Last Updated on 11 September 2025 by Vanessa
The Blue Dory Inn is one of the top-rated accommodations on Block Island, RI.
I fell in love with its perfect, picturesque location, the owner’s warm hospitality, and the stunning design of the inn.
The real highlight, though, is Samson, a charming ginger cat who greets every guest on the front porch.
Step inside, and you’ll see why this inn feels like a home away from home.
Blue Dory Inn on Block Island
My review of the Blue Dory Inn
For our Block Island getaway, we chose the Victorian-era bed & breakfast Blue Dory Inn as our base. Its prime location, at the beginning of the picturesque Crescent Beach, just a stone’s throw away from the ferry terminal and the charming island shops, made it an ideal choice.
The inn is also renowned for its complimentary New England breakfast and their cozy Blue Dory parlor (where you’ll be served wine, hors d’oeuvres, and their famous Block Island Barnacle cookies every afternoon).
They have eleven spacious guest rooms boasting ocean or historic town views. (One of their rooms is called Avalon!)
Each features a bath (some with jacuzzi), hardwood flooring, and antique décor, creating an ambiance of elegance and charm.
It’s no wonder The Boston Best Guide has consistently named the Blue Dory Inn “Block Island’s Most Romantic Bed & Breakfast” since 1996, making it a popular choice for honeymooners.
However, we were drawn not only by the inn’s architectural beauty and its welcoming owner but, most of all, by Samson, a ginger cat who freely roams the Blue Dory Inn’s premises.
Meet Samson, the hotel cat
You can find this adorable ginger boy most often in front of the Blue Dory Inn’s entrance, where he extends a warm welcome to each and every guest who crosses the threshold.
His commitment to his role is unwavering, as he faithfully fulfills his duties day after day.
His adorable presence has captured the attention of many, leading him to even take charge of the inn’s social media accounts, showcasing his undeniable charm to a wider audience.
2023 update: Samson is, unfortunately, no longer a resident at the Blue Dory Inn. However, throughout its rich history, this bed & breakfast has always had a beloved feline resident, so it has warmly welcomed another ginger feline into their midst: the affectionate and endlessly entertaining Simon (see the last two pictures).
Practical information
Address
Blue Dory Inn, 61 Dodge Street, P.O. Box 488, New Shoreham, Block Island, USA.
Where is Block Island?
Situated within the Outer Lands coastal archipelago, Block Island is located approximately 9 miles (14 km) south of mainland Rhode Island and 14 miles (23 km) east of Long Island’s Montauk Point.
It forms a harmonious union with the town of New Shoreham, and measures only about 7 miles (11 kilometers) in length from north to south and around 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) in width from east to west at its widest point.
Despite its relatively small size, the island offers a diverse and picturesque landscape, featuring sandy beaches, rolling hills, and dramatic cliffs.
What to do on Block Island
Beaches
Block Island has several beautiful and diverse beaches. From sandy stretches like Crescent Beach (Samson’s favorite hangout) and Mansion Beach to secluded spots like Ballard’s Beach and Scotch Beach.
You can relax, swim, sunbathe, or engage in water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. There is definitely a beach to suit every preference.
Nature conservancy
Block island has many preserved natural areas, such as Mohegan Bluffs and Sachem Pond.
The magnificent clay cliffs of Mohegan Bluffs stand tall at the southern end of the island, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t miss the iconic wooden staircase that leads down to the beach.
If you are a nature enthusiast, you will also appreciate the Sachem Pond Wildlife Refuge, particularly the walking trails that wind through diverse habitats of various bird species and wildlife.
Lighthouses
Block Island is home to several historic lighthouses. For example, the iconic Southeast Lighthouse, near Mohegan Bluffs, showcases stunning architecture and provides a glimpse into the island’s maritime heritage. If you climb to the top, you’ll have sweeping views of the coastline.
The striking North Lighthouse is situated on the northern end of the island and offers panoramic vistas of the ocean and the island’s rugged coastline. It’s a picturesque spot for photography and exploration.
Block Island Historical Society
You can learn about the island’s history at the Block Island Historical Society museum. They have exhibits showcasing the island’s Native American heritage, maritime past, and cultural traditions.
Settler’s Rock
Located near Old Harbor, this historical marker commemorates the island’s first European settlers, who arrived in 1661. It’s a significant spot to understand Block Island’s early colonial history.
How to get to Block Island?
To get to Block Island and the Blue Dory Inn, there are a few transportation options available:
Ferry
The most common way to reach Block Island is by ferry. Several ferry services operate from mainland Rhode Island, specifically from the towns of Point Judith and Newport.
The journey takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.
Private boat
If you have access to a private boat, you can sail to Block Island and dock at one of the island’s marinas or anchor in designated areas. It’s important to check for any specific regulations or requirements related to anchoring or docking in Block Island.
Air travel
Block Island has a small airport called Block Island State Airport (BID). Several regional airlines offer flights from airports in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York to Block Island.
Flight durations are relatively short, usually around 20 to 30 minutes.
Once you arrive on Block Island, there are taxis, rental cars, bicycles, and mopeds available for transportation around the island. Many visitors choose to explore the island on foot, as it is relatively small and offers scenic walking trails.
Conclusion
The inn’s staff surpassed our expectations with their exceptional friendliness and warm welcome. The unexpected visit from Samson the cat pleasantly surprised us. His incredible friendliness and affectionate presence brought an added layer of warmth to our experience.
Having to say goodbye to Samson was bittersweet, but it further cemented our determination to return to this cherished haven in the times to come.
Did this review inspire you to visit Block Island and the Blue Dory Inn? Then share this post with your friends and on your social media.
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