Off the southern coast of Rhode Island is a tiny piece of heaven perfect for your last hoorah as a single lady. Read on for a guide on the perfect Block Island bachelorette party!
By Molly Clark
Getting There Boozy Style
The Block Island Ferry knows how to start a party off right. Board the hi-speed ferry from Point Judith, Newport or Fall River, Mass., settle into a spot by the window overlooking the ocean and, when the boat sets sail, order a round of bloody Marys for the girls! There’s nothing like an early morning cocktail to set the mood for a day (or weekend, or week!) of fun.
Where to Stay
Once you’re on the island, the real fun begins. You’ll have already booked rooms at the Spring House Hotel, an elegant lodging with an air of yesteryear where you and the girls can enjoy cocktails on the lawn in large Adirondack chairs facing the ocean and Old Harbor. Another great option, especially if you’re looking to stay a week or longer, is to go in together on renting a house. Check out Block Island Reservations for houses (and other hotel accommodations, if Spring House isn’t your style) or Airbnb for options.
Ocean Adventures Galore
Block Island is the perfect place for ocean enthusiasts. Hike up to Mohegan Bluffs for stunning views and that infamous 141-step staircase down to the beach, or head in the other direction for a day of relaxing on Frederick Benson Town Beach or Mansion Beach. Those looking for a more party-centric atmosphere should check out Ballard’s Beach featuring chair service, tiki bars and sand sports. Adventurous parties should book a kayaking package with Pond and Beyond Kayak, offering both rentals and guided tours.
Say “Ahhhh” at the Spaaaa
When you’re ready to wash off the sand of the day or you find yourselves with a rainy day on your hands, the spa is always a great indoor option for female bonding. Block Island has two key spots: Clayhead Salon and Spa, offering a great traditional spa menu, and Koru Eco Spa, offering a more holistic approach to its treatments.
Shop Til You Drop
And, of course, there’s plenty of spots for shopping in Old Harbor (right where the ferry lands and walking distance from Spring House). Check out the Block Island General Store for souvenirs, the Diamondblue Surf Shop for water sport essentials, the Tipsy Mermaid for preppy pink and green clothing, East of the River Nile Trading Company for boho goods or one of the antique shops just around the corner from the main strip for unique finds.
I Said a Hip Hop, Hippy Hippy to the Hip Hip Hop
When nighttime hits and it’s time to par-tayyy, there’s three main bar options, all within walking distance of one another in the Ocean Ave., locale. Head to Captain Nick’s Rock-n-Roll Bar for live music and dancing in a relaxed, beachy atmosphere, Yellow Kittens for live deejays or Poor People’s Pub for food and suds.