About Block Island

A laid-back hideaway known for its abundant natural beauty, Block Island — perched off Rhode Island’s southern coast — has become an increasingly popular destination for those eager to unwind. Home to just 950 residents, the island swells with holidaymakers in the summer, but local conservation efforts have ensured that miles of shoreline, 365 freshwater ponds and lovely rolling farmland have been well-preserved. Accommodation options include intimate inns as well as funky beach house hotels, with space for travellers of all ages. Small and soothing, the best places to stay in Block Island promise superb sea views and a brilliant place to put your feet up.

Spend your days kicking back on 17 miles of picturesque beaches, taking a dip in the sea or heading out on sailing, kayaking and fishing trips. The island’s interior is criss-crossed with hiking and cycling trails, as well as great fishing spots and bird-watching opportunities at many of the pretty ponds. Enjoy impressive ocean vistas from Mohegan Bluffs, visit the iconic South East Lighthouse, or delve into the island’s past at the Block Island Historical Society.

Back in the small, charming town of New Shoreham, you’ll find an appealing selection of bars and eateries specialising in cracking cocktails, seasonal produce and fabulously fresh seafood. These have a lively buzz during the holiday season, when you can also expect live music and small-scale artsy events. The best places to stay in Block Island fill up fast during the summer months, so book your trip well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay on Block Island

For Intimate Charm

  • The Atlantic Inn is a tranquil hilltop spot with views of the Old Harbour. 21 charming, antique-filled rooms invite relaxation, and there's onsite tennis, croquet and magical sunsets from the lawn. The award-winning wine list and seasonal tapas are a real treat. An intimate, romantic classic.
  • Hotel Manisses is a Victorian-landmark-turned-boutique-hotel on Block Island, with 17 elegant guestrooms, fantastic food and beautiful sea views. Popular with small groups, honeymooners and foodies for good reason.

For Families

  • The 1661 Inn is a lovely beach hotel with spacious rooms decorated in pastel shades, offering family-friendly layouts and superb sea views. Unwind on the veranda, play games on the lawn with the little ones, stroll to the beach or explore Block Island. An easy-going family choice.

For a Beach Retreat

  • Block Island Beach House overlooks Crescent Beach and is ideal for those eager to sink their toes into the sand. Rooms have a gorgeous vintage feel, and some offer big sea-facing balconies. Enjoy great food at The Surf and sip cocktails at the beach bar after days out on the water. An artsy beach retreat for couples or families.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly to Boston's Logan International Airport or to NY's Newark Liberty International Airport, and travel by road or rail to the coast.
  • Block Island Ferry runs regular daily services from Point Judith in Narragansett (year-round). Choose between a traditional ferry (1 hour) and a high-speed one (30 minutes). There are also seasonal ferries from New London, Newport and Fall River. Do look into this portion of the trip carefully before you travel.
  • Private boats can dock at the marinas or anchor at the Old or New Harbour on Block Island.
  • Rhode Island is great to explore by road! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the summer months (June to August) for the warmest weather, but do be aware that this is peak season. Temperatures average at around 24°C during the summer. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds and great hotel deals. Expect very cold winters!

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The best hotels in Block Island

Champlin's Resort & Marina

Block Island (Rhode Island)

Situated on Great Salt Pond this charming family-friendly hotel merges simple chic interiors with nautical vibes. Renovated rooms offer panoramic views and modern comforts, while amenities like a waterfront pool and live entertainment enhance the stay. Ideal for laid-back local exploring.

  • Beach Life - Perfect for salty guests — this seaside resort offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and even a marina to dock your sail boat!
  • Families - Discover family fun with a heated waterfront pool, live entertainment, and dockside dining, all steps away from the sea
  • Sailing - Set sail on the pristine waters of the Great Salt Pond with an extensive marina, offering dock space for a relaxing day at sea
  • Restaurant - Several restaurants to choose from. The Landings serves delicious New England dishes
from CA$237 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The 1661 Inn

Block Island (Rhode Island)

Historic white-clapboard beach-front inn. Classic contemporary rooms have a soft fresh nautical colour scheme, quirky layouts, sea views, wooden floors, spa baths and fireplaces. Enjoy the wrap-around veranda, manicured gardens and sea-facing restaurant. Stay for relaxed, easy-going beach holidays.

  • Local exploring - This beautiful island has vast natural wonders, historic lighthouses, excellent restaurants & a fun family-friendly coastal feel
  • Families - Families will feel at ease here with relaxed hosts, spacious rooms, beach & farm on the doorstep plus large green lawn for games
  • Beach Life - Enjoy miles of wild picture-perfect New England coastline; wide golden sand beaches, large dunes & beautiful blue sea
  • Great walks - Take a leisurely stroll around the simply stunning exotic garden and orchard; the spring flowers are a sight worth visiting for
from CA$251 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Atlantic Inn

Block Island (Rhode Island)

Tranquil hilltop boutique with views of the Old Harbour. The charming, antique filled rooms exude a relaxed vibe. Enjoy seasonal tapas, or al a carte, with an award winning wine list. Fantastic retreat offering tennis, croquet and magical sunsets from the lawn.

  • Total relaxation - Peace and quiet with no TV or radio, sit out on the warparound veranda and watch the ships sail by from the Old Harbor.
  • Great walks - This are is packed with fantastic walking, start off around the gardens and then head towards the harbour.
  • Tennis - There are two on site tennis courts for all guests to use.
  • Sights nearby - Check out the two neary lighthouses - Southeast and North.
from CA$252 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hotel Manisses

Block Island (Rhode Island)

A beautifully renovated Victorian beach house offering guests boutique accommodation. Rooms are elegantly designed with plush furnishings. The restaurant menu is lovingly curated and can be tailored to guest's needs for social events. The bar has an impressive selection of drinks and daily specials.

  • Groups - Hotel Manisses caters to large groups with sample menus for private dining and block booking options for rooms
  • Honeymoons - This romantic beachside hotel offering unique special touches for newlyweds is perfect for honeymooning
  • Beach Life - Explore the iconic beach paradise of Block Island
  • Sights nearby - Explore Block Island and its gorgeous landmarks including the South East Lighthouse
from CA$349 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Block Island Beach House

Block Island (Rhode Island)

Offering a perfect combination of laid back vibes and gorgeous accommodation with vintage-inspired rooms, some of which have balconies with impressive sea views, and direct beach access. The onsite restaurant, The Surf serves great food whilst the Beach Bar has an impressive cocktail menu.

  • Beach Life - Block Island Beach House overlooking Crescent Beach offers the only beachfront hotel rooms on the island.
  • Active Holiday - Block Island is a paradise for surfers, paddleboarders, walkers and cyclists alike
  • Surfing - Hit the waves in one of America's most iconic surf spots
  • Outstanding location
from CA$377 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia