The town of New Shoreham. Only a short ferry ride from the
mainland, Block Island offers the quintessential island experience. Think food
and drinks overlooking the ocean, boutique-lined streets, spectacular natural
sights and some of the most unspoiled white sand beaches in the country.
Divided into two sections in one town, “Old Harbor” which is the original
ferry approach is where the downtown is along Ballard’s Beach, Restaurant
and Hotel/Marina. Other historic hotels such as “The National” and “Spring
House” are found. “New Harbor”, located on the far side of the island and
has expanded over time at “Champlin’s Hotel and Marina” where the Great
Salt Pond is located. Ferry’s available to Montauk, Hamptons.
Hop on a bike or moped and get exploring charming streets, dramatic cliffs,
quiet beaches and pristine nature trails. A collection of exotic and domestic animals is maintained by Justin Abrams, owner of the 1661 Inn & Hotel
Manisses. The small hobby farm between Spring and High streets is home to
lemurs, kangaroos, llamas, emus, sheep, donkeys, goats, swans, ducks, even
camels! They all live happily together on the hillside meadow south of the
hotel. Visitors are free to view the animals here all year long. A wonderful
attraction you won’t want to miss. Feed is available for the hungry goats and
emus. Accessible from dawn to dusk. The entire island is walkable, car by
ferry, local taxi services. It is 7 miles long and 3 miles wide, Block Island
covers 7000 acres. Approximately 1000 year-round residents, 15,000 to
20,000 seasonal visitors a day. New Shoreham is the smallest town in the
smallest state in the United States.
