1. Cow Cove - 10-minute drive from Old Harbor
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Location:
Cow Cove, North Light Area, Block Island, Rhode IslandRecommended For:
History buffs, nature lovers, photographers, and beachgoers seeking scenic views, historic landmarks, and wildlife sightings in a serene setting.What I Love: ♥
The breathtaking coastal views, historical significance with landmarks like North Light and Settler’s Rock, and the peaceful presence of migratory birds in the wildlife refuge.- Admire the stunning natural beauty that has earned Cow Cove a reputation as one of the most picturesque beaches on Block Island.
- Visit the historic North Light lighthouse, built in the 19th century, featuring a small summer museum open on weekends.
- Reflect at Settler’s Rock, a monument honoring the English settlers who arrived in the 1600s.
- Spot wildlife at the Sachem Pond Wildlife Refuge, especially migratory birds that frequent the northern shoreline and pond area.
Cost:
Free public access. Some walking required to reach the beach and landmarks—bring sturdy shoes and sun protection.Best time to visit:
Late spring through fall for ideal hiking and birdwatching conditions. Visit on weekends in summer to access the lighthouse museum.Local tips:
The beach is pebbly and remote—great for quiet reflection and photography rather than swimming. Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching, and carry water and snacks as amenities are minimal.Distance:
Located at the northern tip of Block Island, about 3.5 miles from Old Harbor—approximately a 10-minute drive or 45-minute walk.How to Get to Cow Cove:
From Old Harbor, head north via Corn Neck Road until you reach the parking area near North Light. A short walk across dunes and coastal trails will lead you to Cow Cove and its surrounding landmarks.2. Charlestown Beach - 10-minute drive from Old Harbor
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Location:
Charlestown Beach, western shoreline of Block Island, Rhode IslandRecommended For:
Families, sunset seekers, photographers, and anyone looking for a peaceful, sandy spot to relax and enjoy harbor views.What I Love: ♥
The soft sands and shallow waters ideal for families, postcard-worthy sunsets over the ocean, and the gentle rhythm of boats passing in and out of New Harbor nearby.- Watch the sunset over the Atlantic—Charlestown Beach’s westward-facing position makes it one of the best spots on Block Island for golden-hour views.
- Play with the family in the shallow surf—kids can safely wade and build sandcastles while parents enjoy a relaxing picnic nearby.
- Relax near New Harbor and enjoy watching sea traffic and sailboats drift by while soaking in the laid-back island atmosphere.
- Wade safely along the shoreline, but be cautious—waters further out can become choppy, so full swimming is not recommended.
Cost:
Free public beach access. Limited nearby parking available; biking or walking from New Harbor is a convenient option.Best time to visit:
Late afternoon to sunset for beautiful skies and cooler temperatures. Weekdays are quieter, making it ideal for peaceful family outings.Local tips:
Bring your own beach gear—there are no facilities or concessions. Great spot for beach games and reading with fewer crowds than other island beaches. Keep an eye on children near the water due to occasional surf shifts.Distance:
About 2.5 miles southwest of Old Harbor—approximately a 10-minute drive or 20-minute bike ride.How to Get to Charlestown Beach:
From Old Harbor, follow Ocean Avenue west toward New Harbor, then take West Side Road to Champlin Road and look for beach access signs. The beach is located along the western shoreline near the harbor entrance.Romantic Beaches on Block Island, RI:
3. Baby Beach - a 15-minute walk through town
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Location:
Baby Beach, eastern shore of Block Island, Rhode Island – tucked away in a quiet, local-favorite spotRecommended For:
Families with young children, local beachgoers, and anyone looking for a calm, hidden gem on Block Island.What I Love: ♥
The gentle, shallow waters perfect for little ones, the peaceful atmosphere away from tourist crowds, and its reputation as a local favorite with a safe, relaxing vibe.- Discover this hidden gem on the eastern shoreline, loved by locals but often missed by tourists due to its tucked-away location.
- Play safely with young children in calm, shallow water—ideal for babies and toddlers to splash around with confidence.
- Relax on a quiet beach that never gets overcrowded, making it a perfect low-key option for families or couples looking for a peaceful beach day.
- Park on nearby residential streets—there’s no dedicated parking lot, but the light foot traffic means spots are usually easy to find.
Cost:
Free public beach access. No on-site parking or amenities—bring everything you need for your visit.Best time to visit:
Mornings and early afternoons for gentle sunshine and fewer beachgoers. Ideal during summer months for warm, calm water conditions.Local tips:
Pack light and bring snacks, sunshade, and beach toys—there are no facilities. It’s a great first beach stop for young families new to Block Island.Distance:
Less than 1 mile from Old Harbor—about a 5-minute drive or a 15-minute walk through town.How to Get to Baby Beach:
From Old Harbor, head east along Water Street or High Street toward the east coast. Use local street parking and follow footpaths to access the beach directly from the shoreline near Surf Hotel or Corn Neck Road.4. Surf Beach - 10-minute walk from Old Harbor
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Location:
Surf Beach, eastern side of Block Island – conveniently located near the Block Island Visitor's Center and the historic Surf Hotel (now the Block Island Beach House)Recommended For:
Snorkelers, beachcombers, families with curious kids, and anyone looking for easy beach access near downtown with fascinating marine life.What I Love: ♥
The shallow waters teeming with sea life, the beach's central location close to Old Harbor, and its history tied to the Surf Hotel, now a vibrant boutique getaway.- Explore the rocky shallows filled with crabs, starfish, and small fish—making Surf Beach a top pick for beginner snorkelers and marine life enthusiasts.
- Relax on a conveniently located beach just steps from the Block Island Visitor’s Center and central lodging options.
- Learn about the beach’s namesake, the former Surf Hotel, now the Block Island Beach House, which overlooks this tranquil coastline.
- Discover unique rock formations beneath the surface, offering excellent conditions for underwater photography and exploration.
Cost:
Free public beach access. Limited public parking nearby, but easily walkable from town and ferry terminal.Best time to visit:
Mid-morning through early afternoon for best snorkeling visibility. Ideal during warmer months when marine life is most active.Local tips:
Bring water shoes and a mask/snorkel set for optimal exploration. Since it’s near downtown, this beach can be busier—go early or visit in the late afternoon for a quieter experience.Distance:
Less than 0.5 miles from the Block Island Ferry Terminal—about a 5- to 10-minute walk from Old Harbor.How to Get to Surf Beach:
From the ferry landing at Old Harbor, walk south toward the Block Island Beach House on Dodge Street. Beach access is located directly behind the hotel and adjacent to the Block Island Visitor’s Center.Family Beaches on Block Island, RI:
5. Black Rock - 30-minute bike ride from town
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Location:
Black Rock Beach, Block Island, Rhode Island – located on the southern shoreline, near Vaill BeachRecommended For:
Experienced surfers, adventure seekers, sunset watchers, and those looking for a wild, secluded stretch of coastline with dramatic views.What I Love: ♥
The powerful waves ideal for surfing, the iconic black rock landmark at the beach’s edge, and the untouched natural beauty that makes this a spectacular off-the-beaten-path destination.- Surf the largest waves on Block Island—Black Rock is the go-to destination for serious surfers who want to ride challenging swells.
- See the beach’s namesake—a giant black rock perched at the far end of the beach, marking the edge of this rugged shoreline.
- Connect to nearby Vaill Beach, another great surfing spot located along the same stretch of coast.
- Relax with dramatic views and a secluded atmosphere—ideal for a quiet hike, a beachside sunset, or simply appreciating the island’s natural power.
Cost:
Free public beach access. No amenities or parking lots on-site—this is a remote location best reached on foot or bike.Best time to visit:
Early morning for surfers and late afternoon for sunset views. Avoid on windy days unless you're there to ride the waves.Local tips:
Wear sturdy shoes for the hike in, and bring everything you need (water, snacks, towel)—the beach is undeveloped and wonderfully wild. This is not a swimming beach—currents and waves are strong.Distance:
About 3.5 miles from Old Harbor—approximately a 15-minute drive or 30-minute bike ride, followed by a short walk to the beach.How to Get to Black Rock Beach:
From Old Harbor, take Mohegan Trail south toward Black Rock Road. Park near the trailhead and follow footpaths to the beach. The terrain is rugged, so be prepared for uneven ground and scenic cliffs.6. Mohegan Bluffs - 10-minute drive
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Location:
Mohegan Bluffs, southern coast of Block Island, Rhode IslandRecommended For:
Hikers, photographers, history enthusiasts, and beach lovers seeking dramatic coastal views and a uniquely memorable beach access experience.What I Love: ♥
The breathtaking 200-foot cliffs, the rewarding trek down to the secluded beach, and the sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean that make this one of Block Island’s most iconic natural landmarks.- Admire the dramatic cliffs—Mohegan Bluffs rise approximately 200 feet above the Atlantic and provide some of the best photo ops on the island.
- Climb down more than 100 steep wooden steps to reach a narrow but stunning stretch of beach tucked beneath the cliffs.
- Learn the history—this site is named for a 16th-century battle between the Mohegan and Niantic tribes that occurred near the bluff's edge.
- Enjoy a peaceful and awe-inspiring escape—this area remains relatively undeveloped, giving visitors a rare and rugged coastal experience.
Cost:
Free public access. Limited parking available near the trailhead on Mohegan Trail.Best time to visit:
Mid-morning to sunset for the most dramatic lighting on the cliffs. Late spring through early fall offers the safest and most comfortable hiking conditions.Local tips:
Wear sturdy shoes for the descent to the beach, and be prepared for a challenging climb back up. Bring water and sun protection, as there are no facilities on-site. The view from the top is spectacular even if you don’t make the full hike down.Distance:
About 2.5 miles from Old Harbor—approximately a 10-minute drive or 25-minute bike ride south along Mohegan Trail.How to Get to Mohegan Bluffs:
From Old Harbor, follow Spring Street south until it becomes Mohegan Trail. Look for signage and the small parking area near the steps leading down to the bluffs.7. Block Island Map with Beaches & Conclusion
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Most visitors who head out to Block Island spend most of their time on the island's sandy beaches, which can be found all around the extensive coastline.
Some of the beaches are relatively developed, with useful amenities and easy accessibility, while others are a little trickier to get to but offer unique views and incredibly peaceful atmospheres at any time of year.
Whether you're looking to admire a natural site like the Mohegan Bluffs or a man-made landmark like the North Lighthouse at Block Island's Sandy Point, you'll find a lot to love about Block Island beaches.
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