Five Things to Do on Block Island, Rhode Island

Block Island, an island of just under 10 square miles, is located 12 miles off the coast of Rhode Island and 13 miles from the tip of Long Island. The tiny island is a favorite of summer vacationers looking for a less commercial spot to enjoy sun, sand and wildlife. A full 20 percent of Block Island is set aside as wildlife refuges and the Nature Conservancy ranked the island among its "Last Great Places" in the world to visit. If you are headed to Block Island this summer, be sure to include the following in your plans:

1. Relax on the beach. Block Island may be a little place, but there is no shortage of beaches. The island boasts more than a dozen stretches of sand, on all sides of the island. Among the most popular are Fred Benson Town Beach, a family-friendly beach on the east side of the island; the quieter Mansion Beach, also on the island's east side, and Andy's Way on the south side of Block Island, a spot that's good for clamming during the summer.

2. Tour the Lighthouses. Block Island is home to two historic lighthouses. The brick Southeast Lighthouse (pictured above) was constructed in 1875, and has a 52-foot tower. Summer visitors can tour the facility as well as visit the small museum and gift shop. The stone North Lighthouse was built in 1868 and served as a lighthouse until 1973. The site was relighted in 1989 as a private navigational aid, and today visitors are welcomed at the interpretive center on the structure's first floor.

3. Visit the Block Island Historical Society. The Block Island Historical Society is located in the center of town, in a circa-1871, three-story house with a sweeping front porch. The museum features a comprehensive display of artifacts, decorative arts and photographs, illustrating the island's history from the time of the Native American tribes to the present. The Block Island Historical Society is open during the summer months, everyday except for Tuesday, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for seniors and students (2011 prices.) Those under 16 years of age are admitted free.

4. Sample fresh seafood. If you're looking for fresh-off-of-the-boat seafood, Block Islands doesn't disappoint. The island's specialties are clam chowder (served as a clear broth, Rhode Island style) and fresh, whole lobster. Popular eateries include Finn's, near the Block Island ferry landing, the Harbor Grill and Ballard's.

5. Go birding at the National Wildlife Refuge. Established in 1973, the 133-acre collection of refuge land is noted for its large concentration of migratory songbirds. More than 250 bird species call Block Island home, of which 70 species are songbirds. Visitors to the Refuge can tour the visitors center and explore the hiking trails. The refuge is open from dusk to dawn daily.

Other Travel Articles by Sandy Mitchell
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Keeping it Weird in Austin
Where to Stay in Ohio's Wine Country

Sources:
Block Island Chamber of Commerce
Block Island Vacations: Beaches
Block Island Lighthouses: Southeast Light
Block Island Lighthouses: North Lighthouse
Block Island Vacations: restaurants