Inns and Outs

I am frequently asked where to stay on Block Island.  I confess, I haven’t stayed in a hotel or inn here for 20 years, so I am not the most reliable person on this topic.  But, I do think it’s nice to have a list of places to recommend to people, so I set out this summer to get one.

  
I polled friends and people who have recently been to BI about where they like to stay and why.  I also did a little investigating on my own.

I am all about a view and a nice breakfast in the morning.  I also like close proximity to a post-beach cocktail or snack, so a late afternoon happy hour is lovely.  Being close to town and the beach if you are on foot / bike is important too.

Block Island definitely has a Victorian vibe.  Many places give a nod to that style, but not all.  I recommend two hotels and six inns on the island.  This is not a slight to any other place, it’s  just what came out of my Liz focus group this summer!

The Spring House Hotel

The Spring House is one of the oldest (built in 1852) and largest hotels on the island.

It has gorgeous views of the ocean, Adirondack chairs for viewing and a wraparound porch where you can grab lunch or dinner.

Chances are you will also spot a bride and groom here as you sip a sunset cocktail!

The Manisses Hotel

If you like places a little smaller, the Manisses Hotel is right down the street.

It has a lovely restaurant, seasonal garden dining and a complimentary breakfast at it’s sister hotel – The 1661 House.

Your breakfast view from 1661 House

Complimentary snacks and wine are offered in the afternoon and town is just steps from your door.

The Atlantic Inn

If I had a dollar for every time I sat on the lawn of the Atlantic Inn with my family and friends…

View from the Atlantic

Perched on a hill, the Atlantic Inn was built in 1879.  It has 21 rooms, a fine dining restaurant and a wonderful porch to hang out on all day long.

Tapas, cocktails and sunsets on the lawn of the Atlantic Inn are not to be missed!

The Sea Breeze Inn is tucked behind a high hedge with sweeping views of the water on the other side.

Seating area outside your room

Built in the 1920s and established as an Inn in 1984, the Sea Breeze sits on two acres overlooking the ocean.

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast in your room or outside looking at the view

This intimate island setting has guests booking rooms a year out!

The Sullivan House

The Sullivan House sits high on a hill overlooking The Great Salt Pond, Crescent Beach and the Atlantic.

View of The Great Salt Pond from The Sullivan House

Known as “wedding central” during high season, The Sullivan House has four guest rooms, but offers other rental houses and cottages on the property.

A 1904 true island original.

If you are looking for a place to stay in the heart of downtown, head to the Darius Inn.

  
Renovated by a pair of creative sisters in 2013, it has six rooms and five pet-friendly suites.

  
All of the rooms and suites are bright and colorful, so cute!  A hot breakfast is included.  Enjoy it people watching on your private porch.

The Old Town Inn, originally built in 1825 as a general store, is one of the few surviving buildings in the old Block Island town center.

  
The ten guest rooms were recently renovated with modern amenities.

Island produce at the Old Town Inn

And, they sell local island produce during the summer!

View from Payne’s Porch

Last, but certainly not least, Payne’s Harbor View Inn.

Built in 2001, Payne’s is the newest inn on the island.

It has lovely water views and is an easy walk to town or the beach.

    
That’s my list, enjoy!

the wry home