The Summer of 2021 is proving to be the season to break last year’s routines! Traveling is on everyone’s to do list. With that in mind we have taken a few minutes to highlight some of the more popular attractions the island brings you in this year of redemption!
- Check out the Beauty at the Bluffs
The Mohegan Bluffs stands about 200 feet above sea level. At this height, the views are undoubtedly some of the best on the island (in New England?), but it doesn’t end there. After taking in the scenery from the top, you’ll want to pack a water and gather up all your energy to make the journey down the 141 stairs to the beautiful beach that awaits you below. It may be a bit of a workout but the reward is more spectacular views and an uncrowded spot to lay your towel down for the afternoon and soak up the sunshine.
2. Take in the Scene
Once off the ferry in Old Harbor, you’ll be steps away from much that Block Island has to offer. Water Street, the main street, is many people’s first and last stop on a day trip to the island. It’s easy to stroll along the water and visit the shops, as they have all of what you need for a day of fun on the island.
We recommend stopping at one of the several restaurants open for the season and ask for their specialty drink. You’ll feel about as tropical as it gets in New England. If you decide to make a night of it; there are many hotels and B&Bs in this downtown area, all close to beach access. Word to the wise...book well in advance for an overnight.
3. Find your perfect spot on Crescent Beach
Depending on what you are looking for in a Beach, Crescent beach encompasses it all. 4 miles of white sand that stretch the East side of the island. Surf beach has no waves and shallow water and is closest to town. Fred Benson Town Beach has facilities, concessions and lifeguards. If you are interested in more of a "scene" the volleyball nets and bigger waves at Scotch beach may be your cup of tea. The northern most end of Crescent beach is anchored by the more secluded Mansion Beach where you will find even bigger waves and excellent body surfing. The white sandy beach is inviting and will remind you of what a vacation destination is supposed to feel like. No matter if you are looking for a quiet spot all your own or you want to be in the center of the action, you can find your perfect spot on Crescent Beach.
4. Explore the Island via Bike
Whether you want to ride with the island breeze in your hair or break out in a sweat, exploring the island by bike is definitely something to try. You can visit the island’s famous lighthouses, explore the nature trails, beaches, and Great Salt Pond, and take frequent stops for a bite or a beverage along the way. There are multiple businesses right in the heart of downtown that offer bike rentals and maps or bring your own bike with you on the ferry.
The Block Island Tourism Council has a self-guided bike tour of the island, offering 12 stops with video information circumnavigating the island. You can find information on the tour here: https://www.blockislandinfo.com/maps/bike-tour-map
5. Dine Around
There’s certainly no shortage of places to eat and drink on Block Island, find a spot and relax as you try one of the establishment’s unique dishes, many located in both Old Harbor and the New Harbor section of the island. You can find breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, cocktails and stunning sunset views. Not sure which cocktail to try? Those who frequent Block Island know that mudslides are the unofficial cocktail of choice while on island time.
6. Find a Glass Float
As of June 4, 2021, 550 Glass Floats (glass orbs about the size of an orange) have started being hidden on Block Island. Floats are dated, numbered and stamped with the shape of Block Island. The floats are clear glass except for 21 (because it is 2021), which are special colored orbs. If you find a float we ask that you register it by clinking here: https://www.blockislandinfo.com/glass-float-project/register-floats.
Floats are hidden on the beaches and on the Greenway Trails. They will be found above the high tide mark but never in the dunes or up the side of the bluffs. They will be within a few feet of either side of any Greenway trail they are placed on. Floats are never on Private Property. You'll want some patience and remember; the float finds you!