Block Island Region, RI

Located some nine miles off the Rhode Island coast, Block Island has long served as a summer destination, much like its regional island neighbors of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. However, Block Island has its own unique character, one with a decidedly outdoor flavor.

Block Island is unique among the major islands off southern New England in that 47 percent of the land is preserved open space. Numerous well-marked trails lead through a variety of coastal and upland habitat—including scrub-oak forest, ponds, beaches, and meadows laced by the island’s signature stone walls—providing the visitor with glimpses of many bird species.

The Block Island Greenway is a system of linked hiking trails that allow access to many unique areas and ecosystems that car-bound tourists fail to appreciate. The trails lead through hollows, meadows, beaches and around some of the freshwater ponds.

If you want to explore the wonders of the island’s trio of salt ponds, hop in a kayak or on a paddleboard. The protected ponds provide birders with a close look at numerous shorebirds and wading birds.

Biking is a great way to explore the island. There’s even a self-guided bike trail with QR code markers placed at interesting stops, including lighthouses and scenic overlooks. Numerous bike-rental shops can be found in Old Harbor, or you can bring your own on the ferry.

Of course, many anglers head for Block Island to fish for striped bass, bluefish, sea bass, fluke, scup and more. The local waters teem with fish, and routinely produce stripers over 50 pounds. If you don’t have your own boat, several charter operations stand ready to assist.

In addition to the aforementioned activities, Block Island supports a variety of other water-based pursuits, including surfing, diving, kiteboarding, paragliding, and more!