Who says you have to travel to the Caribbean to get some island vibes when Block Island is just a ferry ride away?
While a popular vacation destination welcoming thousands of seasonal visitors a day, New Shoreham - the town which encompasses all of Block Island - is a year-round island community of about 1,000 residents right off the coast of Rhode Island.
"Block Island truly feels like a vacation even if I'm going for a day. You can immediately feel the stress melting away the minute to step on the ferry," said Kazantzis Real Estate Owner and Agent Andrea Kazantzis. "With breathtaking ocean views, more than 300 freshwater ponds, walking trails, pristine beaches, quaint shops, and vibrant nightlife it's no wonder people from around the world flock to Block Island every year."
Sail Away
The most popular way to get to the island is by ferry, with boats leaving from Point Judith in Rhode Island and New London in Connecticut.
The Block Island Ferry operates a fast ferry that departs from Port Judith, Rhode Island, and takes about a half-hour from port to port. If you're not in a rush and want to enjoy the ride (or save a few bucks), there's also a traditional ferry that takes about an hour.
Block Island Ferry also has ports in Newport and Fall River, but those routes are currently on hold.
If you need to get their quicker, the Island is also accessible by air. New England Airlines has been servicing the island since 1970, offering flights out of Westerly. Time in the air will be about 12 minutes.
Welcome to The Block
When you arrive in port, the first thing you will see on your left will be Ballard's Beach Resort. This iconic location offers live music on its free private beach. There's no better way to feel like you're on vacation than sipping on a fresh pineapple drink. Ballard's also has a restaurant and hotel.
In the downtown area, you'll find charming boutiques, ice cream shops, and diverse restaurants ranging from fine-dining to beach shacks.
"You can't go to Block Island without sitting at The OAR and drinking their famous mudslides," said Kazantzis Real Estate Agent Jennifer Lehto. "I love feeling like you're on a vacation far away, but really only a 45-minute ferry ride from home."
Things to Do
Photo: Poland Media Group
"There are so many things about Block Island that I love," Lehto said. "Block Island is your home away from home. You have the exotic petting zoo for your kids, the Mohegan Bluffs where you can relax by the water all day or explore the rocky terrain."
One of the most beautiful parts of the island is Mohegan Bluffs where a set of 141 steps leads down to the beach. At the base of the 200-foot clay cliffs, you'll find perhaps one of the most spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.
If you want to explore the island - which is more than 43% preserved open space - you can rent a moped or take a bike tour.
For those looking for some exercise, activities on Block Island include bike riding, hiking, horseback riding, bird-watching, snorkeling, fishing, parasailing, kayaking, and sailing.
While there are plenty of hotels, inns, and bed & breakfasts on the island, many people choose to stay at beach houses throughout the island.
Whether you're in the market for a second home or want to become one of Block Island's full-time residents, Kazantzis Real Estate has several listings you may want to check out.