Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Block Island
Block Island offers miles of hiking trails, sandy beaches, and panoramic coastal views that make every visit unforgettable. The island is rich with colonial architecture, friendly locals, and locally owned restaurants serving fresh seafood. Visitors can explore by bike, moped, or on foot, soaking in the natural beauty along the way. It’s a tranquil retreat where you can slow down and reconnect with nature.
Where to look for an Airbnb in Block Island
Old Harbor
Old Harbor is the main arrival point for ferries and the island’s most active area, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and services. Vacation rentals in Old Harbor include classic inns, harbor-view apartments, and cozy Airbnbs above storefronts. It’s perfect for visitors who want to be near the water, dining, and island nightlife. Staying here offers convenience without sacrificing charm.
New Harbor / Great Salt Pond Area
The New Harbor Area, surrounding the Great Salt Pond, is a favorite for boaters and beach lovers. Rentals in New Harbor include waterfront homes, sailing-themed cottages, and modern villas with private docks. Guests enjoy stunning sunsets, water activities, and easy access to marinas and casual dining. This location is ideal for travelers seeking relaxation with a nautical flair.
Southeast Light Area
Near the iconic Southeast Lighthouse, this area features dramatic views of the Atlantic and beautiful walking trails along Mohegan Bluffs. Vacation homes in Southeast Light Area include spacious estates, coastal cottages, and hilltop retreats with sweeping ocean views. Nature enthusiasts and photographers will love this scenic location.
Corn Neck Road Area
Stretching north from Old Harbor, the Corn Neck Road Area is a peaceful strip of land bordered by beach and wildlife habitats. Vacation rentals in Cron Neck Road Area include beach bungalows, rustic cabins, and family homes with quick access to Mansion Beach and Clay Head Trail. This area provides a great blend of seclusion and beach access.
The West Side / Cooneymus Road
The West Side of the island near Cooneymus Road offers rural serenity and expansive views of the coastline and countryside. Rentals near Cooneymus Road include historic farmhouses, artist retreats, and eco-friendly homes nestled among meadows and stone walls. The area feels untouched and offers incredible sunset views.
What to do if you spend a vacation in Block Island
Mohegan Bluffs
The dramatic Mohegan Bluffs are one of Block Island’s most iconic natural attractions, offering towering cliffs and a hidden beach below. Visitors can descend a wooden staircase to reach the shoreline and enjoy stunning ocean views along the way. The area is perfect for photography, picnicking, and quiet contemplation.
Southeast Lighthouse
Perched atop the bluffs, the Southeast Lighthouse is a historic beacon offering guided tours and panoramic views of the Atlantic. Built in 1875, it’s a beautiful example of 19th-century architecture and maritime heritage. Guests can walk the grounds, visit the museum, and capture sweeping coastal vistas.
Mansion Beach
One of the island’s most pristine beaches, Mansion Beach is a favorite for swimmers, sunbathers, and those seeking a less crowded shoreline. Located off Corn Neck Road, the beach features soft sand, gentle waves, and a backdrop of natural dunes. There are no facilities, so visitors enjoy a more rustic, natural experience.
Clay Head Nature Trail
The Clay Head Nature Trail winds through meadows, woods, and coastal cliffs, offering some of the best hiking on the island. Birdwatchers, photographers, and casual hikers enjoy the mix of terrain and ocean views. The trail ends at “The Maze,” a network of paths that lead to secluded overlooks.
North Lighthouse and Sandy Point
Located at the northern tip of the island, the North Lighthouse sits near the quiet shores of Sandy Point. Visitors can hike across windswept dunes to reach this historic site and enjoy views of the Atlantic meeting Block Island Sound. The area is remote, wild, and incredibly beautiful.
Block Island Historical Society Museum
The Block Island Historical Society Museum tells the story of the island’s people, shipwrecks, and development over the centuries. Located in a former 19th-century inn, the museum includes exhibits, artifacts, and photographs that bring local history to life. Visitors can learn about lighthouses, fishing traditions, and early tourism.
Fred Benson Town Beach Pavilion
Popular and family-friendly, the Fred Benson Town Beach offers facilities, lifeguards, and soft sand within walking distance of Old Harbor. The beach has showers, a snack bar, and equipment rentals, making it a convenient spot for a full beach day. This is the most accessible beach for short-term travelers.
Block Island National Wildlife Refuge
Covering the island’s northern tip, the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary for migratory birds, dunes, and rare plants. Visitors can hike the scenic trails, watch for seabirds, and enjoy peaceful views of the water. The refuge is a highlight for eco-conscious travelers.
Where to find a vacation rental near Block Island
Newport, Rhode Island
About two hours away by car and ferry, Newport is featured in the document and offers a sophisticated escape with its historic mansions, yacht-lined harbor, and scenic Cliff Walk. After exploring the Breakers or sailing the bay, unwind in a vacation rental in Newport that blends coastal luxury with walkable charm. Newport adds a layer of elegance to Block Island’s serene seascapes.
Narragansett, Rhode Island
Located on the mainland and listed in the document, Narragansett offers wide beaches, lively surf culture, and direct ferry access to Block Island. Whether strolling the sea wall or enjoying fresh lobster rolls, visitors can relax in a beach house in Narragansett nestled steps from the sand or close to Point Judith.
Westerly, Rhode Island
Southwest of Block Island and included in the document, Westerly draws beachgoers to Misquamicut and Watch Hill with concerts, seafood, and coastal charm. Families and couples alike can enjoy evenings in a house in Westerly that opens onto breezy porches or seaside views. Westerly’s balance of quiet and entertainment makes it a strong companion to island life.
Mystic, Connecticut
Across the state line, Mystic is featured in the document and shines with maritime flavor, from historic ship replicas at Mystic Seaport to the lively aquarium. After a day of nautical exploration, settle in a vacation rental in Mystic located near waterfront eateries or tucked into a historic district. Mystic blends family fun with seafaring history, complementing Block Island’s natural escape.
South Kingstown, Rhode Island
Just north of Narragansett, South Kingstown is not in the document but offers beautiful beaches, peaceful countryside, and the cultural buzz of the University of Rhode Island. Stay in a cottage in South Kingstown with easy access to hiking trails, local cafes, and Kingston Village charm. This laid-back retreat extends the tranquil vibe of Block Island to the mainland.
Explore captivating island getaways and serene beachfront retreats in the United States
Dive into the charm of Block Island with its rich maritime history and picturesque landscapes, perfect for those who cherish island life. Discover an array of airbnb on Whidbey Island where you can explore the historic forts and scenic state parks. For a taste of the incomparable Outer Banks, consider the unique Ocracoke Island accommodations known for its remote beaches and iconic lighthouse. Catawba Island offers splendid opportunities for visitors with Catawba Island holiday homes near beautiful nature preserves. Meanwhile, Put In Bay rental properties invite you to enjoy vibrant nightlife and charming harbors in Ohio.
Relish the sun-kissed beaches and tranquil seashores that define the essence of a perfect beach escape. With airbnb in Holden Beach, you can savor the soft sands and serene oceanfront in North Carolina. Experience the carefree vibes with rentals in Fire Island, renowned for its unique communities and vibrant boardwalks. The scenic and pristine coastal views from Cape San Blas holiday homes offer a laid-back atmosphere with numerous water activities available. Lastly, unwind with vacation rentals in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, where lively fishing piers and coral reefs add to the allure of Florida’s beaches.