Below you will find some of our most frequently asked questions. We continue to get feedback so if you see something missing from this list...let us know what you want to know!
Question: Is Block Island Open?
Answer: Yes. Block Island, the Island, never closed! Many businesses are open and the majority will be open by the end of June.
Question: How do I know what's open? Are the beaches open?
Answer: Yes, beaches are open. Follow this link to find a current list of what is open on Block Island - http://www.blockislandinfo.com/island-events/whats-open-on-block-island
Question: How do I get to Block Island?
Answer: By ferry from Point Judith, RI (www.blockislandferry.com), by ferry from New London, CT (www.goblockisland.com), by ferry from Montauk, NY (www.vikingfleet.com), by plane from Westerly, RI (www.blockislandsairline.com) or by private boat/plane.
Question: Are the ferries and planes crowded?
Answer: Yes, especially at peak times like weekends and holidays. However, the ferries have limited the passenger capacity to 30% - 60%, depending on the weather conditions. The safety of passengers and crew is the top priority; masks are required and social distancing procedures are in place. You will most likely be closer than 6 feet to others who aren't in your party, which is why masks are required for the entire time you are on the ferry. Please be respectful of other passengers and crew. Planes also have capacity limits but you will definitely be within 6 feet of others. Masks are required for the entire flight.
Question: What about the main street on Block Island? Isn't that crowded?
Answer: Yes. Water street and the "town" area sidewalks are crowded. Masks should be worn as you will be within 6 feet of people not in your party. Please be respectful of others.
Question: Do I need a mask on the beach?
Answer: You should have your mask handy if you plan on using the Beach Pavilion Facilities and/or the access paths and parking for the beach.
Question: Can I go to restaurants and go shopping?
Answer: Yes. restaurants are open for Indoor and Outdoor Dining, as well as curb-side pickup. Masks are required for dine-in and reservations are strongly recommended. Shops are open with limits of number of people allowed in the store and masks are required.
Question: Can I rent a moped/bike/car/kayak?
Answer: Yes. All rentals are available. Rental shops are following State of RI and CDC Covid-19 cleaning regulations. (Helmets requirements for bikes and mopeds are the same).
Question: Is Block Island Pet Friendly?
Answer: Yes. Pets are allowed on beaches and at most outdoor dining spots but they must be leashed. There are pet friendly accommodations on Block Island.
Question: Are there any events this year on Block Island?
Answer: Most town-sanctioned events have been cancelled due to gathering restrictions. However, the Glass Float Project and the Farmer's Market are happening. The 4th of July Parade, fireworks and Steak-Fry are cancelled. There are no Blues on the Block concerts this year.
Question: Is there any nightlife available?
Answer: At this time there are no indoor live music events allowed. Traditional bars are not allowed at this time either. Some restaurants will have outdoor entertainment until 9pm. Some restaurants do stay open until 1am but must have table service, as walk up bar service is not permitted at this time.
We want you to enjoy your visit to Block Island and we look forward to seeing you. However, if you are uncomfortable around crowds or feel as though you can't enjoy your time on Block Island if you have to wear a mask, we respectfully ask that you wait to visit our community. We are a small town with limited medical services and a large summer population and we wish to keep everyone safe and happy. Thank you.
