Block Island Day Trip
Block Island: A New England gem offering dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and a charming island escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Block Island Day Trip
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Block Island: A New England gem offering dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and a charming island escape.
"Block Island is the East Coast's hidden gem, capturing the heart and soul of New England's coastal beauty."
Book Ferries Early
:ferry: Secure your ferry tickets in advance, especially for weekend trips.
Moped or Bike Rental
:scooter: Rent a moped or bike to explore the island easily.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mohegan Bluffs
Southeast side of the island
Dramatic clay cliffs offering breathtaking ocean vistas. Climb down for a unique perspective.
Crescent Beach
Southwest side of the island
Miles of pristine white sand perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the coastal breeze.
North Lighthouse
Northern tip of the island
Historic lighthouse offering panoramic views and a glimpse into maritime history.
Downtown Block Island
Near the ferry docks
Charming shops, restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere. A great spot for souvenirs and local flavors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry First: Booking Your Passage
Island Exploration: Getting Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ferries Early
:ferry: Secure your ferry tickets in advance, especially for weekend trips. 
Moped or Bike Rental
:scooter: Rent a moped or bike to explore the island easily.
Mohegan Bluffs Views
:camerawithflash: Don't miss the stunning views from Mohegan Bluffs!
Pack Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: You'll do a lot of walking, especially around the bluffs.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ferries Early
:ferry: Secure your ferry tickets in advance, especially for weekend trips.
Moped or Bike Rental
:scooter: Rent a moped or bike to explore the island easily.
Mohegan Bluffs Views
:camerawithflash: Don't miss the stunning views from Mohegan Bluffs!
Pack Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: You'll do a lot of walking, especially around the bluffs.
Ballards Beach Club
:cocktail: Enjoy food, drinks, and live music at Ballards.
Bring Cash
:moneywithwings: Some smaller vendors might prefer cash.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Block Island for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs and pristine beaches. The ferry experience is often described as smooth and scenic, with friendly staff. Many appreciate the island's relaxed atmosphere and the convenience of exploring via moped or bike.
"On a trip to block island there were rough seas on the way, but all the staff was accommodating and kind ! Much more than I can say about other passengers. People took up extra seats to avoid anyone sitting in between them. My husband and I ended upstairs but so did elderly and the very young. The boat trip was quick, only complaint about the boat, it should be cleaned out a little better, lots of debris in corners."
Loren Grossman
"★★★★★ Smooth, Scenic, and Stress-Free Ride to Block Island!
The Block Island Ferry is hands down the best way to travel to Block Island! From start to finish, the experience was seamless, well-organized, and enjoyable.
The boarding process was easy and efficient, with friendly and helpful staff making sure everything ran smoothly. Whether you take the traditional ferry (a relaxing 55-minute ride) or the high-speed ferry (just 30 minutes), the journey is comfortable and scenic.
The views from the ferry were absolutely stunning, especially on a sunny day. Watching the Rhode Island coastline and approaching Block Island made the trip feel like part of the adventure.
The seating was spacious and clean, and there was a snack bar offering refreshments, which was a nice touch. If you're traveling with a bike or even a vehicle, the ferry is well-equipped to handle it.
Overall, the Block Island Ferry is reliable, efficient, and a great way to start a trip to Block Island. Whether you're visiting for a day or a longer stay, this ferry sets the perfect tone for an amazing getaway.
Highly recommend—can’t wait to take it again!"
Kenardo Rowe (Kenardo_ G4200)
"I’ve been taking the Viking from Montauk to Block Island for almost a decade now.. Never had a bad experience (other than stormy seas!!).. The staff is always professional and courteous and they’re always running on schedule.. A few days ago we were stuck in World Cup traffic, rushing to catch the 10am ferry, and we called Viking to see if it we should just give up but they encouraged us to just get there as soon as we could.. We arrived a couple minutes before 10 and they were super accommodating, never stressed out and got us the boat without any drama.. Really a great operation.. And that’s fortunate because they’re the only way to get to Block Island from Long Island!!"
Massbaum
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Block Island is by ferry. Major departure points include Point Judith in Narragansett, RI; Newport, RI; New London, CT; Montauk, NY; and Orient Point, NY. The ferry ride itself is part of the experience, offering scenic views of the coastline.
From Rhode Island, you can take ferries from Point Judith (Narragansett) and Newport. The Point Judith ferry is generally the most frequent and often the quickest option.
Yes, you can take a day trip to Block Island from New London, CT. The ferry ride from New London typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on sea conditions.
Yes, several ferry companies offer high-speed options that significantly reduce travel time. For example, the ferry from Point Judith can be as short as 30 minutes on a high-speed vessel.
Ferry ride durations vary by departure point and vessel type. Traditional ferries can take 55 minutes to 2 hours, while high-speed ferries can be as short as 30 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Costs vary depending on your departure point, ferry type, and activities on the island. Factor in ferry tickets (round trip), moped/bike rental, food, and any attractions. Expect to spend anywhere from $100-$200+ per person for a day trip.
It is highly recommended to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during the summer months and on weekends, to guarantee your spot and avoid disappointment.
Ferry schedules vary by season and company. It's best to check the specific ferry line's website for the most up-to-date operating hours and departure times. Early morning departures are popular for day trips.
Most natural attractions like Mohegan Bluffs and beaches are free to access. Some specific attractions or tours might have fees, but generally, the island's beauty is accessible without significant entry costs.
Yes, you can bring your car on some ferries, but it's often not necessary or recommended for a day trip due to limited parking and the ease of getting around via moped or bike.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs, the historic North and Southeast Lighthouses, Crescent Beach, and the charming downtown area with its shops and restaurants.
The most popular ways to get around are by renting a moped or a bicycle. Walking is also feasible for exploring the downtown area and nearby beaches. Taxis are available but can be pricey.
The downtown area and nearby Crescent Beach are very walkable. However, to explore the entire island and reach sights like Mohegan Bluffs or the lighthouses, renting a moped or bike is highly recommended.
Enjoy scenic views from Mohegan Bluffs, relax on Crescent Beach, explore the shops downtown, visit the lighthouses, and savor fresh seafood. Many visitors enjoy renting a moped to see the island.
Yes, Block Island offers several walking paths and trails, including coastal walks and trails around the bluffs. The 19-mile perimeter walk is a popular challenge for avid hikers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Block Island offers a variety of dining options, from casual beachside bars like Ballards to charming cafes like Persephone's Kitchen and restaurants serving fresh seafood on Water Street.
Many restaurants offer fresh seafood, including lobster rolls. Water Street is a good place to start, and places like The National are often recommended.
While some dining can be upscale, you can find more affordable options like donuts from Payne's Donuts or grabbing a quick bite at a casual cafe. Packing snacks can also help manage costs.
Yes, several places offer breakfast. Persephone's Kitchen is a popular spot for breakfast and coffee, and many cafes in the downtown area will have morning options.
Mudslides at The Oar are a classic Block Island drink. Ballards Beach Club is also known for its lively bar scene and various cocktails.
📸 📸 Photography
Mohegan Bluffs offer dramatic cliffside shots, the lighthouses provide iconic coastal imagery, and the charming downtown streets are perfect for capturing the island's character. Crescent Beach at sunset is also stunning.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography, especially at Mohegan Bluffs and along the coast. Midday can be harsh but good for capturing the vibrant blue water.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage before flying to ensure compliance and respect for privacy.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both wide coastal landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the bluffs and beaches.
Absolutely! The ferry ride offers fantastic opportunities to photograph the Rhode Island coastline as you depart and Block Island as you approach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Renting a moped or bike can be a fun family activity, allowing you to explore the island's sights together. +1 Consider visiting the 1661 Farm and Gardens for an engaging experience with animals. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be sure to check the ferry schedules to maximize your time on the island. 💰 Budget Travelers
+1 Renting a bicycle is generally more affordable than a moped. Look for early bird ferry deals or consider off-season travel for lower ticket prices. couples
+1 Share a lobster roll at a waterfront restaurant and catch a sunset over the ocean. Consider a stay at a charming inn or a boutique hotel if extending your visit. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Block Island Ferry System
+1 Other departure locations include Newport, RI; New London, CT; Montauk, NY; and Orient Point, NY, providing flexibility for travelers coming from different regions. It's crucial to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer season and on weekends, as spots can fill up quickly. +1 Be prepared for varying sea conditions; while many trips are smooth, rough seas can occur, making the journey more adventurous. When choosing your ferry, consider the trade-off between speed and cost. High-speed ferries offer a quicker journey, often around 30 minutes, while traditional ferries might take 55 minutes to 2 hours.
Exploring Block Island: Mopeds, Bikes, and Foot
+2 Mopeds are particularly popular for covering more ground, enabling you to easily reach distant attractions like Mohegan Bluffs and the lighthouses. +1 Bicycle rentals are also readily available and offer a more active way to see the island, with many scenic routes to discover. For those who prefer to stay active or explore the immediate vicinity of the ferry docks, walking is a great option. The downtown area, with its shops and restaurants, is very walkable, as is the path to Crescent Beach.
Some visitors even undertake the ambitious 19-mile walk around the entire island perimeter, showcasing the rugged coastline and diverse landscapes. Iconic Block Island Landmarks
+1 Visitors can descend a steep staircase to reach the beach below for a unique perspective. The island is also home to two historic lighthouses: the North Lighthouse and the Southeast Lighthouse. +1 Both offer picturesque settings and a glimpse into the island's maritime past, with the Southeast Lighthouse standing near the Mohegan Bluffs.Crescent Beach is a sprawling stretch of white sand, perfect for a relaxing day of sunbathing and swimming.
+1 The downtown area, located near the ferry docks, is a hub of activity with charming shops, art galleries, and numerous restaurants and bars, making it a lively spot to explore. +1 For those interested in local wildlife and a more rustic experience, the 1661 Farm and Gardens offers a chance to see various animals and enjoy the island's natural beauty. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit