Here’s a little secret that might change your whole approach to Block Island: you don’t need a car. Seriously. In fact, leaving the car on the mainland might be the best decision you make for your trip.
The island is just 7 miles long and 3 miles wide. That’s it. You could technically walk from one end to the other in a couple hours, though you’d probably stop a dozen times for the views. Most visitors who bring cars end up barely using them, just paying for that pricey ferry spot while their ride sits parked at the hotel.
Why Car-Free Is the Way to Go
Let’s talk money first. Bringing a car on the Block Island Ferry from Point Judith runs about $60-80 each way on top of your passenger ticket. That’s over $120 round trip just for your vehicle. Skip the car and you’ve got yourself a nice dinner at a waterfront spot, maybe a couple mudslides at Ballard’s, and still have cash left over.
But it’s not just about saving money. Going car-free changes how you experience the island. You’re not rushing from Point A to Point B. You’re actually in it, smelling the salt air, hearing the waves, stopping whenever something catches your eye. That’s the Block Island vibe, and you miss it from behind a windshield.
Bikes: The Island’s Real Transportation
Beach cruisers are basically the official vehicle of Block Island. You’ll see them everywhere, lined up outside restaurants, parked at beach entrances, leaning against porches. There’s a reason for that: bikes are perfect here.
The island has some hills (Mohegan Bluffs didn’t get that name by being flat), but most roads are totally manageable on a casual cruiser. Plus, the distances between spots are ideal for biking. Old Harbor to New Harbor? About 10 minutes. Town to Ballard’s Beach? Maybe 5 minutes. Town to the Southeast Light? A solid 20-minute ride with a workout at the end, but worth every pedal for that view.
Where to Rent
Several shops right near the ferry landing rent bikes by the hour, half-day, or full day. Expect to pay around $25-40 for a full day rental. Most places include locks and baskets. A few things to know:
- Reserve ahead during peak summer weekends
- Electric bikes are available if hills intimidate you
- Tandem bikes exist for couples who trust each other
- Kids’ bikes and trailers available at most spots
Pro tip: grab your bike early in the morning. By 11am on a July Saturday, the rental shops can run low on the good cruisers.
Walking: Totally Doable for Town Days
If you’re staying near Old Harbor (where the main ferry lands), you can honestly walk to most things you need. The town is tiny and charming, packed with shops, restaurants, and bars all within a few blocks. Grab breakfast, wander into some boutiques, get lunch, catch a sunset drink. All on foot, all easy.
Walking is also the best way to explore some of the island’s quieter spots. The Greenway trails wind through the interior, past stone walls and wildflowers. The walk from town to Crescent Beach takes maybe 15 minutes. And there’s something nice about strolling down a sandy lane after dinner, no parking to worry about, no keys to find.
Taxis and Rideshares
Block Island has taxis, and they’re pretty easy to grab. Drivers hang out near the ferry landing when boats come in. You can also call ahead or ask your hotel to arrange a pickup. Rates are reasonable for the island size, usually $10-20 to get anywhere.
A few local drivers also do informal rideshare stuff. Your inn might have a recommendation. It’s a small island with a small-town feel, and people are generally happy to help you get where you need to go.
For a deeper dive on all your options, check out our complete transportation guide.
Mopeds and Golf Carts
Want something with a motor but not a full car? Mopeds and golf carts are popular rentals. Mopeds zip around easily and park anywhere. Golf carts are fun for groups and give you that breezy, open-air feeling.
A few notes: You need a valid driver’s license for mopeds. Golf carts have some restrictions on certain roads. Both require a security deposit. But they’re a great middle ground if you want motorized convenience without the ferry car hassle.
A Perfect Car-Free Day
Let me paint you a picture of how this actually works.
Morning: Walk from your inn to a coffee shop in town. Grab breakfast at one of the spots with harbor views. Stroll down to the bike rental and grab a cruiser for the day.
Late Morning: Bike up to the North Light. It’s a beautiful ride through rolling terrain, and the lighthouse at the tip of the island is worth the trip. Pack some snacks.
Afternoon: Coast back down to Ballard’s Beach. Lock up the bike, grab a spot on the sand, maybe rent a cabana if you’re feeling fancy. Mudslides are mandatory. The live music usually kicks in around mid-afternoon.
Evening: Bike back to town (it’s close), shower up at your hotel, walk to dinner. After, grab a drink somewhere with a view and watch the stars come out. No designated driver needed.
That’s a full, perfect Block Island day. And at no point did you need a car.
Tips for Going Car-Free
- Pack light: You’ll be hauling your own bags from the ferry. Rolling suitcases work on the paved areas, but duffels are easier overall.
- Book accommodations in or near town: Being walking distance to restaurants and the harbor makes everything easier.
- Bring layers: You’ll be outside more than you’d be with a car. The ocean breeze feels great until it doesn’t.
- Get a basket for your bike: You’ll want somewhere to stash a towel, sunscreen, maybe a bottle of wine for a beach picnic.
- Download offline maps: Cell service is spotty in places. Having the island map saved helps.
When You Might Actually Want a Car
Look, there are some situations where a car makes sense. If you’re traveling with very young kids and all their gear, mobility issues, or planning to stay for a week or more with a lot of luggage, the convenience might outweigh the cost.
But for most weekend trips and summer getaways? Save your money and embrace the slower pace. That’s what Block Island is all about anyway.
Looking to stretch your budget even further? Check out our guide to Block Island on a Budget for more money-saving tips.
The Bottom Line
Block Island is one of those rare places where not having a car actually improves the experience. You’re more present, more relaxed, more connected to the island’s laid-back spirit. You’ll cover just as much ground, see just as much beauty, and probably have more fun doing it.
So leave the car in Point Judith. Hop on that ferry as a foot passenger. Rent a beach cruiser when you land. And settle into the rhythm of an island that’s best explored slowly.
