🛥️ How to Get to Block Island from New York [2025 Guide]

Planning a summer escape to Block Island from New York City? You’re in for coastal charm, pristine beaches, and scenic bike rides. Located just off the coast of Rhode Island, Block Island is a classic New England retreat—but getting there from NYC requires a combination of train, bus, ferry, or car. In this complete 2025 guide, we break down all the ways to get to Block Island from New York, including schedules, travel time, and local tips to help you plan your island getaway with ease.

🚗🛳️ Option 1: Drive to Point Judith, RI + Ferry to Block Island

The most direct way to reach Block Island is to drive from New York to Point Judith, Rhode Island, then take the Block Island Ferry.

📍 Route:

NYC → Point Judith Ferry Terminal → Block Island

• Drive Time: ~3.5 to 4.5 hours (160–180 miles depending on departure point)
• Ferry Provider: Block Island Ferry (Traditional & Hi-Speed)
• Ferry Time:
  • Traditional Ferry: 55 minutes
  • Hi-Speed Ferry: 30 minutes
• Ferry Cost (Round Trip, Adult):
  • Traditional: ~$25–$35
  • Hi-Speed: ~$40–$60
• Car Ferry: Yes (only on the traditional ferry, must book in advance)

💡 Tip: Parking is available at the Point Judith terminal for ~$10–$20/day.

🚄🚌🛳️ Option 2: Train or Bus + Taxi/Uber + Ferry

Don’t want to drive? Combine Amtrak or bus to Kingston, RI, then grab a local taxi or rideshare to Point Judith for the ferry.

🛤️ Via Amtrak (Train):

• Route: Penn Station (NYP) → Kingston, RI (KIN)
• Time: ~3.5 hours
• Cost: $50–$90 (book early for cheaper rates)
• Transfer: 25–30 mins by Uber/taxi to the ferry terminal (~$30–$45)

🚌 Via Bus (Greyhound/Megabus):

• Route: NYC to Providence, RI
• Transfer: Take RIPTA bus or rideshare to Point Judith (~1 hr)

💡 Tip: Amtrak is faster and more comfortable than buses, especially during summer crowds.

🛥️ Option 3: Ferry from New London, CT (Best for Long Island Access)

If you’re coming from Long Island or Eastern Connecticut, you can board the Block Island Express ferry from New London, Connecticut.

• Drive NYC to New London: ~2.5 to 3 hours
• Ferry Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (Hi-Speed only)
• Ferry Cost: ~$50–$65 round trip
• Parking: Available near the ferry terminal (~$15–$25/day)

💡 Tip: This is the best route for visitors coming from the Hamptons or the North Fork.

✈️ Option 4: Fly from New York to Block Island (Fastest, Most Expensive)

Yes, you can actually fly from New York to Block Island—ideal if you’re short on time or craving scenic aerial views.

🛫 Flights to Block Island (BID):

• Airlines: Tradewind Aviation (from Westchester County Airport – HPN)
• Flight Time: 1–1.5 hours
• Cost: ~$250–$500 round trip (seasonal pricing)
• Booking: Advance booking required, limited service

💡 Tip: Bring only small carry-ons—Block Island’s airport has weight and luggage restrictions.

🗺️ Summary Table: NYC to Block Island Routes

Mode	Route	Total Time	Approx Cost
🚗🛳️ Drive + Ferry	NYC → Point Judith → Block Island	4.5–5.5 hrs	~$50–$80
🚄🚖🛳️ Train + Taxi + Ferry	NYC → Kingston RI → Point Judith → Block Island	5–6 hrs	~$100–$140
🚌🚌🛳️ Bus + Shuttle + Ferry	NYC → Providence → Point Judith → Block Island	6–7 hrs	~$80–$120
🛫✈️ Direct Flight	NYC → Block Island (HPN → BID)	1–1.5 hrs	~$250–$500
🚗🛳️ Drive + New London Ferry	NYC → New London → Block Island	4.5–5.5 hrs	~$65–$90

🏖️ What to Expect Once You Arrive on Block Island

Once you dock or land on Block Island, you can rent bikes, mopeds, or cars right at the port or airport. Most hotels offer shuttle service, and many travelers explore by foot or two wheels.

Top spots to visit:

• Mohegan Bluffs
• Southeast Lighthouse
• Ballard’s Beach
• Clay Head Trail
• Great Salt Pond

💡 Tip: Book summer ferry tickets in advance—weekend departures often sell out.

✅ FAQs

Q: How do I get to Block Island from New York City in 2025?

Take a train or drive from NYC to Point Judith, Rhode Island, then ride the Block Island Ferry. Alternatively, fly directly via Tradewind Aviation from Westchester.

Q: What’s the fastest way to get to Block Island from New York?

The fastest way is a direct flight from Westchester County Airport (HPN) to Block Island (BID), taking about 1.5 hours.

Q: Can I drive to Block Island from New York?

You can drive to the Point Judith ferry terminal in Rhode Island and take a car ferry to Block Island. Driving on the island is allowed.

Q: Are there trains or buses from NYC to Block Island?

Yes. You can take an Amtrak train to Kingston, RI, then a short taxi to Point Judith for the ferry. Buses to Providence also connect via local transit.

Q: How long is the ferry from Rhode Island to Block Island?

The ferry from Point Judith takes 55 minutes (traditional) or 30 minutes (hi-speed).

Trusted Sources

• Block Island Ferry
• Amtrak
• Tradewind Aviation
• Block Island Tourism Council