Block Island vacation rentals

Block Island is a quiet getaway off Rhode Island’s southern coast. Comprising just 10 square miles, it maintains a low-key atmosphere thanks to its small population (just 1,000 year-round residents) and expansive natural terrain. In 1991, Block Island was added to the Nature Conservancy’s list of Last Great Places in the Western Hemisphere, thereby protecting half of the island from development. It’s not untouched by the modern world, of course. The island’s town, New Shoreham, hosts a popular Fourth of July parade, as well as a competitive sailboat race and various outdoor events. But for the most part, the island is ruled by nature. Its dozens of beaches and hiking and cycling trails swell with visitors during the summer months, but come the shoulder seasons, Block Island can feel like an unspoiled hideaway.

Block Island experiences an oceanic climate. It’s cooler than the mainland during the spring and summer months, and warmer than the mainland during the fall and winter months. Typical summer temperatures hit the mid- to upper-70s Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures are milder than the mainland, but only slightly. Winter temperatures can drop as low as freezing, though snow is unlikely.

Old Harbor Historic District

With several dozen buildings dating to the early 19th century and one as old as 1750, the Old Harbor Historic District spans a handful of streets in downtown New Shoreham. Stroll the district to admire the centuries-old architecture, evident in personal residences, drug and retail stores, and places of worship.

Great Salt Pond

Nearly bisecting the island, Great Salt Pond stretches a little over a mile from West Beach to New Harbor. The narrow inlet on its northwest side allows small sailing vessels to enter from Block Island Sound, but for the most part, Great Salt Pond is calm, making it perfect for kayaking and dips in the water.

Block Island North and Block Island Southeast Lighthouses

There are two historic lighthouses on Block Island. They help guide ships to safety, but also provide visitors with places to hike to. On the northern tip of the island sits the North Lighthouse, surrounded by dunes protected by the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge. Wander out to the very tip, Sandy Point, for incredible ocean views. The Southeast Lighthouse is further inland than most lighthouses of its time (it was built in 1875). That’s because it was moved from its original spot in the 1990s, when erosion threatened its position on the cliffs.