It’s June on Block Island! That means it’s time to get outside and enjoy a hike along one of the many trails our island has to offer.

The Dickens Farm Wildlife Refuge will not disappoint. Walking these trails will give you panoramic views above the crashing waves of the Atlantic. There are two beginner level trails along the meadows where bird watchers have been known to see raptors, barn owls, northern harriers, peregrine falcons, merlins, American Kestrels, song sparrows, yellow-rumped warblers, and phesants.

The Clay Head Preserve is the definition of beauty on Block Island. Take in the breathtaking views of the clay bluffs overlooking the ocean and a bunch of intertwining trails known to the locals as the Maze.

Rodman’s Hollow is another popular trail for nature lovers near and far. Located in the southwest part of the island, you will see a wooden gate and turnstile marking the trail entrance. The gorgeous panoramic vista is worth the trip alone.

The many Greenway Trails of Block Island are maintained by the Block Island Conservancy and the Nature Conservancy. There are about 25 miles of walking trails available to you and you can find them all on one map. Pick one up today at the Nature Conservancy office on High Street or at the Welcome Center Building in Old Harbor.

Get out there and go green!

More information can always be found at http://www.blockislandinfo.com

Whether this is your first visit or your one hundredth visit to Block Island, you’ll be amazed at the beauty that surrounds you. Our charming island is opening up for the season, just in time to cure cabin fever for all painters, photographers, writers, and travelers alike.

Stay at your choice of picturesque rentals and bed-and-breakfasts. Dine at one of our delectable restaurants. Go for a walk or hike along our beautiful stretch of sea and sand. Shop local exquisite boutiques and bring home a souvenir and a memory. Everywhere you turn you’ll see an adventure to experience and a treasure to find.

While some Block Island establishments are open year-round others are seasonal and begin to open in the Spring, until by Memorial Day Weekend, most everything is open. To see a list of what is open, visit http://www.blockislandinfo.com/island-events/whats-open-on-block-island

Lucky for us, the sites to be taken in are open year round. A must see this Spring are the daffodils! Take a walk along the Clayhead Nature Trail and visit a site like no other. The thousands of daffodils are in bloom and photographers are in love. To reach the trail, look for a post marker on the right side of Corn Neck Road, about 3 miles from town and across from a big yellow farm house. Turn right down the dirt road and go straight for one-third of a mile until you reach a parking area.

For more on what’s happening on Block Island this season, take note that the 2021 Magazine will be out this month. You can request a copy by emailing your mailing address to blockisland02807@gmail.com  or look for it on our website by May 1^st. http://www.blockislandinfo.com

Because Block Island is a popular seasonal destination, it can be more crowded in the summer (July and August)and that is when room rates and occupancy are at their highest. Insiders will tell you that the best times to visit for many are the spring months of April, May and early June. The crowds haven’t yet arrived, the room rates are lower, and the weather is pleasant enough to enjoy many different outdoor activities.

Spring 2021 finds Block Island like a normal Spring – businesses are starting to re-open for the season, beaches and walking paths are all open. We are still following all State of RI and CDC guidelines around Covid-19 for travel and visiting. Whenever you feel ready to visit us, we will be here- safely- ready for you.

Spring is the perfect time of year to explore Block Island on two wheels. Our Self-Guided Bike Tour helps you do just that! 

The bike tour consists of 12 “stations”, each highlighting a special spot on the island and each marked with a circular signpost with a QR code in the center. Shoot the QR code (you have to install a reader, free at your mobile device app store) and you get minute-long videos at each station. These videos will tell you a little about what you’re seeing or the history of where you’re standing. The full route is about 16 miles, and stretches up to the North Lighthouse, which is as far from downtown as you can get on the 7 x 3 mile island. Families may want to opt for the shorter 7.5 mile loop which circles back to town. The tour ends at Water Street which is the perfect last stop to reward yourself with lunch or dinner or even get in some shopping.

If you don’t want to take the cell phone on this adventure, wallet-size maps of the route (with short descriptions of the stations) are available free at the Welcome Center (off Water Street across from the ferry docks) and from most of the bike rental places in town. If you are planning on renting a bike, moped or car be sure to call ahead to check opening status: http://www.blockislandinfo.com/what-to-do/bike-and-moped-and-car-rental

If powering your own two wheels isn’t exciting you, the self-guided tour works just as well walking, or by car!

We will hope to see you soon.

http://www.blockislandinfo.com

Block Island welcomes you to witness the tenderness of late Spring on the Island. If you want to avoid the crowds that descend on the town in the Summer months, sneak in a visit this Spring. In May and June you can take advantage of all the tourist hot spots that are opening up shop. The weather will begin to warm up too. In May, you’ll rarely see a day below 50 degrees.

Lodging tends to cost less, parking is not a problem, there are no lines at your favorite coffee shop or restaurant. It’s also an ideal time to shop. You can get some great deals on items the shopkeepers want to move before the Summer rush.

A must see this time of year is the daffodil fields at Clayhead Nature Trail. Bring your cameras and charge your smart phones as you’ll want to capture this beautiful site. The most photographed spot tends to be in front of the Bluestone, a large stone at the top of the hill. Don’t miss it!

The daffodils aren’t alone however, we have many gardeners on the island that love to show off their skills. The island’s colors really come to life when everything begins to bloom. Something easy to spot as you meander around the streets and lanes of the island.

Since you already have your cameras ready, take a stroll on any of the island’s beaches. The crowds won’t be there. You’ll be able to hear the waves roll in. You’ll want to snap a photo or two to remember the feeling of calm that takes over your body.

Whether you have been to Block Island many times or are looking to experience it for the first time, May and June are favorite months to be on island. Unless your vacation plans include swimming in the ocean every day, late Spring offers you almost everything that Summer does with the addition of a little more space.

While we don’t yet know what restrictions and regulations will be in place on Block Island this Spring, we do know that our businesses will be opening up with all necessary safety procedures, our beaches and trails are always open and free to the public and ferries and planes will be running. In short, we want to welcome you back to another season on Block Island and we will be following all recommended guidelines so that you (and we) are safe.

For more information on how to experience all that Block Island has to offer, please visit http://www.blockislandinfo.com/

I think we are all ready to say goodbye to 2020 and we are looking forward to traveling again in 2021.  For this reason, take a hard look at your Holiday Shopping list this year and consider giving those you love the gift of a getaway. Give them an experience in which the memories made will last a lifetime. (To my own family, consider this a hint!)

An experience on Block Island is the perfect alternative to buying “stuff”. The trip will be memorable and will provide that warm feeling that you simply cannot achieve with an object. Let’s be honest, do you remember what everyone gave you last holiday season? But, if you ask them about trips they’ve been on, the stories will pour out with detailed explanations!

Stuff comes and goes, but experiences last forever in the memories we share.

Consider what happens when you go on a trip to Block Island together or give someone an experience to enjoy on the island… You can plan it together. You can visit the various sites together. You share the views on Mohegan Bluffs and the sunny days on the beach. You experience the laid back culture (you’re on island time). You enjoy the food at a local delicious restaurant, sitting out overlooking the ocean. You’re experiencing the trip together. Then, when you get back you have memories to call upon together.
If you can’t make the trip with them, you’ll still enjoy sharing the pictures and videos upon their return. You can talk all about what they saw while they were away, and almost feel like you were there with them. Gift the gift everyone wants this year. Plan a trip to Block Island in 2021.

For a comprehensive list of online shopping options and web-links to get gift certificates see here: http://www.blockislandinfo.com/island-events/shop-block-island-from-anywhere-anytime

Blog post by Holly Herdman of Block Island Marketplace.

2020 has been a year of firsts for many of us; Our day to day lives have changed, the usual and traditional summer plans were altered or canceled, and many of us were not able to experience and explore the Block Island we know and love. With the holidays on their way and the annual Holiday Stroll cancelled, online shopping has become more prevalent than ever.

Traditionally, Block Island has been a place to shop in person; A place to see your favorite shop owners, browse the shelves and clothing racks while chatting about your winter and what is new around the Island. This year, more Island artists and shop owners have joined the world of ecommerce to bring Block Island to you.

Now you have more of an opportunity to do your Christmas shopping safely from home and still get your favorite trinkets and artisan treasures to share with the ones you love!

“Who’s online”, you ask? Let’s break it down A-Z!

Block Island Marketplace is a new website to connect shoppers with local artists selling handcrafted items. All available products are one of a kind, constantly changing, and crafted with love of the island.

https://www.blockislandmarketplace.com/

Adrift Eco Boutique has great clothing and accessories focused on being sustainably and ethically made. https://adriftbi.com/

BlockDuck has a collection of comfortable clothing and accessories in their original BlockDuck designs. https://www.blockduck.com/

Block Island Coffee sells various sustainably sourced and island roasted coffees and coffee beans. https://blockislandcoffee.com/

Block Island Day Dreams sells shirts designed with love on the shores of Block Island and printed locally in little Rhodey. https://www.blockislanddaydreams.com

Block Island Fishworks added a shop to their website for Block Island face masks, hats, and t-shirts, including new 2020 designs. https://www.sandypointco.com/shop

Block Island Sport Shop has all of your outdoor apparel and product needs with a broad selection and the best brands. https://blockislandsport.com/

B.I. Tees, Solstice, and True North Outfitters has a combined website to feature all of B.I. Tees’ custom designed t-shirts, Solstice’s unique gifts, and even hand blow glass by Eben Horton, creator of the Glass Float Project. https://bitees.com/

Block Island Trading Company has the largest selection of Block Island paraphernalia available online or in store. https://blockislandtradingcompany.com/

Blvck Market is a unique boutique with original clothing and jewelry styles designed on Island and made with exotic materials from around the world. https://www.blvckmarket.com/

Diamond Blue Surf Shop allows you to shop top clothing and accessories brands while planning family activities for next summer’s vacation. https://diamondbluebi.com/

DOCK is a woodworking business started by an Island native who makes boards, furniture, and custom items. https://www.dock-bi.com/

East of the River Nile is completely online now with their entire collection of jewelry, handbags, books, clothing, and more from around the world. https://eastoftheriverniletradingcompany.com/

Island Bound Bookstore has a large collection of literature for all ages including best sellers, Block Island books and activities, e-books, and can even do special ordering. https://www.islandboundbookstore.com/

Island Mist Natural Products is an all-natural skin care line hand-crafted on Island using high quality Island resources. 100% plant based and free of chemicals, dyes, and synthetic fragrances. https://islandmistnaturalproducts.com/

Littlefield Bee Farm sells Block Island honey, cinnamon honey, honey mustard, and beeswax candles on their site. http://www.blockislandhoney.com/

Mar Mar Boutique sells handcrafted jewelry by over 30 local artists as well as the famous BLOCKSTAR products. https://www.marmarboutique.com/

Mary MacGill Studio has an eclectic selection of high-end jewelry, clothing, accessories, books, textiles, and more. https://www.marymacgill.com/

Marye-Kelley has numerous options for handmade and customizable gifts and household decor to make the perfect holiday presents. https://www.marye-kelley.com/

Minnow is a new store on the Island selling kids games, crafts, and activities. Their website is new, so check back for new products regularly. https://minnow02807.com/

Mutt Hut carries lots of great brand’s dog supplies and their online shop has Block Island exclusive pet items for your pups, grandpups, and fur friends. http://www.mutthutbi.com/

North Light Fibers sells handcrafted yarns made 100% on Block Island as well as beautiful designs created to reflect the Island. https://northlightfibers.com/

Photo Dog now sells their collection of handmade signs, picture frames, ornaments, and other home decor items online. https://www.thephotodogartgallery.com/

Pop On The Block has a selection of their gourmet popcorn and other treats available on their website. https://popontheblock.com/

Royal Jewelers offers Block Island designs and royal fine finds that you can buy right on their website to add to your Block Island jewelry collection. https://www.jennifersjewelry.org/

Salty Dog has their Fish The World clothing and sticker designs available online, as well as Yeti drinkware. https://fishtheworld.us/

Seas Mtns Co is a small creative photography studio based on Block Island that sells framed prints and cards. https://seasmtnsco.pic-time.com/art

Traveling Seamstress sells handmade and hand-dyed clothing accessories that have a constantly evolving offering of items. https://www.travelingseamstress.com/etsy-shop

Wild Flowers Boutique is a shop dedicated to extending island style far beyond the Island. Shop clothing, accessories, and decor to bring the Island home. https://www.wildflowersbi.com/

While many stores do not have an online checkout option, you can browse their websites and contact them to place an order. Some of those include:

D. Chatowsky Art Gallery https://www.dchatowskyartgallery.com/

Golddiggers https://www.blockislandgolddiggers.com/

Jessie Edwards Gallery https://jessieedwardsgallery.com/

Malcolm Greenaway Gallery http://www.malcolmgreenaway.com/

My Oyster https://myoysterbi.com/

Spring Street Gallery https://www.springstreetgallery.com/

If you don’t see your favorite store listed, find them on social media or contact them directly. You may still be able to order from them and have the items shipped to you!

Remember, shop small this holiday season. Shop local to support your community and those around you so they can be around to serve you again, in person, next Spring!

The weather is still nice, some of the ferries and planes are still running, maybe you still have your boat in the water, and you’re thinking; “Let’s go to Block Island!”

But wait…what’s open after Columbus Day? Maybe you’ve never been to Block Island this late in the season before (we like to keep how awesome October and November are a secret) or maybe you’ve never been at all.

Block Island is quiet this time of year, less people, less traffic, less businesses open, but there’s more space on the walking trails, more space to walk the beaches and more birdsong to be heard.

There are ways to get here, ways to get around once here, places to stay, eat and shop, things to do and places to sit and enjoy the beauty of Block Island in the off-season.

We continue to follow all Covid-19 rules and regulations. Masks are required and limited people are allowed indoors at establishments at once. But Block Island has always been a “Take-it-Outside” type of place, so we have adapted pretty well to this new normal.

Here’s a little list, that is not totally inclusive, to give you an idea of what is open and what you can do.

Beaches: Open

Town Beach Pavilion bathrooms, lifeguards, concessions and rentals: Closed

Town Beach Pavilion showers: Closed

Greenway Trails: Open

Mohegan Bluffs Overlook and Stairs down to beach: Open

Southeast Lighthouse and North Lighthouse: Grounds open.  Buildings closed.

1661 Inn Animal Farm: Open

Ball O’Brien Park (Tennis, basketball, skate, picnic pavilion): Open

Ball O’Brien Park (Swings, play structure): Closed

School: Open

Library: Building closed.  Grounds open for fast wifi.  Online and outdoor programming available 401-466-3233

Post Office: Open

Bank: Open

Block Island Grocery: Open

Block Island Depot: Open

Block Island Ferry (Point Judith): Running. Check schedule on website. http://www.blockislandferry.com

Block Island High Speed Ferry (Point Judith): Running. http://www.blockislandferry.com

Block Island/Newport Ferry (Fall River): Done for Season

Block Island Express Ferry (New London): Done for Season http://www.goblockisland.com

Block Island Montauk Ferry: Done for Season http://www.vikingfleet.com

New England Airlines (Westerly): Running. http://www.blockislandsairline.com

Moped/Bike/Car Rentals: Available but weather dependent.  Call ahead.
http://www.blockislandinfo.com/what-to-do/bike-and-moped-and-car-rental

Kayak/paddleboard/surf rentals:Some closed for season.  Call ahead.
http://www.blockislandinfo.com/what-to-do/sports-and-recreation/kayak-and-sup-and-surf-rentals

Harbors: Moorings/pumpout/dinghy dock/launch: Minimal services available.  Call 401-466-3204

Town Old Harbor Dock/Marina: Call 401-466-3235

Restaurants and Cafe’s:

Restaurants and Cafes on Block Island that are  open offer outdoor and indoor seating as well as take-out options.  Capacity is limited so reservations are recommended. Please call business or visit their website for hours and menus.

http://www.blockislandinfo.com/what-to-do/dining

This link will take you to an updated list of Chamber of Commerce Member’s hours and phone numbers post Columbus Day:

https://blockislandchamber.com/pdfs/DINING.pdf

Shopping:

Many shops on Block Island are still open on weekends, some open 7 days.  Masks are required and the number of people per store is limited.  Most Block Island shops added an online store as well this year!

http://www.blockislandinfo.com/what-to-do/shopping​

Hotels/Inns/B&B: Most still open through October, some year-round, call ahead or check websites.

http://www.blockislandinfo.com/where-to-stay

​Private Marinas: Call ahead

• New Harbor Boat Basin – 401-480-1429
• Payne’s Dock – 401-466-5572
• Champlin’s Marina – 401-466-7777

Taxi Service:

• McAloon’s Taxi Service 401-741-1410
• Clark’s Cab 401-466-5839
• Sueann – 401-742-0436
• Harbor Taxi 401-500-6726

Maps: Including the Old Harbor Walking Tour and The Island Mobile Bike Tour;

http://www.blockislandinfo.com/maps

Glass Float Project:

http://www.blockislandinfo.com/island-events/glass-float-project

If you are looking for more information you can always call the Visitor’s Center at 401-466-2474 or visit them in person in the ferry dock parking lot.

We have an informative magazine, with information (for 2020) and beautiful photography, and we would be happy to send you a copy. Just email your name and address to blockisland02807@gmail.com.

Don’t forget to catch a sunset while you’re here.

You’ve packed away your swimsuit and stopped stock piling the sunscreen. Those white capris? Not until Memorial Day friends! It’s that time of year where all beach goers start crying on the inside. Summer is almost over. BUT all is not hopeless. Many will say that Block Island gets better in the Fall. Good things come to those that wait.

While the small island is packed to the max all summer, by late September our Summer friends have abandoned the beaches and restaurants so the regulars start to move back in. We are happy to soak up the chill vibe on some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. You won’t find many beach chairs or large groups of beach goers. And since all of our beaches are free and open to the public, you just need to find your favorite access point and you’ll be able to be one with your blue space again. The pureness you’ll walk away with is worth the trip alone. Block Island beaches are beautiful all times of the year, and in sweet September the water is still warm enough for swimming and there is a little more room on the sand.

Accommodations, from B&Bs to Hotels to house rentals tend to become more affordable in this so called ‘Shoulder Season’. Settle in at your first choice lodging and stroll to dinner without having to wait in line. Enjoy a spectacular fall sunset and a clear night sky.

Whether you take a short walk on the shoreline or bike the whole island, either choice is sure to be scenic. Stop and smell the flora, search for a glass float, watch the birds. Life is decidedly peaceful on the Island in the Fall. We invite you to be a part of it.

More information on visiting and what is open in the Fall can be found at http://www.blockislandinfo.com