upped its game (think updated classics like Nicoise salad and truffled
Burger Bar at Payne’s Dock Ocean Ave. 401-466-5572
This cluster of bars,
Trader Vic’s West Side Rd. The Oar
lobster fettuccini). The Narragansett Inn is a lovely Victorian that’s the only historic hotel still run by the family that built it, and features a gracious porch with outstanding views of the pond at sunset, plus cocktails and wellexecuted seafood standards. Ocean Avenue turns into wooden docks after that, where you can grab a good burger at The Burger Bar at Payne’s Dock or sip that island classic, a frozen Mudslide, while listening to local favorite Walter McDonough play Irish tunes
at Mahogany Shoals, a small shack built over the water and surrounded by million-dollar yachts that provide opportunities for ogling. Go up West Side Road and the Boat Basin marina beckons down a short road, including a small marine shop and great sushi and fried chicken at The Oar. The next right leads to the large Champlin’s Marina, with a suite of amenities including Oceanwest Theater, small boat rentals, a pool for guests complete with tiki bar and restaurant, and Trader Vic’s, another bar built out over the docks, with a breezy second-floor patio. SO Block Island
| 23
Dodge Street & Corn Neck Road Hang out where the locals do by Pippa Jack
WHERE TO FIND: The Beachead Corn Neck Rd. 401-466-2249, thebeachead.com Bird’s Nest Dodge St. 401-466-5080 Block Island Historical Society Old Town Rd. 401-864-4357 Captain Nick’s Rock ‘n Roll Bar Ocean Ave. 401-466-5670, captainnicks.com Diamondblue Surf and Kiteboarding Dodge St. 401-466-3145, diamondbluebi.com Kimberly’s Own Ocean Ave. 401-466-8600
Dodge right at the Surf Hotel, which re-opened last year after a five-year hiatus. It offers food, cocktails and amazing views from its back deck. Opposite is the Island Free Library, the best (and almost the only) rainy day activity for kids. It boasts a treasure trove of books and other activities aimed at younger readers, as well as plenty to keep adults happy, including a well-stocked periodicals room. Bird’s Nest and Watercolors are next; both charm with eclectic home goods. A little further down lie Red Bird Liquor Store, which keeps up with the times with pre-mixed cocktail options and a small but well curated selection of wines; and Juice ’n Java coffee shop, which does the same with pay-as-you-go wifi, Hawaiian shaved ice and to-die-for fresh smoked bluefish. At Bridgegate Square sit two icons of modern-day Block Island: on one corner, Diamondblue Surf and Kiteboarding, with beginner-friendly stand-up paddleboarding lessons as well as surf and kiteboard rentals; and kitty-corner across from it, the Block Island Historical Society, an approachable window into the island’s unique past stuffed with fascinating curios
Water Street curves into
24 |
SO Block Island
and attended by friendly and knowledgeable staff. This intersection marks one corner of the island’s Bermuda Triangle of late-night fun. Captain Nick’s Rock ‘n Roll Bar and Poor People’s Pub lie straight ahead up Ocean Avenue (think sushi and live bands at one, good pub grub and outdoor patio at the other), while to the right, McGovern’s Yellow Kittens Tavern and The Old Island Pub offer live music and frozen drinks vs. pool tables and a locals scene. If you’re more about the food than the Mudslides, be sure to check out Winfield’s on the Neck for fine dining, and the freedom to finish that nice bottle of wine on the deck of Kittens next door. Just around the curve from the bars, where Corn Neck settles into a straight and sand-duney aspect, lies The Beachead restaurant, with consistently executed, straightforward but never dull fare that, admirably, does not trade on the restaurant’s amazing surfside location. Come here to catch a breeze on the hottest days, and come back during a fall hurricane to sit at the bar and watch the waves wash right up on the road outside.
Island Free Library Dodge St. 401-466-3233, islandfreelibrary.org Juice ’n Java Dodge St. 401-466-5220 Marye-Kelley Dodge St. 401-466-8833 McGovern’s Yellow Kittens Tavern Corn Neck Rd. 401-466-5855, mcgovernsyellowkittens.com Old Island Pub Corn Neck Rd. 401-466-2400 Poor People’s Pub Ocean Ave. 401-466- 8533, pppbi.com Red Bird Liquor Store Dodge St. 401-466-2441 Surf Hotel Dodge St. 401-466- 2241 Watercolors Dodge St. 401-466-4538 Winfield’s Corn Neck Rd. 401-466-5856, winfieldsrestaurant.net
Photography: Marylou Butler
The Poor People’s Pub
Seaside Fun & Shopping
Beautiful jewelry, gifts & clothing
Boards, Rentals, Lessons, Clothing & More! Diamondblue Surf Shop
Water Colors
442 Dodge St. | 401.466.3145 www.diamondbluebi.com
Dodge Street | (401) 466-2538
The Bird is the word for Barbecues on Block Island Come in and see our wide selection of wines for any occasion. Or, let us order exactly what you want.
The Red Bird Liquor Store Fine Wines • Beers • Liquor • Kegs soda • Cigarettes & Cigars
Beachcomber
(401) 466-2777 • 64 Dodge Street, Block Island
(401) 466-2441 Monday-Thursday: 9am-9pm Friday-Saturday: 9am-10pm • Sunday: 10am-6pm
Hit the Beach Because you didn’t come here to stay on land all day by Pippa Jack
Unrivalled and un-mucked
about with, Block Island’s 17 miles of white sand harken back to an era before ticket machines and acres of blacktop became ubiquitous beachgoing experiences. All are open to the public, and small campfires may be permitted (licenses available at the Police Station). Parking is free, and spacious expanses offer plenty of room, but amenities are few, lifeguards are fewer, and if you want to escape the crowds on a busy July or August weekend, you’ll have to hike a little. It’ll be worth it, we promise.
Ballard’s Beach
Crescent Beach & Beyond
This two-mile arc of sand is one of the first things visitors see from the decks of the ferries that pull into Old Harbor, and its southern base is just a five-minute walk from the downtown docks. Go north, and you’ll discover:
Surf Hotel BeacH College-age revelers invade on July Fourth, but otherwise this quiet, seaweedy spot below the iconic gingerbread-style hotel from which the beach takes its name 2 |Folio 26 SO Block Island
Baby Beach
draws snorkelers to explore the eelgrass beds, lobster burrows, and the tautog that haunt the big rocks just offshore; novice surfers flock to a small break to the north.
BaBy BeacH A short path from Corn Neck Road parking (look for two posts near the intersection with Beach Avenue) and gentle surf make this a popular spot for local families with young children.
fred BenSon town BeacH Two sandy parking lots off “The Neck” of the island flank a beach pavilion that features lifeguards, bathrooms, showers, and a snack bar with burgers and fries at lunch and the best deal in town for basic breakfast sandwiches. Umbrella and beach chair rentals and soft-serve ice cream make this the quintessential family beach destination.
Road. Locals set up a volleyball net every summer for hotly contested tourneys, skimboarders work the waterline, and for teens and 20-somethings, this is see-and-be-seen central. To the north, crowds thin rapidly as rocks and surfcasters dot the shoreline.
ScotcH BeacH
ManSion BeacH
Don’t count on finding space in the small parking lot, but posts mark other access points from parking alongside Corn Neck
Park among the overgrown ruins of the Searles Ball mansion and hike down to find the biggest surf and the smallest
Mohegan Bluffs
Photography: (Top) Jeanette St. Pierre, (Bottom) Alli Coate
Walk off the ferry, turn left, and some visitors never get any further. Why? Ballard’s broad beach sits directly south of Old Harbor’s long eastern breakwater (great for exploring), so charter fishing boats and watersport rides offer plenty to see and do on the adjacent docks. To the south, there’s a path up to the Ocean View Nature Pavilion. Volleyball nets and picnic tables amp up the party atmosphere. This is the only beach on Block Island where it’s legal to drink alcohol, and the adjacent Ballard’s Inn makes the most of it with a tiki bar, outdoor music on weekends, and servers who keep the beer and daiquiris flowing right to your beach towel.
Hit the Beach crowds of all the Crescent beaches. To the north, surfers swarm Jerry’s Point, and a rocky hike around Pots and Kettles Point will bring you to the unmarked beachside access for Clay Head Nature Trail, a premier hiking area.
Southern & Western Beaches
Harder to find and often rockier or rougher than Crescent, Block Island’s less-wellknown beaches offer a chance to get away. Excellent fishing draws surfcasters, spearfishers and charter boats offshore; cell reception may be spotty. Plan to bring all your snacks and drinks in (and out – there are no public waste bins). Watch for riptides.
MoHegan BluffS
Photos: Ellie Goldberg
Near the Southeast Light, a small parking lot, stunning cliff-side views and an infamous 250-step staircase greet visitors to one of the island’s best known landmarks.
CONTINUED
The physically fit are rewarded with a sandy south-facing cove and big swells. Hike to the west around a rocky outcropping and you’ll find remote Vaill Beach, where you may have the small curve of sand entirely to yourself. A little further west, Black Rock lies offshore, marking a favorite surfing spot. You can also access this area along a narrow, rocky hike from Snake Hole Road, but arrive early to bag one of a handful of parking spaces. Don’t climb on or get too close to the bluffs, which are not stable.
dorieS & grace’S coveS Pebbly west-facing beaches reached by eponymously named dirt roads are lined with big private homes and are perfect for sunset gazers.
cHarleStown BeacH & tHe cut Venture down Champlin Road to a small
parking lot near the landmark decommissioned Coast Guard Station to be rewarded with three distinct options. Ahead lies the beach at “The Cut” into the Great Salt Pond, a wonderful spot for birdwatching, picnicking and watching yachts sail by. On the ocean side, Charlestown Beach offers undisturbed hiking along its sandy length. On the pond side, quiet Cormorant Cove is a great space for beginner swimmers and, in season (check at Town Hall), clammers.
weSt BeacH Past the town’s Transfer Station, eroding dunes reveal the weathered refuse of the recent past (think a whole, rust-covered car), when this area was the site of a landfill. Further north, a long, quiet strip of beach may be marked off with piping plover fences; a few private homes give way to the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge and its thousands of shore birds. Up at the island’s northernmost tip lie historic North Light, Cow Cove and the Settlers’ Rock memorial to the island’s first white settlers, also accessible from the northern tip of Corn Neck Road; signs warn of dangerous riptides.
The beautiful coastline boasts many Ballard’s Beach
places to take in the sun and the sand
Folio SO Block Island | 273
For Summer & Fall 2014 Packages Visit www.blockislandinfo.com
Win a Block Island Getaway Register online !
800-383-2474 • www.blockislandinfo.com
@blockislandinfo
/blockislandtourism
Tourism Council
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Ocean View Rooms
&
Beachside Bar Private beach Kid friendly 401.466.2241 • surfhotelbi@gmail.com • www.thesurfhotelbi.com PO Box C, Dodge Street, Block Island, RI 02807 28 |
SO Block Island
Get Moving Outdoor activities by land and by sea by Pippa Jack
WHERE TO FIND: Block Island Fishworks Ocean Ave. 401-466-5392, bifishworks.com BI Parasail and Watersports Old Harbor Dock 401-864-2474, blockislandparasail.com Champlin’s West Side Rd. 401-466-7777, champlinsresort.com Diamondblue Dodge St. 401-466-3145, diamondbluebi.com
Parasailing, kayaking and charter fishing are all popular activities on the island
their own bicycles over on the ferry (or rent) for an inexpensive and active way to see the island. At ten square miles, even the biggest of the island’s hills is over quickly. (Although rusty cyclists – we feel your pain – might want to make sure they’ll be going downhill when they hit Airport Hill.) There are, of course, many ways to take advantage of the ocean all around. Pond and Beyond offers kayak rentals in New Harbor, including nature lessons and special child-friendly outings led by knowledgeable owner (and mom) Corrie Heinz. BI Parasail and Watersports will hoist you aloft for a solo or tandem ride of surprising peacefulness (foot dips in the ocean are optional) or challenge your ability to hang on with a wild banana boat ride. Charter fishing boats – like Hula Girl and G. Willie Makit – will take you onshore for blues and stripers, or offshore for shark and tuna. Go for spectacular seaside horseback rides with Rustic Rides Farm; attempt board lessons of all kinds with the folks at Diamondblue; or, if you know how to sail, rent a Hobie Cat at Champlin’s and fly around the Great Salt Pond (pontoon boats are a more sedate alternative). Block Island Fishworks will sell
Photography: (top, bottom R) Tiffany Medrano, (center) Alli Coate
Many people bring
G. Willie Makit 401-466-5151, gwilliecharters.com Hula Girl 401-263-3474, hulacharters.com Ian Kortbek Memorial Skate Park at Ball O’Brien Park West Side Rd. Pond and Beyond 401-578-2773, blockisland.com/kayakbi Rustic Rides Farm West Side Rd. 401-466-5060
you fishing tackle, arrange a charter or find you a guide for surfcasting, flyfishing and spearfishing lessons. Skate rats will love the Ian Kortbek Memorial Skate Park at Ball O’Brien Park on West Side Road, and their younger sibs will enjoy the playground and adjacent pebbly beach, great for hunting seashells and the arrowheads that Manisses Indians left alongside the Great Salt Pond. SO Block Island
| 29
See the Sights Experience and explore the island’s open spaces by Pippa Jack
WHERE TO FIND:
Perhaps the island’s best outdoorsy
30 |
SO Block Island
Abrams Animal Farm Spring St. 401-466-2421 Atlantic Inn High St. 401-466-5883, atlanticinn.com Audubon Society of RI 401-949-5454, asri.org Bethany’s Airport Diner 401-466-3100 Block Island Grocery Ocean Ave. 401-466-2949
Abrams Animal Farm
Airport Diner offers ample, home-style breakfast and lunch dishes. Kids will love the Abrams Animal Farm, tucked behind the Hotel Manisses, with its camels, lemurs, emus, ducks, kangaroos and fainting goats (they fall over when startled), plus free pellets to tempt the animals closer and a rare zeedonk (that’s a cross between a zebra and a donkey). Next door, see spinners at work at North Light Fibers textile mill, transforming fibers from the alpacas that roam nearby into lovely blankets, shawls and sweaters. Kids will also love morning nature hikes with The Nature Conservancy (mucking around in the pond), bird banding at Ocean View Pavilion, rainy day matinees at Empire Theatre, and the annual Glass Float Project, in which 550 hand-blown glass fishing floats are hidden around the beaches and Greenway Trails starting in May. If you find one, you get to keep it, but please, keep only one (honor system). Parents might hire a babysitter (check the message boards of Block Island Grocery on Ocean Avenue to find one) to see live music, go night-sky viewing with Ocean View or take a sunset wine-and cheese sail aboard the trimaran Ruling Passion.
BI Motoring Event blockislandchamber.com Block Island State Airport Center Rd. 401-466-5511 Empire Theatre Water St. 401-466-2555 Historical Society Old Town Rd. 401-864- 4357 Island Cemetery West Rd. Nature Conservancy High St. 401-466-2129, nature.org North Light Fibers Spring St. 401-466-2050, northlightfibers.com Ocean View Pavilion Water St. oceanviewfoundation.org Rodman’s Hollow Cooneymus Rd. Town Hall Old Town Rd. 401-466-3200 Ruling Passion 401-741-1926, rulingpassion.com
Photography: Julie Tremaine
attraction is that it boasts plenty of great areas for hikes, none particularly strenuous, plus more than 25 miles of protected Greenway Trails and related conservation areas. Maps are available at the Visitors Center or the Nature Conservancy. History lovers might start with the Island Cemetery (West Rd.) or the Historical Society’s annual House Tour (call for dates). The Labyrinth is a small, low maze mowed into a field on the North End of the island (look for a small marker) that is perfect for a contemplative stroll. Nearby, the Hodge Property offers a short hike through open meadows and stunning views to the west. Slightly more ambitious, the Clay Head Nature Trail (look for the post on Corn Neck Road just past Mansion Beach Road), aka The Maze, features winding paths through inland shrubs and past bluff-side vistas, and is big enough to actually get lost in, at least for a minute. Rodman’s Hollow, a sheltered basin off Cooneymus Road, offers crisscrossing trails, rare wildlife and rolling vistas that end at the southern bluffs. It serves as an enduring testament to the island’s tradition of land conservation, first born when neighbors came together to save the hollow from development. Other options for young, old and everyone in between: Visit Town Hall for a clamming license, then hit the clam flats at Andy’s Way. Get a cocktail and tapas on the Adirondack chair-strewn lawn of the gorgeous Atlantic Inn, then inquire at the front desk about borrowing the croquet set. Hook up with the Audubon Society of RI for tips on bird watching. Come to the fall BI Motoring Event for an eyeful of vintage automobiles. Hike a quarter mile up the beach from Corn Neck to see the North Light, or drive right up to the Southeast Lighthouse Museum, which lies inside the red-brick landmark that islanders moved 360 feet back from eroding cliffs in 1993. Watch the airplanes come in at Block Island State Airport, where single-prop two-seaters tie up on the green, thrilling amateur aviationists, and Bethany’s
Featured ProPerty Block Island | rI Rowan House | $10,500,000 | 401.466.8777 | liladel.re/RowanHouse
Visit our office at 61 DoDge street
Mohegan Trail - $1,895,000
Grace Cove - $990,000
off High - $1,050,000
iNterNatioNal marketiNg partNers Luxury Portfolio International
BloCk Island Newport
NarragaNsett
Christie’s International Real Estate
61 dodGe sTReeT provideNce
JamestowN
Mayfair International Realty
401.466.8777 watch hill
Block islaNd
The Atlantic Inn
&
Restaurant 1879
z T Relax and enjoy
U
T Sweeping views of the island and ocean U T Sunset tapas and cocktails U T Antique filled rooms U T
A specially prepared dinner, T dessert and after dinner drinks
Y
(401) 466-5883 www.atlanticinn.com