Considering a day trip to Block Island next weekend with DH. I expect we can take early ferry from New London and return in the late afternoon/early evening. I wanted to have one last summer beach day and I have never been to this island. We often go to Cape Cod and also like Newport. This seems quieter, which is fine. It looks like we could spend a little time at the beach, do a little hiking and then explore the town. It looks scenic and friendly. We are not into heavy duty hikes but do enjoy lighter hikes. It looks like the worst part is hiking up to the bluffs.
I would love to bring our small dog but it looks like they have to be crated on the boat ride over and that could be a hassle as she would probably bark the whole trip from being confined. and then what to do with the crate once there. : (
I would love to hear from anyone who is familiar with the island. Is everything still open in September? Is is worth the trip? We also considered Montauk but coming from the Hudson valley side, it seems to be a more complicated day trip.
I haven’t been there in years (used to sail there up from Long Island Sound), but from what I recall it was very pleasant. This time of year on the weekend a lot is probably still open, lot of places become weekend only, plus the week after labor day is often still considered summer season in many resort areas as well. Places don’t usually start shutting down for the season until late september in many places, so you should be fine.
The week after Labor Day is a fabulous time to go. Everything will still be open. I do not advise your bringing the dog; it will genuinely hamper your activities. You may want to rent bikes, because walking to the bluffs is about a five-mile (one-way) walk.
Most people here say Block Island in September is the best time to be there. Many fewer people. The air can feel alive. Same is true with the Vineyard.
So timely! H and I are taking the ferry from New London to Block Island tomorrow morning for the day. Taking our bikes. NOT taking the dogs. Will report back.
My aunt has a house on Block Island, so I’ve been there many times, most recently for day trips. I’ve seen lots of dogs on the ferries, always on a leash, but never crated (although I’ve never been on the high speed ferry, so I don’t know if their rules are different). Be sure to check the ferry schedule before you go - I think it changes after Labor Day.