Point Judith Is where our two part series begins. This segment takes us to Block Island. This 9.7 square mile island lies on the edge of the Sound and takes one hour by ferry to reach from mainland Rhode Island. The receiving port and only city on the island is New Shoreham.
Most of you know me by now but for you first timers, my name is Anthony. I will be your guide and narrator for this exciting adventure. We have been looking forward to this trip for over a year. This will be a 2-part article with each having their own exclusive video. So, sit back and enjoy one of Rhode Island’s most popular destinations.
We arrived at Point Judith an hour before the ferry’s departure. There are two choices when deciding to travel by water. There is the high speed or traditional ferry. We chose the traditional ferry which takes approximately 55 minutes versus 30.
After parking and confirming our departure time, we watched the forklifts load cargo onto the ferry’s lower hull. After all the crates were loaded, it was time for the cars and trucks. Once that was done, the stewards then allowed the passengers to begin boarding.
We found a spot on the upper deck to get a better look at the harbor. This multi-purpose waterway sits on the west side of the Narragansett Bay. It supplies fresh seafood to many of the surrounding eateries and fish markets. On this particular day, the Atlantic was a bit choppy which forced us to find a comfortable place inside. Before we knew it, we were pulling away from the dock and heading to Block Island.
Once we arrived, the town of New Shoreham was perched directly ahead of us. It was amazing how much it resembled a modest 18th century colonial township. The first two buildings that stood in front of us were the Star Department Store and Seafood Market Place.
Before checking into our room, we strolled along Water Street. It looks like most of the structures have been renovated and were kept as close to their original state as possible. This is not unusual for many of Rhode Island’s historic and colonial townships. The downtown buildings are mostly occupied by hotels with restaurants on the 2nd floor and boutique shops below. Water Street is appropriately named because of it amazing views of the harbor and Atlantic Ocean.
Block Island has many unique and one of a kind homes. The year-round population is approximately 1,400 residents. When the warmer months arrived, you will see an influx of visitors and seasonal homeowners.
As we were walking to our hotel, we passed a home with quite an exhibit. It had the bow of a sailing ship and a loading plank. I thought about asking for permission to board.
After a good nights sleep and nourishing breakfast, we headed out in search of Block Island’s Mohegan Bluffs. It really wasn’t much of a search, but it was a two mile walk from where we were staying.
Once we got to Block Island’s Mohegan Bluffs, we stood at the top of the cliff and looked out at the horizon. We also spotted the 141 steps that will take us down to the beach.
I read about the historical event that took place on the bluffs. It included a native tribe who suffered a tragic lost. In 1590, 40 Mohegan Indians attacked the Manissean tribe. The Mohegans were beaten back and forced off the cliff to their death. The site’s given namesake, The Mohegan Bluffs marks the spot where this historic battle took place.
We took the stairs down to a somewhat rocky beach. However, there are areas where people can place beach chairs and make a day of it! There are also a few places where you can get into the water. You can enjoy other activities like working on your tan, walking along the shore or just enjoying the ocean itself! The sound of the waves can keep me entertained for hours.
After taking in the fabulous views and surrounding landscape, it was time for us to move on. There is another nearby attraction that we need to see before it gets to late. Shall I give you a hint?
My partner and I looked up at where we needed to go and yes, it will be a climb. However, the steps are well maintained and there are several landing spots where you can catch your breath. Its not a bad setup.
Please note that there are no elevators for a wheelchair or walker. If you have any physical limitations or respiratory conditions, this is not a trip for you. However, there is an observation deck just to the left of the stairs. It too has great views!
We hope you enjoyed this segment of our two-part series. The attached video provides more of a true-to-life experience of Block Island’s Mohegan Bluffs. Stay tuned for the rest of this exciting adventures!
Photography: Anthony & Maureen Scopel
Video: Anthony & Maureen Scopel
Article Creator & Formatting: Anthony Scopel
Video Production: Anthony Scopel & Matt Kemper
Associate Editor: Maureen Scopel
Technical Mastering & Web Support: Matt Kemper
Publishing Provide By: You, Me and The Dock
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