This Is Rhode Island's Quirkiest Little Town
Located about nine miles south of Rhode Island’s mainland, Block Island, home to the town of New Shoreham, feels anything but ordinary. Countless beaches stretch along the island’s shores, 19th-century lighthouses stand proudly atop bluffs and coastlines, and local inns foster a distinctive seaside spirit. It all comes together to create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the state. For travelers seeking Rhode Island’s quirkiest and most authentic side, New Shoreham is a must-visit this year.
North Shoreham and Block Island History
Block Island may be best known today for its beaches and natural beauty, but its history, stretching back centuries, is also worth mentioning. The first European to discover Block Island was Giovanni da Verrazzano, who arrived over five centuries ago in 1524! Adrian Block, a Dutch navigator, rediscovered the island in 1614, resulting in its name. A few decades later, in the 1660s, sixteen English families settled in the area, leading to its incorporation into the English Colony of Rhode Island. Interestingly enough, New Shoreham and Block Island remained neutral during the Revolutionary War, continuing to trade with both sides. Several pieces of history still remain on the island today, including two 19th-century lighthouses, the 19th-century Old Harbor, and the historic Island Free Library, which has been operating since 1875.
Block Island Beaches
Block Island has about 15 beaches along its coastline, offering plenty of places to relax in the sun! For some of the best ocean views on the island, travelers can visit North Light Beach, located at the island’s northernmost tip. Nearby stands the historic North Light, a granite and iron lighthouse dating back to 1867. From Memorial Day through Columbus Day, visitors can explore the lighthouse’s museum after admiring the surrounding views.
Mansion Beach, another local favorite, is located about 10 minutes from New Shoreham along the island’s northeastern shores. Getting its name from a former mansion that used to be in the area, this beach is often less crowded than some of the other beaches in the New Shoreham area. It also has larger waves, making it a great place for body surfing and seashell hunting.
If you are looking for a livelier beach for the day, consider visiting Ballard's Beach, home to Ballard's Beach Resort. Here, visitors can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, or even VIP cabanas. There is also an oceanfront restaurant where you can enjoy cocktails, beer, wine, and delicious dishes.
Mohegan Bluffs
In addition to exploring Block Island’s many beaches, travelers should set aside an afternoon to visit the Mohegan Bluffs. Towering about 200 feet, the bluffs stretch nearly three miles and offer incredible views from above. At the base, a secluded beach awaits adventurous travelers who descend the 141-step path leading down to the sandy shores. While exploring the Mohegan Bluffs, visitors should also stop by the Southeast Lighthouse, the island’s other historic light. Built in 1875, this granite and brick lighthouse stands 52 feet tall and is now listed as a National Historic Landmark. In the summer, the lighthouse is open to visitors and features a gift shop for souvenirs. Tower Tours are occasionally available as well, which offer guests the chance to learn more about the lighthouse’s history and the shipwrecks that lie along the island’s shores.
Culinary Scene
After a day on the beach or bluffs, travelers can return to New Shoreham for a delicious meal. For a mouthwatering smash burger, visitors can grab lunch at The Lunch Bucket, which sits above Old Harbor. Serving made-to-order burgers and hand-cut fries, this restaurant offers some of the most incredible views a restaurant can offer. Persephone’s Kitchen is a great place to stop for breakfast or lunch, offering dishes made with fresh ingredients. In addition to an extensive coffee menu, guests can order smoothies, quinoa bowls, fresh sandwiches, and more. Looking to unwind in the evening? Consider grabbing a drink at Poor People’s Pub, a neighborhood pub that serves sandwiches, burgers, mac-n-cheese, pizza, and an array of drinks. They also host several quirky events throughout the year, including a hot dog eating contest in July, and an 80s prom and Oktoberfest in September!
Local Inns
The unique atmosphere of New Shoreham carries into the evening with an overnight stay at one of its local inns. The Spring House Hotel is the largest and oldest inn on the island, dating back to 1852 and featuring 32 guest rooms in the main building. Rooms in the main building offer panoramic ocean and island views. All rooms include air conditioning as well, allowing you to stay cool after a warm day outdoors! The 1661 Inn, a family-owned resort, is another excellent local lodging option. Amenities on the property are abundant, including gardens with perennial plants, vegetables, and flowers, a farm, and beautiful seaside viewpoints. For a more intimate stay, travelers can also consider the Darius Inn, a cozy property renovated by two sisters in 2013. The inn features pet-friendly rooms, six bedrooms with private bathrooms, and a large penthouse suite on the top floor. Guests can enjoy amenities such as beach chairs and towels, a happy hour, grill access, and Wi-Fi to complement their stay.
While New England is arguably one of the country’s quirkiest regions, there is something particularly special about New Shoreham. Because of the island’s small size, the community is tight-knit, dedicated to finding new ways to have fun and bring people together. Events like Poor People’s Pub’s hot dog eating contest and the energetic beach scene at Ballard’s keep the island buzzing all summer long. To experience this one-of-a-kind atmosphere for yourself, start planning your trip to Block Island!
