New Shoreham, RI – A New England Summer Tradition
Where is New Shoreham?
New Shoreham is the only town on the island of Block Island. It can be called the smallest town in the smallest state of Rhode Island in the United States.
New Shoreham, Block Island is located approximately 13 miles off the southern coast of Rhode Island. It is considered the central hub on Block Island. Everything is easily accessible from the downtown area.
The name supposedly comes from Shoreham, England. As is typical for many places in the American colonies, they added the “New” to the front and created the name for the new town in New England. Many place names in New England were based on the original home towns of the settlers.
History of the Island
Giovanni de Verrazano was the first European known to mention the island in 1524. Adrian Block, a Dutch navigator, rediscovered the island in 1614 and named the island after himself. He was honored with the island being named after him in the long run. The original settlers were sixteen families from Massachusetts Colony and in 1664 the island became part of the colony of Rhode Island.
What is New Shoreham, Block Island Known For?
All of Block Island is considered a wonderful place from the Atlantic Ocean views and wonderful beaches to the rolling pastures and farmland. It is a wonderful place to spend a New England summer day.
The year-round population is about 1400 people but that number swells astronomically during the summer months with 15,000 to 20,000 tourists per day. Since it is an island, boating and sailing are extremely popular pastimes with locals and tourists alike.
How to Get to New Shoreham, Block Island
By Air
Traveling to New Shoreham, Block Island is very simple. You can either come by air or water.
Block Island Airport (BID) services passenger flights to and from the island. It also provides emergency medical transport to the mainland when needed. Bethany’s is the on-site airport restaurant and is within walking distance of downtown New Shoreham.
New England Airlines provides a scheduled daily air service from Westerly, Rhode Island to the Block Island Airport. The flight time is a quick twelve minutes. Westerly is easily accessible from Washington, DC, New York City or Boston via Amtrak train service. It is also located just off Route 95 and parking at the Westerly airport is free.
Private charter flights from other airports are also available. You would need to contact the charter flight company in your area directly for availability.
By Ferry
The Block Island Ferry fleet consists of six ferries run by the Interstate Navigation Company. Athena and Islander are high-speed ferries. Traditional ferries include the MV Block Island, MV Anna C., MV Carol Jean, and MV Manitou. They operate year-round transporting both people and vehicles back and forth from the island.
Point Judith, Rhode Island is the main ferry terminal and their schedule is printed here. Both high-speed and traditional ferries sail from Point Judith. Newport, Rhode Island offers the high-speed ferry which reaches the island in about one hour.
What to Do in New Shoreham
Ride the Ferry
Block Island Ferry – Getting to Block Island on the ferry is the first in the list of things to do in New Shoreham. The high-speed ferry from Point Judith takes only 1/2 hour while the traditional ferry takes approximately one hour. Enjoy the fresh Atlantic breeze and enjoy the sights as you approach the island. (more about seating and drinks if needed)
The ferry is year-round from Point Judith. Additional summer ferries are available from Newport, RI, New London, CT, and from Montauk and Orient, NY.
Visit the Lighthouses
North Light – Built in 1867, the current North Light was the fourth one constructed at the north end of the island on Sandy Point. The Lighthouse Bureau built a solid stone lighthouse that has been working steadily for more than 155 years.
The first floor is a new maritime museum and there is no access to the tower. To reach the North Light, walk about one half mile across the rocky beach at the end of Corn Neck Road.
Southeast Light – Southeast Light is located overlooking Mohegan Bluffs and the Atlantic Ocean. Made from brick and granite, the tower is 52 feet high.
The lighthouse originally stood 300 feet from the edge of Mohegan Bluffs. Over the years the rocks eroded until it was only 75 feet from the edge. In 1993, the entire structure was moved back 300 feet to its current location. A commemorative rock marks the location of the original lighthouse perilously close to the cliff.
Hiking and Walking on the Island
About 25 miles of hiking and walking paths are available to the public free of charge. Biking is not allowed on the trails. Stay on the trails to minimize coming into contact with poison ivy or Lyme disease carrying deer ticks. Dogs are allowed on most trails but must be leashed. Be aware of the danger of the bluffs and dunes which are very fragile. Stay clear of them for your own safety and the preservation of the land.
A full-color map is available for purchase for $2.00 at the Tourist Information Building in Old Harbor and highly recommended.
Rodman’s Hollow is a 230-acre glacial outwash basin on the southwest part of the island. (Black Rock Road)
Clay Head Preserve crosses bird-filled meadows and bluffs overlooking the ocean. (Corn Neck Road)
North Light Lighthouse and Beach is on the property of the National Wildlife Sanctuary and is reached by walking across rocky beach. (north end of Corn Neck Road)
Lewis-Dickens Farm of the Audubon Society of Rhode Island is a 120-acre farm with 2 easy trails and plenty of birds in the area. Dogs are not allowed here. (Cooneymus Rd)
Mohegan Bluffs are located on the southeast side of the island. This was the site of a pre-colonial battle between the Mohegans and the Niantic, with the Mohegans being forced off the cliff to the beach below.
There are 141 steps to get down to the beach which is called one of the most scenic on the island. The Bluffs stretch for almost 3 miles and soar 200 feet above the beach.
Fishing on and Around the Island
Since New Shoreham is on an island, there are plenty of places for fishing both on land and from a boat. Pompano, flounder, redfish, muskies, rainbow trout, striped bass, spotted sea trout, and steelhead are just some of fish in the area. Below is a list of some well-known fishing spots.
- Beaches at Mohegan Bluffs
- Black Rock Point
- Crescent Beach
- Entrance to New Harbor
- Great Salt Pond at the Coast Guard Station
- Southwest Ledge
All people over age 15 wishing to fish must have a valid fishing license. Check here for the regulations, including short-term licenses.
Birds in New Shoreham
Block Island is a hotspot for bird watchers year-round. The island consists of 40% conservation lands. This makes a perfect resting stop for migratory birds. More than 70 species visit the island each year.
The Office of the Nature Conservancy maintains 127 legally protected acres at the north end of the island. The Town of New Shoreham manages the property next to the refuge and maintains it as a conservation area. The Block Island Refuge is 46 acres with no trails but accessibility by walking across sandy dunes and beaches.
The threatened species of Piping Plovers are found on Block Island and this is also the home to the largest gull colony in Rhode Island.
Shopping on the Island
Block Island, RI is a popular vacation destination with a variety of shopping options. Many of these are located right in Old Harbor of New Shoreham but are seasonal and may not be opened until May. Here are some places you may want to check out:
Block Island Trading Company – This store has a wide selection of souvenirs, gifts, and clothing featuring Block Island designs.
Island Bound Bookstore – A great spot to find beach reads, Block Island history books, and children’s books.
Glass Onion – This store offers a variety of unique gifts and home decor items, as well as handmade jewelry.
The Beach Rose – A boutique that offers women’s clothing, accessories, and jewelry with a beachy vibe.
Block Island Depot – A hardware store that also sells beach gear, toys, and souvenirs.
The Farmer’s Market – If you’re on the island during the summer months, be sure to check out the farmer’s market for fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
This is just a short list of the many shopping options available on Block Island. Be sure to explore the island’s shops and boutiques to find unique souvenirs and gifts to bring back home.
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If you like reading about Rhode Island, then check out these posts next.
Visit Chepachet Village, Rhode Island
Visit Green Line Apothecary – Providence, Rhode Island
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Where to Swim
Block Island, Rhode Island has several great swimming spots. It is an island after all! Here are some of the top places to swim on Block Island:
Crescent Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches on the island, with a long stretch of white sand and clear water. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach games.
Mansion Beach: Located on the eastern side of the island, Mansion Beach is a quieter spot with fewer crowds. The water here is calm and shallow, making it a great spot for families with small children.
Scotch Beach: This beach is known for its strong surf and is a popular spot for surfing and boogie boarding. The water can be rough at times, so it’s important to be a confident swimmer if you plan to go in.
Ballard’s Beach: This beach is located near the town center and is a popular spot for swimming and people-watching. There are plenty of amenities here, including showers, changing rooms, and a restaurant. Cabanas are available for rent and include lounge chairs, a table, and a private server.
Dories Cove Beach: This secluded beach is located on the southern end of the island and is only accessible by foot or bike. It’s a great spot for swimming and snorkeling, as the water here is crystal clear.
New Shoreham and the rest of the island have plenty of places to get into the water. There are many other beaches and coves on the island that are worth exploring as well. Just be safe by following any posted signs in the area.
How to Get Around the Island
Walking: Block Island is only about 7 miles long and 3 miles wide. So walking is a popular option for getting around. Especially if you stay right in the New Shoreham Old Harbor area. Many of the main attractions and beaches are within walking distance of each other.
Biking: Biking is a great way to explore the island and is a popular activity for visitors. There are several rental shops on the island where you can rent bicycles.
Moped: These are a very popular way to get around and can be rented from several rental shops near the Old Harbor. You must have a valid license to ride one.
Cars: While there are a limited number of cars on the island, visitors can bring their own car on the ferry. You can also rent a car but be warned it is quite expensive.
Taxi: Taxis are available on the island and usually line up near the ferry dock. These are a convenient option for getting around, especially for a group with a lot of luggage. On our last trip to the island we hired a car to give us a tour around the island. The driver was fantastic and shared details about Block Island only a local would know.
Bus: The Block Island Transit System (BITS) offers bus service around the island. The buses run every 15-30 minutes and makes stops at many of the main attractions and beaches.
Where to Eat
Block Island, Rhode Island has a variety of restaurants and dining options. Here are some popular places to eat on the island:
The first two restaurants are open year round.
Eli’s: Eli’s serves farm-to-table cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. They have indoor and outdoor seating with a cozy atmosphere.
Bethany’s Airport Diner: Located inside the airport complex, dine while watching small planes land or take off. Bethany’s has a diner style setting and is a great favorite with the locals.
These restaurants are seasonal and usually open in May.
The Oar: This restaurant is known for its seafood, burgers, and cocktails. It has both indoor and outdoor seating and a fun, casual atmosphere.
Dead Eye Dick’s: Located in New Harbor, this restaurant has a great waterfront location and serves seafood and steak dishes. They also have a raw bar and a nice selection of wines.
Winfield’s: This restaurant is located in the historic National Hotel and serves American cuisine, including seafood, steak, and pasta dishes. They also have a nice selection of cocktails.
The Beachead: This casual restaurant is located right on Crescent Beach and serves seafood, burgers, and sandwiches. They have outdoor seating with a great view of the beach.
These are just a few of the many restaurants and dining options available on Block Island. Make sure to check for seasonal operating times which is usually May through September. There are also several cafes, bakeries, and ice cream shops on the island.
Where to Stay
Here are a few hotels on Block Island, RI that you may want to consider for your stay.
The Harborside Inn: This hotel is located in the heart of Block Island’s historic district and offers affordable rates, starting at around $100 per night. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the hotel is within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and the ferry. (213 Water St, New Shoreham, RI 02807)
The Spring House Hotel: This elegant hotel is situated atop a hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and offers stunning views, a spa, and a restaurant featuring farm-to-table cuisine. The Spring House Hotel is Block Island’s oldest and largest hotel. Built in 1852, the main building includes 32 guest rooms that preserve the island’s authentic New England charm. (52 Spring Street, Block Island, RI)
Best Time to Visit New Shoreham
Although you can travel to New Shoreham, Block Island all year long, the peak season is from May through the end of September. During this time the additional seasonal ferries travel from Connecticut, New York, and Newport, RI.
Most visitors are looking to enjoy a glorious New England summer day with sea breezes and sunshine.
From June to August, the average high temperature on Block Island ranges from the mid-70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (around 24-28 degrees Celsius), with occasional days reaching into the high 80s or low 90s Fahrenheit (around 30-32 degrees Celsius). The average low temperature during this time is typically in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 18 degrees Celsius).
Block Island also tends to be fairly humid during the summer months, with occasional thunderstorms and showers. However, overall, the weather is generally mild and enjoyable, making it a popular destination for all kinds of outdoor activities.
In Conclusion: New Shoreham
New Shoreham is a wonderful place to visit if you’re looking for these RI perks. It has the gorgeous sweeping Atlantic Ocean views, miles of New England coastline, and over 300 fresh water ponds.
There are also nature trails, pastures and farmland, and a glimpse into the life of yesteryear.
Come visit and learn for yourself why Block Island is a traditional Rhode Island summer destination.