The warm ocean breeze gently rustles the beach grasses as you step onto the expansive wooden porch of the Block Island Beach House. You’ve finally arrived at this iconic New England surf hotel, ready to settle in for a laidback beachfront getaway. Located on the southern tip of Block Island, just steps from iconic Crescent Beach, the Block Island Beach House is a unique boutique hotel catering to those looking for a vintage-inspired seaside escape.
The Allure of Block Island
Part of Rhode Island’s chain of New England barrier islands, Block Island is located just 13 miles from the coast of the Ocean State. The island’s formal name is New Shoreham, and it encompasses a total area of just over 10 square miles. Ferries shuttle visitors and locals across Block Island Sound from Point Judith, allowing easy access to this beloved summertime destination.
Block Island has a storied history dating back to the 1600s when it was used as a trading post by Dutch settlers. The island is named for Dutch explorer Adriaen Block and offers a glimpse into New England’s maritime past. In 1661 it became part of the colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations and over the centuries has been an important point along Atlantic trade routes.
Today Block Island is beloved for its pristine beaches, dramatic bluffs, and quaint town centers. As a longtime popular East Coast surf destination Block Island attracts wave riders from across the region eager to take advantage of the island’s famed breaks. The island’s laidback surf culture and stunning natural scenery continue to enchant visitors more than 350 years after it was first colonized.
The Block Island Beach House Experience
Tucked away on the southern tip of the island, the Block Island Beach House overlooks Crescent Beach and the open Atlantic waters. Just a short walk from the Old Harbor and Downtown Block Island, the boutique hotel’s beachfront location offers direct access to the island’s best surf breaks.
This lovingly restored hotel originally opened in the 1870s. Today, the Block Island Beach House features thoughtfully designed rooms outfitted with relaxed, beach cottage charm and modern amenities. Vintage surf photographs, whitewashed walls, and salvaged wood accents throughout the property lend a weathered, seaside feel.
The hotel building itself is an island landmark, with its gabled roofs and wraparound porches offering guests stunning ocean views. When you stay at the Block Island Beach House you become part of an island tradition, joining the long lineage of surfers, sailors, and seaside travelers who have passed through its doors.
Boutique Beachfront Accommodations
The Block Island Beach House offers a range of tastefully appointed accommodations, from standard queen rooms to one-bedroom suites outfitted with full kitchens. Guest rooms feature private baths, air conditioning, free WiFi, and comfortable bedding. Many rooms also include porches or balconies overlooking the water, allowing you to enjoy the sights and sounds of the ocean right from your room.
Stylish beach cottage decor, including white-washed shiplap walls and rattan furnishings, adds to the laidback charm. Suites give guests extra space to stretch out and relax, including separate living areas and full kitchens. For larger groups, consider reserving the 3-bedroom Dodge Cottage located just steps from the sand. With 7 separate accommodation options, there’s a room type to match each traveler’s needs.
Prime Beachfront Location
The hotel’s premier beachfront location allows guests to enjoy sunup to sundown ocean views from their porch rocking chairs. Wake up and enjoy a hot cup of coffee while watching the morning waves roll in before heading down to the beach for a day packed with seaside fun.
Located on Crescent Beach near the southernmost part of the island, the Block Island Beach House is positioned near some of the island’s most exciting surf spots. Walk down to the point break right in front of the hotel or take a short stroll up the beach to other popular breaks like Old Harbor or Ballard’s.
The Beach House proudly operates its own Surf Shack, offering surfboard and wetsuit rentals plus surf lessons for all levels. Sign up for a lesson, then head out into the break to test your skills on your choice of longboard, fish, or high-performance shortboard.
Plenty of Ways to Play
In addition to world-class surfing, the Beach House offers numerous ways to enjoy Block Island’s spectacular shoreline. Complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas make it easy to settle in for hours of swimming, tanning, and beachcombing along the broad sandy beach. Rent a standup paddleboard and explore the waters off Crescent Beach or try your hand at windsurfing and kitesurfing, two other popular island activities.
If you’re visiting with kids, be sure to build sandcastles, fly kites, or play a game of beach volleyball right in front of the hotel. Walk north and explore the tidal pools near Scotch Beach, a lovely spot for observing marine life and natural wonders.
Afterward, rinse off with a shower on the beach before heading up to the hotel’s lively Beach Bar. Nothing refreshes after a day outdoors quite like a classic summer cocktail or local draft beer while you watch the waves roll in.
Vintage-Inspired Waterfront Dining
The Block Island Beach House is not just a hotel—it’s also home to one of the island’s best restaurants and bars. The Beach House sources seafood and produce from local farmers and fishermen, then transforms these fresh regional ingredients into artfully plated dishes.
Dine al fresco on the expansive deck with sweeping views of the Atlantic as you savor New England classics like pan-seared dayboat scallops, whole grilled lobster, and local Block Island swordfish carved tableside. In the breezy dining room, find more tables and booths accented with pops of sea glass and rattan. The vintage-inspired beachfront ambiance pairs perfectly with the menu’s coastal fare.
Head to the lively Beach Bar to sip regional wines, local beers, and the bar’s signature cocktails. Drink in hand, grab a seat around the concrete bar to play a game of cards, or pull up an Adirondack chair on the porch to chat with fellow guests. The welcoming, relaxed bar has been a guest favorite for generations.
Exploring Beyond the Beach House
While the hotel’s beachfront location offers plenty to do, you’ll also want to explore beyond the sand and surf. Start in Downtown Block Island, just a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Browse boutiques, grab an ice cream cone, and admire the island’s characteristic whitewashed cottages trimmed in gables and gingerbread details.
Nature lovers will appreciate walking the trails through Block Island National Wildlife Refuge, home to butterflies, songbirds, and other wildlife. For sweeping island views, hike up Beacon Hill and take in the panoramic vistas from the lighthouse keeper’s house.
History buffs will want to visit the Block Island Historical Society to view exhibits spotlighting the island’s past industries of fishing, wrecking, tourism, and sailing. A trip to the Block Island Maritime Institute showcases the island’s boatbuilding heritage and includes a floating boat shed you can explore.
Booking Your Island Getaway
Ready to start planning your Block Island escape? The Block Island Beach House is open from May through September and accepts reservations through the hotel’s website.
The hotel offers 72 rooms along with suites, cottages, and multi-bedroom options for larger groups. Nightly rates in 2024 start at $275 in the shoulder season and $575 during peak summer weekends. Special offers like discounted mid-week and multi-night rates allow you to enjoy the Beach House experience at the best possible value.
For the most seamless vacation booking experience, reserve direct through the hotel’s website. The knowledgeable reservation staff can answer questions, make recommendations, and handle special requests to ensure your accommodations are perfect.
Once your reservation is booked, all you need to do is pack your bags! The Block Island Beach House will provide cozy accommodations, stunning views, and island hospitality to make it a beach vacation you’ll always remember.
Rave Reviews From Past Guests
Don’t just take our word for it—see what other travelers have said about their stays at the Block Island Beach House:
“We just got back from five glorious days at the Block Island Beach House and can’t wait to return! The location cannot be beaten. Falling asleep to the sound of the ocean and waking up to beach views was amazing. Loved being steps from the sand and surf. The staff were so friendly and helpful. Tons of great recommendations on where to eat, hike, bike, etc. We tried paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing for the first time. Dinner at the hotel restaurant was five-star. Already dreaming of coming back!” – Amanda S.
“Everything about our stay was perfect. We rented one of the beachfront rooms and loved sitting on the porch looking out at the waves. The staff were incredibly friendly and went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed. We did the surf lesson which was super fun even as beginners. My favorite part was the beach bar! Grabbed a blanket, got cozy on the sand, and ordered food and cocktails from the bar. Felt like a private island experience. We’ll become regulars here!” – Ryan P.
The Quintessential New England Beachfront Escape
With its prime beach location, relaxed seaside accommodations, and gracious service, the Block Island Beach House encapsulates everything that makes Block Island such an enchanting escape. Just a short ferry ride from mainland Rhode Island, yet feeling blissfully far away, Block Island remains a quintessential New England retreat.
We invite you to join us here at the Block Island Beach House. Spend tranquil days lounging on the beach, riding the waves, and exploring the natural beauty of this hidden gem. Then pass slow evenings rocking on the porch with a locally sourced dinner and drinks as the waves roll in.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, rest, or simple quality time with loved ones, the Block Island Beach House offers an iconic island experience. We’re proud to continue our tradition of seaside hospitality and hope you’ll come to experience our little slice of coastal paradise for yourself.
Plan Your Escape to the Iconic Block Island Beach House
A stay at the storied Block Island Beach House transports you back to a simpler time of seaside vacations and surf culture. Its beachfront location, relaxed vibe, and charming amenities have made this boutique hotel a Block Island icon.
As soon as you step onto the sand and sink your toes in, you’ll understand the magic of this place. The steady rhythm of the waves, cries of circling gulls, and the salt-tinged breeze instantly soothe and relax.
Experience it for yourself by booking a getaway at the Block Island Beach House. Choose from a variety of stylish accommodations, sip cocktails as the sun sets over the dunes, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, or just settle into your Adirondack and listen to the soothing sounds of the surf.
Join the generations who have created cherished memories here on New England’s beloved Block Island. Whether you’re looking for adventure, world-class surf, or just some time away from it all, the Block Island Beach House is the perfect island escape.
