Block Island is a place that holds a strong sense of female energy. One of the first symbols of woman you’ll find right off of the ferry is the Rebecca of the Well Statue right in the center of town. In 1896, the Women’s Christian Temperance Union erected the Statue of Rebecca. Noted in the Book of Genesis, Rebecca of the Well is carrying water for people and animals. This statue was put here by the group in hopes of curbing the alcohol consumption on the island.

While there are countless women that have influenced Block Island, one that comes to mind instantly is Mary Donnelly. She arrived on Block Island in 1958 from Providence with her husband who had plans to start working on the island as the only telephone man. The state of Rhode Island caught wind that Mary D. was a nurse, and at the time there was a high demand for nurses. They got in touch with her and urged her to become the state nurse. Through this, she fell hopelessly in love with the community and the island. After helping many people with funds that came right out of her pocket, the Ecumenical Ministry started the Mary D. Fund to help Mary with her work. The fund is now going over forty years strong. Mary’s daughter Marguerite Donnelly told me “The Mary D. Fund reflects the faith in others. We are not only in the business of second chances, we are in the business of 3rd, 4th, and 5th.” They worked alongside each other for over fifteen years. She explains that the state of Rhode Island and The Department of Health consider Mary Donnelly “a pioneer of public health”. I believe anyone would agree. In fact, she was the last state nurse in Rhode Island to still be making house calls. To be a mother to seven children, the first nurse on a small island in New England, and a safe haven for people that need help is something that everybody can learn from. “There is generational proof in the power of love and giving.”, Marguerite Donnelly tells me. To learn more about The Mary D. Fund, see the link below that will bring you to the website. 

Mary D. Fund Website 

Block Island is home to so many women that represent strength, resilience, and have endless “go-getter” energy. To put it into perspective; our town offices are made up of mostly women and our library is run by a team of women including the head librarian. The head of our rescue squad, as well as the squad itself, the dispatch team, and our town manager, to name a few more. Our medical center would not be what it is without the women that work there. Our Harbormaster, too, which in my opinion is monumental. In a male dominated industry, having a woman overseeing and directing harbor operations is something to be recognized. So much is held together because of the women here.

From the moment you step off of the ferry, there’s Water Street with countless retail shops that are owned by women. Then you hit Dodge Street, where almost every single business is also female owned. From Diamond Blue Surf Shop and Lila Delman Real Estate, to The Darius Inn, LazyFish, The Red Bird Liquor Store, The Blue Dory Inn, The Beachcomber, even including The National Hotel whose female general manager has been running the show for the last thirty years. They are a fierce and inspiring group who work together to keep their neighborhood colorful with a vibe that makes sense to Block Island. From restaurants, hotels, retail stores and events, there is a strong chance there’s a strong female behind the success. 

Within my research, I found that there are over 60 female owned businesses on Block Island. I am certain that there are more. The culture of women on Block Island didn’t start with Rebecca of the Well or Mary D., and it won’t end with today’s female Block Island leaders; but we all know each generation inspires the next and we expect to see years of smart, creative, and strong women in all walks of Block Island life leading by example. 

Stay tuned on our social media for an upcoming, ongoing series about the women-owned businesses of Block Island. 

Find us here:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blockislandtourism

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blockislandinfo/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/blockislandinfo

Website: http://www.blockislandinfo.com

Image source: Circa 1935. “Fountain Square, Block Island, R.I. “, PC7481, Rhode Island Postcard Collection, Providence Public Library, Providence, RI. Source: http://provlibdigital.org/items/show/558

Happy February!

In all reality, cue the summertime sadness. While it has been a very warm winter, it’s still very easy to get lost in the the thought of summer. The Block Island daydream. What’s better than a misty morning walk through Rodman’s Hollow, a breezy summer beach day at Scotch, or savoring every second of the burning sunset at Dories Cove? The only thing better than those things, is when you find an orb while doing so (if you know, you know). The excitement for summer is slowly approaching; to comfort the winter blues, take a look at some incredible images from this past year!

While it’s easy to feel like winter is dragging, looking at these photographs is a pleasant reminder that summer is right around the corner. Having something to look forward to is important, and what better than a trip to Block Island this summer?

As always, more information can be found at http://www.blockislandinfo.com

People often ask locals on Block Island, “How do you live here in the winter?” It’s simple; by remaining calm, cold, and collected. All jokes aside, it’s chilly outside! 

 We have officially nestled into the new year and the winter season on Block Island. With the trails quiet, beaches empty, and construction plans in full swing– the 2023 summer season will be here before we know it. For now, it’s a hibernation nation.  

Day to day life is quite different here in the winter compared to the hustling bustling summer. There is a silence in the air that everyone is absorbing to align for the next wave of people. Making sure you fill your gas tank before Sunday and making it to the grocery store before sunset are just a few of the quirks to a Block Island winter. With few places that stay open, this truly forces people to enjoy everyday life here with a stronger sense of presence. The days are shorter yet remain full of organic elegance.

While walking the quiet foggy trails this time of year, you might run into a few animal friends. A leaping doe, a foraging buck, or if you’re lucky – the luminous Snowy Owl. It is rare to observe the Snowy Owl in action, but there is no better time than January on Block Island. Owls are known to symbolize change, transformation, and inner wisdom. To see this majestic creature is a good sign in many ways. The variety of wildlife found on this beautiful Island is worth the blustery ferry ride over from Point Judith, Rhode Island. While here, making a stop at the Southeast Light, The North Lighthouse, or the Bluffs guarantees a view of the island you simply just don’t get in August. After a long beach walk, sit down with a book and a blanket to enjoy the waves crashing as you get to enjoy the beach to yourself.

There are plenty of options for places that are open on the island to dine during the winter season.

Check out the hours below!

Enjoy Breakfast:

Odd Fellow’s Café:    Open Monday-Thursday 7AM – 4PM. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 7AM-3PM.

Grab Lunch:

Odd Fellow’s Café:    Open Monday-Thursday 7AM – 4PM. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 7AM-3PM.

Old Island Pub:     Open daily from noon to 1 AM year-round. Lunch: Monday-Sunday 12PM – 3PM. Dinner Monday- Sunday 5PM-7PM. Tuesday is the Taco Tuesday menu only: 12PM-6PM or until sold out.

Block Island Grocery: Open daily 9AM-6PM.

Have Dinner:

The Barn at Spring House:  Open Wednesday-Sunday. Bar opens at 4 PM. Kitchen opens at 5 PM.

Old Island Pub:  Open daily from noon to 1 AM year-round. Lunch: Monday-Sunday 12PM – 3PM. Dinner Monday- Sunday 5PM-7PM. Tuesday is the Taco Tuesday menu only: 12PM-6PM or until sold out.                  

McAloon’s:     Closed for the month of January.

Kimberly’s:     Re-opening on January 26^th. Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 5PM 8PM.Closed Sunday January 29^th. Open Wednesday February 1^st – Saturday February 4^th at 5PM-8PM.

Visiting Block Island in the winter ensures a deeper local perspective. If you can enjoy the island in the dead of winter, you can enjoy it at any time. Book a room at The Inn at Spring House to see some of the most incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean on Block Island. Staying at The 1661 Inn defines relaxation with each room offering a boutique vibe full of antiques and morning tea accompanied by pristine, glistening ocean views. You can also get a bird’s eye view of town and Corn Neck Road by staying at The Avonlea! 

No matter what you are doing on Block Island in January, it is guaranteed to offer a different perspective. Less is more. You can still enjoy the island as you would in the summer, just with fewer options to choose from. Take a deep breath and take it all in – soon we will miss these days.

It’s about that time of year where the kids are back in school,
vacationers vacate the beaches and the weather in much of the United
States, including Block Island, begins to cool before winter sets in.
If you are one of those individuals that view fall as an indication of
the impending doom a New England winter brings, you might want to book
one last hurrah in a place with more summery vibes, even if summer has
technically come to an end. You can enjoy great deals on things to do
and places to stay on the island if you travel now.

Block Island temperatures average in the 70s this time of year. It’s a
place where you can enjoy the beach without the crowds. A place where
sweatshirts and leggings are acceptable clothing no matter where you
go on the island. A place where you can indulge in seasonal foods.
Pumpkin coffee has found its way to the island! Come for a visit to
relax and soak in the sun. Let your toes feel the sand one more time.
Let the crashing of waves fill your mind and soul and carry you to
next summer. Let Block Island show you why the locals favor the Fall on the island. In fact, get to know the locals. There’s more time to stop and smell the roses this time of year and you’ll get the authentic travel experience.

So, let the crisp air and stunning views that come with fall be your
“reset” button. Vacation season isn’t over until you have no more plans to
look forward to.

As always, more information can be found at http://www.blockislandinfo.com

A beach trip to Block Island is the perfect option to enjoy a day or more away. As a frequent traveler to Block Island I have found some helpful packing tips that I’d like to share. Whether you are planning a day trip or a full week of Summer Vacation, this beach packing list has you covered.

If you’re worried about what to bring to the beach and what you’re likely to forget, prepare yourself for the ultimate list of beach essentials. From basics to extras, and from toiletries to luxury relaxation, you won’t forget a thing if you stick to these beach necessities. 

LIGHT LUGGAGE 

Your luggage should always be versatile and lightweight. Especially for a beach vacation, you want to make sure you don’t pack too much. The goal is to relieve stress, not add to it. 

GETTING ORGANIZED 

For vacations where you are planning lots of activities, you have a lot of supplies. From sandals and walking shoes to sunscreen and shades, you need to keep it all organized. 

Try saving space by compressing your clothing. And don’t forget to use packing organizers. You can then quickly slide organizers of any kind straight into the drawers of your hotel dresser, making unpacking simple. 

Let’s not forget, you’ll surely need to bring some food to the beach—and a way to keep it cool. Coolers are too bulky for a beach vacation, so instead pack a large lunch bag or insulated bag with your food essentials.

THE BASICS: BEACH PACKING CHECKLIST 

Even if you plan to lounge on the beach and do nothing else (my kinda vacation), there are some basic items you want to include in your beach packing list. 

• Sunscreen 
• Sunglasses 
• Bathing suit 
• A good book 
• Sandals 
• Tank tops 
• Shorts 
• Hat 
• Cell phone and portable charger 
• Underwear 
• Pajamas 
• Toothbrush 
• Toothpaste
• Shampoo 
• Conditioner 
• Soap 

 If you have room, some of my favorite fun things to take to the beach include: 

• Frisbees and beach balls to start a friendly game
• Goggles 
• Snorkel
• Towel 
• Sarong
• Beach umbrella

For entertainment purposes, you should consider packing the following items: 

• Portable speaker
• Laptop or tablet 
• Headphones 
• Camera
• Electrical converters or travel adapters 
• Journal and pen 
• Book 
• Chapstick 
• Water bottle and bottle sling
• Insulated tote bag or cooler

Vacation is supposed to be fun, so try not to spend time worrying about whether you forgot to lock up the house before you left. Use these lists of things to bring as a jumping off point for your own personalized beach packing list. Go through your itinerary day by day and make a list of things to take to the beach that you know you will need. Dress yourself (and any traveling little ones) from head to toe each day, considering all weather scenarios and other possible travel hiccups. 

Now it’s time to gather your friends, pack your bags, take a final pre-trip picture for social media, and enjoy your glorious beach vacation getaway on Block Island!

http://www.blockislandinfo.com for more!

As the sand spreads everywhere, the sun shines on our faces, and the salty air rejuvenates our souls, those of us who live and breath Block Island all year are getting excited about sharing our island and our businesses with those of you ready to start the Summer season.

We are committed to making your visit with us memorable. If you are spending an overnight, your room will be waiting for you, as will the comforts of outdoor sitting areas, fire-pits, play spaces, and more. You’ll see that several restaurants with old favorites and new options are opening up for the season. Let’s not forget the boutique shops supplying you with rare finds and souvenirs. They’re back at it as well!  You can walk, ride or drive everywhere on island!

To accommodate your need for adventure and the anticipated, well deserved, Island Time, the Block Island Ferry from Point Judith has extended their hours and the ferries are running more frequently. The New London ferry starts this weekend as does the Montauk ferry! Block Island Airlines is always an option for those of you who prefer the sky to the ocean. However you get here, just make sure to get here soon!

Don’t forget your sense of adventure, appetites, sunblock, flip flops and swimsuits. Let’s welcome back summer vacations, school breaks, and island time!

If you have questions about what to do or where to stay check us out on www.blockislandinfo.com

Daffodil Days and Spring Things!

Any day now the daffodils at the maze will be in full bloom for all to enjoy! The island will be bustling in a few months but April is definitely the Shoulder, or quiet, season on Block Island . You want to visit now to experience the flowers in all their glory. These beauties are often the first sign of spring on the island, and they are a sight for sore eyes after a long winter. The famous display typically makes its presence mid April and lasts for about a month, delighting all who visit.

But daffodils are just the beginning! There are plenty of bulbs and blossoms you’ll spot over the coming weeks on the island. They will be accompanied by several types of our feathered friends singing a tune and flying the skies. Block Island is a favorite for all the birdwatchers out there. It’s actually recognized as one of the most important migratory bird habitats on the east coast.

Another fun Spring stop is the 1661 Inn Farm and Gardens. It is home to camels, llamas, goats, swans, a yak, a zebu, lemurs and even red kangaroos! Yes, the animals are there year round, but they are so energetic in the spring. It’s not too hot, not too cold. They look forward to meeting new people and feeding with friends.

Now you may ask how will you get to these magnificent places… take a hike, or a bike! There are many Greenway trails crisscrossing the island, across the more than 47% preserved open space on the island that you can walk. Biking is also a great way to get around and get those cardio muscles working, you can rent or bring your own – don’t forget your helmet!

And while you are exploring, don’t forget to look for those famous glass floats.

For more information on hiking, biking, float hunting and more check out blockislandinfo.com

Getting to the island is part of the fun! The sights you will take in before you arrive on Block Island are breathless, whether in the sky or in the water.

To catch a wave:

The Block Island Traditional Ferry provides year-round service from Point Judith, RI.  This is the only Ferry that can take vehicles to the island and reservations for vehicles are required.  Passenger reservations are recommended. 

The Hi-Speed Ferry is a state-of-the-art High Speed Catamaran, it sails mid-May through mid-October.   The ferry departs from the State Pier in Point Judith, R.I.  and docks in Old Harbor in under 30 minutes. 

The “Islander” is a high-speed ferry that runs seasonally. The ferry runs from Downtown Newport (Perrotti Park) and Old Harbor, Block Island, and takes one hour. 

Please visit www.blockislandferry.com for schedules and information or call (401) 783-4613.

The Block Island Express connects New London, CT and Old Harbor, Block Island in just over one hour on a high-speed catamaran.  The terminal in New London is located next to the train station and limited parking is available with a municipal garage across the street.  This ferry runs May through September only.  Reservations are recommended. Visit  www.goblockisland.com for schedules and more information.

The Viking Fast Ferry connects Montauk, NY to New Harbor, Block Island in about one hour via high speed ferry.  Ferry runs Memorial Day through Labor Day only.  For schedule information and directions visit www.vikingfleet.com.

Upon arriving at any mainland ferry dock you will see lots used for parking. Rates are reasonable and vary by season and lot.

If you’d like to captain your own boat, you can call ahead for docking reservations at marinas on Block Island:

New Harbor Boat Basin. (401) 480-1429. Champlin’s Marina. (401) 466-7777
Payne’s Dock. (401) 466-5572.
Old Harbor Town Dock. (401) 466-3235

If you plan on being your own captain and picking up a mooring or anchoring in the private boat section you’ll need to know where to go:

New Harbor on the West Side of the Island, in the beautiful Great Salt Pond. New Harbor has 3 large marinas, 90 town moorings and a 75 acre anchorage for vessels. The Harbormaster’s Office is located at the New Harbor Boat Basin during the summer season.  The Harbormaster can be contacted on VHF CH 12 once you arrive in New Harbor.  . Reservations are not taken as they are first come first serve.  It is a 3 minute taxi ride or 15 minute walk from New Harbor to town or to Crescent Beach.

Old Harbor on the East Side of the Island is a Harbor of Refuge protected by a breakwater.  There is limited space for anchoring, which  is restricted. Please call the Harbormaster with any questions.   Old Harbor is in the center of town and has a small 30 boat marina operated by the Town.  Dockage is first come first serve. The Commercial ferry landing is also located in Old Harbor.

For more information contact the Block Island Harbors Department at (401) 466-3204

To get some air:

New England Airlines has been providing daily scheduled air service to Block Island as a certificated Commuter Airline since 1970.   Air services, provided by New England Airlines, are offered daily (year round) from Westerly, RI.  Westerly, located just off Interstate 95 is an easy drive, or train ride from anywhere in New England. (AMTRAK serves Westerly with daily trains between Washington/New York and Boston).  Flight time between Westerly and Block Island is 12 minutes.  Parking at the Westerly airport is FREE!  New England Airlines also offers charter flights to airports throughout New England.
For more information and reservations please visit  www.blockislandsairline.com or call (800) 243-2460 or 401-596-2460.

Block Island Airport (BID)

Block Island state airport is a vacation destination for thousands of passengers each year arriving on New England airlines. The airport also serves the community’s critical needs by providing access for time-sensitive cargo and urgent medical transport. Bethany’s, the on-airport restaurant, is a popular destination for the new England GA community. The terminal has a welcoming atmosphere and is located within walking distance of downtown New Shoreham and Block Island’s free beaches.  Various local companies offer charter service to area airports, for information Contact the airport:  401-466-5511, https://www.pvdairport.com/corporate/general-aviation/block-island-bid

So whether you’ll be visiting by seas or skies, getting to the island is part of the adventure. It’s time to sit back and enjoy the ride.