Block Island, Rhode Island

Block Island, an 11-square-mile seaside resort located 12 miles off the Rhode Island coast, has been heralded as "One of the Last Twelve Great Places in the Western Hemisphere." Its rolling green hills and dramatic bluffs are reminiscent of Ireland, while its beautifully restored Victorian hotels and inns preserve the elegance of a bygone era.

The island’s 17 miles of pristine, free public beaches are the main attraction of this tiny island, whose people are strongly devoted to preserving the ecology of their home. Block Island conservation groups operate a large trail system on the island, offering walking and hiking paths through grassy meadows, quiet woods and along the sandy shore.

Shops and restaurants are abundant in bustling Old Harbor, which is served by frequent ferry boats from Point Judith, RI. An hour-long ferry ride is the most popular method of traveling to the island, although some prefer to take the easy 20-minute flight from the state airport at Westerly, RI. Ferries also depart, in season, from New London, Conn., Montauk, NY and Newport, RI.

Block Island is close to home but a world away.