
Great Salt Pond
A vast, protected harbor on Block Island, perfect for boating, wildlife spotting, and enjoying coastal New England charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds

Great Salt Pond
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, protected harbor on Block Island, perfect for boating, wildlife spotting, and enjoying coastal New England charm.
"Excellent place to stay if you are lucky enough to visit Block Island by private boat."

⚓ Secure Your Spot Early
Public moorings fill up fast in summer. Arrive early or book in advance if possible.
🚤 Dinghy Dock Access
A convenient dinghy dock is available for easy access to shore amenities and boat watching.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boating Paradise
Great Salt Pond
Anchor or moor in this expansive, well-protected harbor, perfect for a day of sun and sea.

Marine Life Encounters
Great Salt Pond
Witness the thrill of spotting sharks and other fascinating marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Clamming Adventures
Great Salt Pond shores
Try your hand at clamming for a true taste of Block Island's coastal bounty. Remember your license!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Block Island's Waters
Seasonal Buzz and Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⚓ Secure Your Spot Early
Public moorings fill up fast in summer. Arrive early or book in advance if possible.
🚤 Dinghy Dock Access
A convenient dinghy dock is available for easy access to shore amenities and boat watching.
🐚 Clamming License Needed
Don't forget your license if you plan to go clamming; enforcement is active.
🚲 Island Exploration
Rent bikes or scooters to easily get around Block Island and reach the pond.
Tips
from all over the internet
⚓ Secure Your Spot Early
Public moorings fill up fast in summer. Arrive early or book in advance if possible.
🚤 Dinghy Dock Access
A convenient dinghy dock is available for easy access to shore amenities and boat watching.
🐚 Clamming License Needed
Don't forget your license if you plan to go clamming; enforcement is active.
🚲 Island Exploration
Rent bikes or scooters to easily get around Block Island and reach the pond.
🦈 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for marine life, including sharks, in the pond during summer.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Great Salt Pond as an ideal spot for boaters, offering ample mooring and anchorage options with an easy-to-navigate channel. It's praised for its beautiful harbor, access to great restaurants, and the chance to witness marine life. However, some find shoreside showers challenging, and the need for a clamming license is a point of note for enthusiasts.
"Excellent place to stay if you are lucky enough to visit Block Island by private boat. There are a large number of public and private mooring balls, a good anchorage area for those that like to hang on the hook. There are also an assortment of marinas if you prefer to stay dockside. Easy well bouyed entrance channel that makes coming and going a breeze."
John Jerger
"Stayed here at anchor in July 2023. Great Dinghy Dock, a nice bar for a drink and people and boat watching."
Harvey Hensley
"Love this place, Block Island"
Valerie Lanphear
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Great Salt Pond is located on Block Island, RI. Access is primarily by ferry from the mainland (e.g., Point Judith, RI). Once on Block Island, you can reach the pond by car, taxi, bike, or scooter.
Yes, you can bring your car on the ferry, but it's often recommended to leave it behind and rent bikes or scooters on the island for easier navigation, especially around the pond.
The primary ferry service is from Point Judith, RI, operated by Block Island Ferry. There are also seasonal ferries from other locations like Newport and Fall River.
Block Island has a limited bus service, but renting bikes or scooters is the most popular and convenient way to explore and get around to places like the Great Salt Pond.
The Great Salt Pond is a short distance from the main ferry terminal in Old Harbor. It's easily accessible by a short drive, bike ride, or scooter rental.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no specific ticket required to enter the Great Salt Pond itself. Access is generally free, though mooring balls and marina slips will have associated fees.
The Great Salt Pond is a natural body of water and is accessible at all times. However, amenities like marinas and restaurants will have their own operating hours.
Yes, there are fees for public mooring balls and private marinas within Great Salt Pond. Anchoring is also permitted in designated areas, which may have associated fees or regulations.
Information on mooring availability can often be found through the Block Island Harbormaster's office or local charter companies. It's advisable to check in advance, especially during peak season.
Yes, a permit or license is required for clamming in Rhode Island waters, including Great Salt Pond. Ensure you have the correct documentation before harvesting.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, fishing, and clamming. It's also a popular spot for relaxing and watching boats.
Yes, there are several restaurants and bars located near the Great Salt Pond, offering dining with views of the water and boats. Dead Eye Dicks is a notable spot.
Visitors have reported sightings of sharks, conch, snails, and various other marine creatures. It's a vibrant ecosystem.
Yes, Great Salt Pond is generally family-friendly, offering opportunities for swimming and boating. However, supervision is always recommended, especially with young children.
Designated anchorage areas are available. It's best to consult with the harbormaster or local boaters for the most current and safest anchoring locations.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of sailboats, the harbor entrance, marine life, and sunsets over the water. The interplay of boats and the natural landscape is picturesque.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be great for capturing the vibrant blue of the water and the activity on the pond.
Yes, with patience and a good zoom lens, you can photograph various marine life, including birds and potentially larger sea creatures.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use. However, always be mindful of private property and individuals' privacy.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive harbor, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. A polarizing filter can enhance the water and sky colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
⚓ Boaters and Sailors
🎣 Anglers and Clammers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Boating and Marine Life
For those interested in a more hands-on experience, clamming is a popular activity in the pond's shallows. However, it's crucial to remember that a clamming license is required, and enforcement is in place. The presence of marine life and the active boating community create a lively atmosphere, especially during the summer months. The pond also undergoes periodic maintenance dredging to ensure channel depths, which is a significant operation involving specialized equipment.
Exploring Block Island from the Pond
Many visitors enjoy the simple pleasure of people and boat watching from the dinghy dock or a nearby eatery. The constant flow of vessels in and out of the harbor offers a dynamic visual spectacle. For those looking for a more active day, the surrounding areas offer opportunities for swimming and enjoying the coastal scenery. The island's natural beauty, combined with the vibrant activity on the pond, makes for a memorable visit.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit