Block Island RI (Rhode Island)

Block Island is a compact, scenic destination where Old Harbor can be explored easily on foot. Reaching the island’s signature cliffs, lighthouses and quieter beaches requires a taxi, bicycle or organized tour.

Independent sightseeing: Easy around Old Harbor; independent with some planning or transport for the wider island.

Getting Ashore and Around

Block Island has no conventional cruise terminal. Larger visiting ships normally anchor and take passengers ashore by tender, while arrangements for small vessels may vary. Follow the ship’s instructions for the exact landing point and final tender time.

Passengers landing in Old Harbor arrive beside the island’s main cluster of shops, restaurants and historic buildings. The visitor center, bicycle and moped rentals, taxis and nearby beaches are within walking distance.

• Walking: Best for Old Harbor and nearby beaches. Some roads outside town have limited or no sidewalks.
• Taxi: The easiest option for Mohegan Bluffs, Southeast Lighthouse or a short island tour. Arrange the return journey in advance during busy periods.
• Bicycle: Practical for active visitors, but roads are shared with cars and mopeds, and several routes are hilly.
• Moped: Covers the island quickly but is best only for confident riders accustomed to narrow, shared roads.
• Public transport: There is no regular island-wide bus system for independent sightseeing.

Best Ways to Spend the Call

Explore Old Harbor on Foot

Allow 1.5–3 hours for the waterfront, Water Street, local shops, Victorian-era buildings, the Block Island Historical Society area and a nearby beach. This is the simplest choice for a short call or for passengers who prefer to remain close to the tender landing.

Mohegan Bluffs and Southeast Lighthouse

The bluffs are approximately 4 km (2.5 mi) from Old Harbor, about 10 minutes by taxi or 15–20 minutes by bicycle. The final approach is uphill. The Southeast Lighthouse stands nearby, allowing both sights to be combined in about 1.5–2.5 hours with transport.

The upper overlook provides coastal views without descending to the beach. Reaching the shoreline involves 141 steep steps followed by uneven rocks. The climb back is strenuous and unsuitable for passengers with limited mobility. The beach has no lifeguards or restrooms, and the surf can be strong.

Cycle the Southern Island

The official southern bicycle circuit is approximately 12.1 km (7.5 mi) and includes Mohegan Bluffs and other scenic areas. Allow roughly 2.5–4 hours, depending on stops and fitness. Expect hills, narrow roads and mixed traffic. A shorter out-and-back ride to the lighthouse is more realistic when time ashore is limited.

Beach Time Near Town

For a relaxed visit, walk north from Old Harbor toward Surf Beach and the Crescent Beach shoreline. These beaches are more practical during a cruise call than remote stretches of coast. Swimming conditions and staffed facilities vary by beach and season, so observe posted warnings and allow time to change before returning aboard.

Take an Island Highlights Tour

A taxi tour or organized excursion is the most efficient way to combine the bluffs, Southeast Lighthouse, rural scenery and additional coastal viewpoints. This is preferable for passengers with limited time, those who do not want to cycle, or anyone concerned about securing return transport.

Self-Guided Old Harbor Walking Tour

Route: Approximately 3.2 km (2.0 mi), 40–50 minutes of pure walking and 1.5–2.5 hours with stops. The route includes gentle slopes and sections beside roads with limited sidewalks.

1. Visitor Center: Begin near the Old Harbor landing and check local maps or any same-day access notices.
2. Water Street: Walk through the compact commercial center, passing waterfront buildings, shops and restaurants.
3. Oceanview Pavilion area: Continue toward the open coastal viewpoint above Old Harbor.
4. 1661 Inn Farm and Gardens area: Follow Spring Street uphill for rural scenery and elevated views.
5. Block Island Historical Society: Return toward town via the historic district. Interior access is seasonal, but the area remains a useful walking stop.
6. Solviken Preserve: Add a short natural section if trail conditions and available time permit.
7. Beach access: Make a brief shoreline stop before returning to town.
8. Old Harbor landing: Complete the loop along Water Street.

This route is practical independently and keeps passengers close to the ship’s landing point. Skip the outer stops if tender queues or weather reduce the available time ashore.

Practical Tips

• Tender operations can be delayed or suspended by wind and sea conditions.
• Allow at least 45–60 minutes beyond the ship’s stated boarding requirement when returning from elsewhere on the island.
• Reserve or confirm a return taxi before leaving Old Harbor, particularly during summer and holiday periods.
• Wear sturdy footwear for the bluffs, nature trails and roadside walking.
• Bring water and sun protection; shade and facilities are limited away from town.
• Lighthouse interiors, museums, rentals and some restaurants operate seasonally. Confirm availability after arriving rather than building the entire visit around one indoor attraction.
• Passengers with restricted mobility should check tender requirements with the cruise line and enjoy Mohegan Bluffs from the upper overlook rather than attempting the beach stairs.