New Harbor Great Salt Pond
A picturesque harbor on Block Island, offering calm waters for recreation and stunning coastal views. A quintessential New England island escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
New Harbor Great Salt Pond
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque harbor on Block Island, offering calm waters for recreation and stunning coastal views. A quintessential New England island escape.
"It's a sleepy island that gets to be quite lively in summer but maintains a peaceful atmosphere year-round."
🥾 Pack Comfortable Shoes
You'll want good walking shoes for exploring the bluffs and charming island paths. :athletic_shoe:
🛶 Kayak the Pond
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of the Great Salt Pond. Perfect for a peaceful afternoon. :kayak:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Great Salt Pond Views
The entire harbor area
Serene waters perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the coastal scenery. A true island gem.
Mohegan Bluffs
Southwest coast of Block Island
Dramatic clay cliffs offering breathtaking ocean vistas and a challenging hike down to the beach.
Block Island Southeast Lighthouse
Southeast tip of Block Island
Iconic lighthouse perched on a cliff, offering stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into maritime history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Island Pace
Summer is Peak Season
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Block Island, Rhode Island… what’s going on here?
🥾 Pack Comfortable Shoes
You'll want good walking shoes for exploring the bluffs and charming island paths. :athletic_shoe:
🛶 Kayak the Pond
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of the Great Salt Pond. Perfect for a peaceful afternoon. :kayak:
Block island Southeast Lighthouse during sunrise in New Shoreham, RI, USA.
What town is the most underrated in the state?
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The island sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for your outdoor adventures. :sunwithface:
🚢 Book Ferry in Advance
Especially during summer, ferries to Block Island fill up quickly. Book your tickets ahead of time. :ferry:
Getaway ideas
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Pack Comfortable Shoes
You'll want good walking shoes for exploring the bluffs and charming island paths. :athletic_shoe:
🛶 Kayak the Pond
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of the Great Salt Pond. Perfect for a peaceful afternoon. :kayak:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The island sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for your outdoor adventures. :sunwithface:
🚢 Book Ferry in Advance
Especially during summer, ferries to Block Island fill up quickly. Book your tickets ahead of time. :ferry:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
New Harbor on Block Island is celebrated for its serene natural beauty and relaxed island atmosphere. Visitors rave about the picturesque harbor, the calm waters of the Great Salt Pond perfect for water sports, and the stunning coastal scenery. While generally loved, some find the island can be expensive, and ferry services can be crowded during peak season.
"Amazing place to visit"
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Aladdin Alaiye
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach New Harbor is by ferry from mainland Rhode Island (Galilee, Point Judith) or Connecticut (New London). Ferries arrive directly in New Harbor, making it easily accessible. :ferry:
No, Block Island is car-free for most visitors. You can bring your car on the ferry, but it's often unnecessary and expensive. The island is best explored on foot, by bike, or by moped. :bicycle:
There are two main ferry services: Block Island Ferry (high-speed and traditional) and Interstate Navigation Company (traditional). Check their schedules and book in advance, especially for summer travel. :ticket:
While there isn't extensive public transport, there are taxi services and a seasonal bus service. Renting bikes or mopeds is a popular and convenient way to get around. :bus:
New Harbor itself is quite walkable. For exploring further afield, consider renting a bike or moped from one of the many rental shops located near the ferry docks. :scooter:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, New Harbor and the Great Salt Pond are public areas and do not require an entrance fee. You only need to purchase ferry tickets to reach the island. :moneywithwings:
New Harbor is accessible 24/7 as it's a public harbor and surrounding area. However, shops, restaurants, and rental services will have their own operating hours, typically from morning to evening. :clock1:
While accessing the pond is free, there may be rental fees for kayaks, paddleboards, or other watercraft. Check with local rental shops for pricing. :kayak:
Yes, New Harbor has a marina and transient slips available for boaters. It's advisable to contact the harbormaster in advance to check availability and rates. :sailboat:
Mohegan Bluffs are a natural landmark and free to visit. There is a parking area available, which is also free. :parking:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. The harbor is a hub for water activities and offers beautiful views. :swimmer:
Yes, New Harbor has several restaurants and casual eateries, many offering fresh seafood with harbor views. You'll find options ranging from clam shacks to more formal dining. :hamburger:
Capture the picturesque harbor with its boats, the serene waters of the pond, and the dramatic coastline. Mohegan Bluffs and the Southeast Lighthouse are also iconic photo locations. :camerawithflash:
Absolutely! The calm waters of the Great Salt Pond are great for kids to swim and play. Many restaurants are also accommodating to families. :child:
You'll find restrooms, showers, boat launch facilities, and various shops for essentials and souvenirs. Rental services for bikes, mopeds, and watercraft are also readily available. :shopping_bags:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the water, explore the charming shops in New Harbor for souvenirs. A visit to the Mohegan Bluffs offers a sense of adventure, though the climb down can be steep, so keep a close eye on little ones. The Block Island Children's Museum (seasonal) is also a great option for a break from the sun. Remember to bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as island prices can be higher.
💰 Budget Travelers
Many of the island's natural attractions, like the Great Salt Pond and Mohegan Bluffs, are free to access. Enjoy swimming and beachcombing without spending a dime. Look for casual eateries like clam shacks for more affordable meal options. Booking ferry tickets in advance can sometimes offer slight discounts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Great Salt Pond
Beyond active pursuits, the Great Salt Pond is a fantastic place for leisurely relaxation. You can find spots along the shore to simply sit, enjoy the views, and soak in the island's tranquil atmosphere. It's also a popular area for fishing, with many anglers casting lines from the shore or from small boats. The pond's unique ecosystem supports a variety of marine life, adding to its appeal for nature enthusiasts. Remember to pack sunscreen and stay hydrated, as the sun can be strong even on cooler days.
For those arriving by boat, New Harbor offers marina facilities and transient slips, making it a convenient stop for sailors. The harbor itself is a picturesque scene, filled with a variety of recreational boats, from small dinghies to larger yachts. The lively atmosphere of the harbor, combined with the serene beauty of the pond, creates a unique island experience that many visitors find captivating.
Block Island's Iconic Lighthouses
The North Lighthouse, though smaller and no longer active, also holds historical significance and offers a different perspective of the island's northern shores. While the Southeast Lighthouse is the more prominent attraction, a visit to both can provide a comprehensive understanding of Block Island's maritime heritage. These structures are not just landmarks; they are symbols of the island's enduring connection to the sea and its rich history.
Visitors often combine a lighthouse visit with exploring the nearby natural attractions. The dramatic cliffs near the Southeast Lighthouse, for instance, offer stunning photo opportunities and a sense of the island's rugged beauty. Be prepared for windy conditions when visiting these exposed locations, and wear sturdy footwear.
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