Latest news with #beachvacation
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Travel + Leisure
8 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Travel + Leisure
I'm Refreshing My Summer Travel Wardrobe With These 10 Packable, Vacation-ready Nordstrom Styles—From $23
Today marks the first official day of summer, which means my travel schedule is about to go into overdrive with trips to the Hamptons, Cape Cod, New Hampshire, and more on the calendar in the coming weeks. With so many beachy vacations on the lineup, I've been scouring my wardrobe for outfits to pack for my weekends away, and after a recent closet cleanout, I'm in need of a few fresh pieces to take my seasonal packing list up a notch. Never failing to deliver the high-quality wardrobe essentials of my dreams, Nordstrom's summer sale section is currently overflowing with items I'm clamoring to add to my suitcase. However, since I'm working to exercise some self control with my shopping this season, I've narrowed down my list to the 10 pieces I'm eyeing for every one of my trips this summer. From maxi dresses to breezy linen pants, these versatile staples will prepare me for every occasion—and most importantly, everything is under $100. Even on the hottest summer days, you'll rarely catch me wearing shorts, which is why I've been working on expanding my collection of loose-fitting, flowy pants to travel in. This pair from Zella has a stretchy, elastic waistband so I won't worry about it digging into my skin, and its wide-leg design won't stifle me in tight fabric or restrict movement. Plus, pleats down the front create a more dressed-up finish than other trousers in my collection, so I'll be able to style them for a fancy dinner or a day of sightseeing by simply switching my shoes and top. Best of all? They're currently on sale for 50 percent off. I've had one too many vacations on which I packed the wrong footwear and was left with blisters as my only souvenirs from the trip—but not anymore. These strappy sandals are from Vionic, a podiatrist-approved brand, which instantly elevates their status in my travel wardrobe. They're open-toed and have a platform design that keeps my feet further from the ground. The footbeds are well-cushioned with essential arch support so I can comfortably spend long days on my feet. Uppers made from supple leather will only grow softer with time, plus the adjustable buckle closure means I'll be able to alter the fit when my feet inevitably swell in the summer heat. I practically live in tank tops during the summer, but after a recent closet cleanout, I was faced with the startling realization that so many of my favorite tanks were in dire need of replacement. Since I've been a big fan of boatnecks lately, I was instantly drawn to this Free People ribbed tank top that hits at the hips and comes in my favorite deep blue shade. It's made from a super-soft cotton blend that will get increasingly more comfortable with every wear, and the simple cut gives it endless styling potential. It's on sale for 40 percent off in select shades, while plain colors like black and white are available for $38. I've come to value maxi skirts as my go-to bottoms during the summer since they allow me a full range of movement, are undeniably stylish, and (in my opinion) are far more comfortable than mini skirts. The Topshop Techy Maxi Skirt has a forgiving elastic waistband that won't dig into my skin if I wear it during a flight, and it falls right at the ankles so I don't have to think about excess fabric grazing the ground while I walk. I can already see myself styling it with sandals and a mini tank during the summer, but it'll also remain a mainstay in my wardrobe well into the fall. Even when I'm traveling, I still always make time for a quick run or long walk to stay active and maintain some semblance of a routine (can you tell I'm a type-A traveler?). So, since I try to keep my selection of workout gear fresh, I've been eyeing this sleek pair of Sweaty Betty leggings with an adjustable elastic waistband that's flattering and comfy. The thick waistband won't roll over while I'm sitting, and the stretchy polyester blend will flatter my curves without stifling me in the heat. The slate blue shade is on sale for 43 percent off right now, and they're so stylish that I could see them becoming my go-to for travel days. If you take a quick scan through my latest style Pinterest board, you'll find it's filled with images of nearly identical sweater vest-style tops with buttons down the front and a distinct '90s-era charm. Of course, after I spotted the Madewell Knit V-neck Sweater Vest, I knew it was exactly what I needed to fulfill my summer style vision—and it's currently on sale for just $39 in the perfect ivory shade. The knit top displays gorgeous detailing, including ruffles around the pointed collars and delicate embroidery down the front, and it's made from a largely cotton blend that will remain in great condition well past this season. Whether I pair it with a maxi skirt or flowy trousers, I'm sure this will be the most reached-for item in my suitcase on my next trip. If I could wear only one style of clothing for the rest of my life, there's no doubt in my mind I would opt for maxi dresses. With that in mind, this flirty and feminine option is a must-have in the most stunning dusty purple shade, and I'm already imagining myself strolling around the Hamptons wearing it on a bachelorette weekend at the end of the summer. The flowy, tiered skirt is simple but far from plain, and I'm especially enamored by the puff sleeves and ruched bodice detailing. Worn with an oversized tote bag and a pair of kitten heels, this 100 percent cotton dress will be a head-turner on my summer travel agenda—and it's under $100. I love traveling in linen. It's lightweight, breathable, and offers the perfect drape that's easy to dress up or down. Luckily, this pair of wide-leg pants delivers all of that in spades. The adjustable elastic waistband makes these trousers glorified lounge pants, so I'm positive they'll be a comfy (and stylish) choice on long flights, and they'll also match everything in my suitcase. They're great for the heat, have deep pockets for storing essentials while sightseeing, and even come in three dreamy neutral shades, although it's the black pair I'm buying while they're on sale for $56. With Cape Cod and the Hamptons on my travel agenda this summer, I'm obviously going to need to snag a new bathing suit to prepare for my beachside adventures. Lands' End is known for its high-quality garments, so naturally I'm adding this scoop-neck one-piece to my cart. It'll provide just the right amount of coverage while still looking timeless and chic. Adjustable straps will make it easy to achieve a snug and comfortable fit that won't leave me exposed if I'm struck by a rogue wave, and the fabric even provides UPF 50 sun protection which is a must for my sensitive skin. Plus, if I throw a pair of linen pants over top, this one-piece bathing suit can double as a fitted bodysuit, effectively multiplying its styling potential. After recently retiring my favorite pair of ballet flats, I almost instantly added this wine-colored pair of Jeffrey Campbell flats to my cart. I've found ballet flats to be an ideal choice for summer travel since they're lightweight, versatile, and super comfortable—and while I won't be reaching for them during the more active days on my feet, they're perfect for dinner and drinks. I adore the minimalist design of this Mary Jane style, and best of all? They're an impressive (and far more affordable) alternative to this luxe pair from The Row. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
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Travel + Leisure
3 days ago
- Travel + Leisure
I've Lived in Florida for 35 Years—These Are My Favorite Affordable Beach Vacations in the Sunshine State
With a warm climate year-round and 1,350 miles of coastline, Florida has lots of places to enjoy a beach vacation. There are deep shipwrecks, big waves, and surf culture on the Atlantic side, and sugar-white sand and eco paradises filled with mangroves and wildlife on the west side. There are quiet spots where you can relax with a book and buzzy stretches where beach volleyball and Jet Skis fuel the vibe. I came here for college, and 35 years later, I still call the Sunshine State home. Florida has grown in popularity, but some beach enclaves remain affordable. Here are some of my favorite beach destinations in Florida when you want to maximize fun in the sun while staying on a budget. Lifeguard stand in front of a beach front building.I landed in Panama City Beach (PCB) a little more than 17 years ago and always count myself lucky to call this place home. With 300-plus days of sunshine each year, it's known to have some of the world's most beautiful beaches, including some affordable spots. And thanks to 100 beach access points, it's easy to spend a day paddleboarding the gentle waves or building sandcastles. Shell Island, the seven-mile barrier island just off St. Andrews State Park on the east end of PCB, provides a private oasis where you can collect moon snails, periwinkles, and olive shells—all native to the area. My family scuba dives and we spend our time underwater exploring the coral-encrusted shipwrecks, Goliath grouper, large sea turtles, and schools of angelfish. If you prefer to stay on land, inexpensive mini-golf courses dot the beach. Locals like me know to beeline for the food trailer, Finns Island Style Grub, which serves excellent fish tacos. Visitors exploring St. Augustine. Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure Once you've had your fill of affordable attractions like taking the free ferry to Rattlesnake Island–home to Fort Matanzas, a fortified watchtower built by the Spanish in 1740—head to the 42 miles of Atlantic Ocean-facing beaches. St. Johns County Ocean Pier has a beachfront park with bocce ball courts, a playground, and a children's splash zone. I love to spend the day relaxing on St. Augustine Beach before heading to Boat Drinks bar for arguably the best piña colada in the state. And that's saying a lot—last summer, I traveled the state top to bottom, trying cocktails and meeting bartenders while writing a book called, "Florida Cocktails." Sandy walkway on St. George Island. kellyvandellen/Getty Images On the Forgotten Coast of Florida, life moves a little slower. There's shelling, bird-watching, lighthouses worth exploring, and some of the best beach stargazing at Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park. It's common to catch sea turtles nesting at dawn on the 22 miles of serene beach in early summer. Relatively untouched for the 30 years I've been coming here, it often ranks among the top beaches in the U.S. An ordinance restricting buildings above three stories has kept the high-rises and big brands at bay. When you get hungry, Paddy's Raw Bar has a bushel of oyster preparations and a tasty shrimp salad sandwich with just the right amount of mayo and dill. Stop by Aunt Ebby's Ice Cream after a day on the sand; I've been taking my kids there since they were babies. A red lifeguard stand on a Jacksonville beach. Jackson Vance/Travel + Leisure Jacksonville has 22 miles of public, pet-friendly beaches dotted with surf shops, boutiques, restaurants serving Mayport shrimp, and magical spots like Boneyard Beach. Known for having some of the biggest waves on the East Coast, it's also a surfer's paradise. Visitors and locals alike can take lessons with Saltwater Cowgirls, a crew of women instructors. Just don't leave without tasting some Mayport shrimp—Jacksonville's beaches have several stops on the Mayport Shrimp Trail, or you can swing by one of the many fish camps for fresh, local seafood. Travel writer Carrie McLaren, born and raised here, loves TacoLu on Beach Boulevard. She says, 'My family stops here for tacos, margaritas, and the street corn after a day at the beach.' Sign for Flagler Avenue in New Smyrna. Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure A little over an hour from Orlando's theme parks and 30 minutes from Daytona's high-octane activities, New Smyrna Beach offers small-town vibes with long swaths of coastline, swooping Florida shorebirds, history museums, and families on beach cruisers pedaling the sand. With 17 miles of sandy beaches and North America's most diverse estuary, the Indian River Lagoon, there are plenty of budget-conscious activities for visitors. Book an inexpensive two-hour pontoon boat tour up the Indian River Lagoon. Guided by a conservationist from the Marine Discovery Center, you'll have a chance to spot the elusive manatee, leaping mullet, and pink-hued roseate spoonbill. You can also go fishing, and drop off your catch at JB's Fish Camp, where they'll cook it to order for just $15 and serve it alongside fries and coleslaw. Coastline of Stuart, of Palm Beach County, Stuart proves a South Florida escape can be done on a budget. A county-wide four-story building height restriction means no towering structures spoil the 22-plus miles of uncrowded beaches. Speaking of beaches, they're all public, with free parking and rolling beach wheelchairs for visitors with mobility needs. Beyond the sand, more than 115,000 acres of sprawling parks and conservation land offer lots of exploration opportunities, including free guided eco tours, like sea turtle beach walks, kayak trips, birding excursions, and more. Coral Reef Park on Key Largo. lucky-photographer/Getty Images For many, a Florida Keys vacation ends in Key West, but that's not necessarily the most affordable option in the archipelago. Just a couple hours north sits Key Largo, the largest of the Florida Keys and home to several beaches. It's a more budget-friendly option, plus it has the nation's first underwater park, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where admission starts at $4.50. Soak up the sun on Far Beach, or swim to remnants of an early Spanish shipwreck 100 feet offshore at Cannon Beach. For travelers looking for affordable dining, Mrs. Mac's Kitchen, the longest-running restaurant in Key Largo, has fueled many of my personal dive trips. Sunset over Hollywood Beach. felixmizioznikov/Getty Images Located between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Hollywood offers a budget beach vacation tamer than its siblings to the north and south. Everything is within walking distance, and I never leave without a stop at Le Tub for one of their toasted coconut piña coladas. There's something about a boardwalk, or Broadwalk in this case, that makes a beach particularly attractive. The 2.5-mile pedestrian lane here is paved with bricks rather than wood, hence it's name, Broadwalk. Take in the dramatic ocean vistas plus outdoor cafes, farmers markets, juice bars, and ice cream shops while walking or roller skating (my preferred mode of transportation) the path. Two parks offer a little respite from the summer heat—paddleball is popular at the historic Garfield Street courts, and the children's water playground at Charnow Park has a whimsical dolphin fountain for kids of all ages (like me) to play in. A sandcastle in Pensacola, Florida. Pensacola Beach is home to one of the longest stretches of federally protected seashore in the U.S., Gulf Islands National Seashore. With 40 miles of soft, white-sand beaches and emerald waters, an ideal afternoon here might include swimming, snorkeling, and sandcastle building. If you visit on a Tuesday between April and October, talented local musicians provide the soundtrack to your beach getaway. Pensacola is also home to the first stop on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, so don't forget to pack your binoculars. Pensacola also includes Perdido Key, home of the Flora-Bama Yacht Club—one of my favorite places to spend a lazy afternoon at the beach. From the Jimmy Buffett and Kenny Chesney lyrics painted on the walls to the memorabilia left by musicians passing through to the unobstructed view of the sand and sea, it's a must for anyone traveling to Florida. Order one of their legendary Bushwackers and sink into island life. Bird's eye view of Manasota Key. This barrier island, between Tampa and Fort Myers, may just be the least talked about slice of paradise in the Sunshine State. Go for the beaches filled with shark teeth ripe for collecting, but stay for the Hermitage Artist Retreat, a multidisciplinary collective offering free and low-cost public events. The island is also home to nature preserves, like Lemon Bay Aquatic Preserve, which has diverse ecosystems for hiking, bird-watching, and exploring mangroves. There's parasailing, tarpon fishing, dolphin tours, and more to enjoyed. And if you find a green sea grape leaf while exploring, add a stamp and mail it as if it were a postcard for the destination—it's a little-known, time-honored tradition on Manasota Key.
Fox News
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Fox News
Supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio flaunts toned physique during sun-soaked Los Cabos vacation
Alessandra Ambrosio is making waves in Los Cabos, Mexico. The former Victoria's Secret Angel turned heads as she flaunted her fit figure in a cheeky bikini while soaking up the sun. "Beautiful days well spent in paradise," Ambrosio, 44, posted on Instagram, with a carousel of her beach getaway. In the series of sizzling snaps, the Brazilian supermodel posed on a luxurious beach, putting her toned physique on full display. The first photo showed Ambrosio lying next to crystal blue water wearing a tiny white bikini with a matching mini sarong cover-up. She topped off her look with a sun hat and sunglasses. In a carefree video, the supermodel frolicked on the beach, all smiles in a two-piece swimsuit. Ambrosio's sun-kissed skin stole the show while she basked in the golden rays throughout her vacation photos. In another bikini snap, she wore a light blue bikini and accessorized with gold-chained necklaces as her beach-waved hair blew in the wind. She was seen enjoying an infinity pool during her Los Cabos travels. The supermodel was also spotted in an olive green maxi dress with a sheer design in the middle to show off her toned abs. Waves crashed on rocks in the background as she posed in front of the ocean. Ambrosio featured several photos with her boyfriend, Buck Palmer, on her holiday in the sun. She went Instagram official with Palmer in December 2024. In 2020, Ambrosio spoke to Fox News about how anyone can accomplish fitness goals at home when gyms were closed during the pandemic."It's OK to lack motivation during this time – we are all feeling it – but it is important to make some time for ourselves, and working out is a great way to center yourself and stay fit," she said at the time. According to Ambrosio, one of her go-to workouts is yoga. "I love to do yoga as it centers me and also, at the same time, keeps me in shape," she explained. "Since there is a lot to do around the house, sometimes I don't have much time to work out, in which case I try to do some stretching and hold a plank for five to 10 minutes." The model admitted that while she's committed to eating clean on most days, she's made a few exceptions. "I have always eaten healthy, and that has not changed during the quarantine. I try to eat fresh, organic fruits and vegetables. But since I had multiple birthdays during this time, there is an occasional piece of cake incorporated in my diet," she said.
CNN
12-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
I'm over 40 and there are some bathing suits I just won't wear. Here are my favorite styles instead
Over-40 swimsuits quick picks Scoop-neck one-piece: Skims Signature Swim Scoop-Neck One-Piece Tummy-control one-piece: Cupshe V-Neck Tummy-Control One-Piece Tankini: Bleu Rod Beattie Print Ruffle Tankini Bikini bottom: Summersalt The Wrap High-Leg High-Rise Bikini Bottom Square-neck one-piece: Hunza G Square-Neck Swim One-Piece There comes a time in a woman's life when she realizes she can no longer wear certain items of clothing. For me, that moment came when I was packing for a beach vacation and was met with a sea of skimpy bikinis in eye-catching Day-Glo colors that I'd accumulated over the years. These would not do. That's not to say women over 40 shouldn't wear bikinis; I simply don't feel comfortable in the two-pieces I was wearing in my 20s and 30s. So, in search of some more flattering swimwear for my upcoming trip, I decided to call in some experts to see what I should be looking out for. If I want swimwear that fits, flatters, feels fashionable and is actually comfortable, stylist Elisa Ellis of Turnkey Style said to focus on features like 'high-waisted bottoms, ruching or twist designs. When it comes to the bust area, molded cups, built-in support and adjustable straps are nonnegotiables.' She added that 'these small details can make a big difference in how the suit fits and how confident you'll feel in it.' After an extensive search, I found that spending a little extra money on swimwear really makes a difference in the quality and fit too, which was directly proportional to how confident and comfortable I felt at the beach or lying poolside. 'There's a myth that you need to be a certain size to rock a swimsuit,' Ellis said. 'The truth? Confidence comes from the right fit, not the size on the tag. Choose a suit that makes you feel good [and] gives you confidence, and you will shine.' So, with that in mind, here are my favorite swimwear styles for women over 40. Skims Signature Swim Scoop-Neck One-Piece Black is a girl's best friend when it comes to having a slim silhouette, and this Kim Kardashian's Skims one-piece did not disappoint. Fashion stylist Sarah Nearis said Skims is one of her favorite brands for swimwear. "The brands that really know how to flatter a real woman's curves use the best material that make you feel secure and snatched, and have the cuts that hit in the right places to elongate the figure," she said. I loved the high leg of this suit, which really helped make me feel (and hopefully look) taller. Cupshe Ruffled One-Piece Swimsuit 'Ruching is wildly underrated," Ellis said. "I personally look for swimsuits with ruching because they flatter the figure and create a contoured look without making you hold your breath." She also recommends styles with a twist-front design, which she said "draws the eye inward and often includes built-in shaping panels for the tummy area." I love this colorful offering from Cupshe, which also has frills around the neckline to draw attention away from the midsection. Factory Scalloped One-Piece Swimsuit When it comes to swimwear, I tend to gravitate toward black for its slimming effects. When you are trying to hide anything you don't like about your body, black helps discreetly camouflage. Sure, it's not the most tropical of colors, but it works. What I love most about this one-piece from is the scalloped edging. It gives this otherwise boring suit a little je ne sais quoi. The swimsuit is fully lined, adjustable and super flattering. Cupshe V-Neck Tummy Control One-Piece Swimsuit Just like black, a pattern covers a multitude of sins, and I love this Cupshe one-piece for its bright colors and fun pattern. It is also very supportive around the cleavage and has ruching around the midsection. This is fast becoming one of my favorite swimsuits. Summersalt The Wrap High-Leg High-Rise Bikini Bottom I know I said I was done with bikinis, but after consulting Ellis, she said there are still ways to incorporate them into your summer wardrobe. 'Just because you're over 40 doesn't mean you have to ditch bikinis or bold colors. But you do want to look for styles that offer the right fit, structure, support and coverage for your body today,' she said. This Summersalt wrap bikini bottom — and the matching top — is flattering in all the right places and comes in a variety of colors. Hunza G Square-Neck Swim One-Piece I can't say enough about this swimsuit. At first, I balked at the price, but once I put it on, I fell in love and felt so confident in it. The crinkle fabric is both comfortable and flattering, and I really love the scoop back and high-leg cut of this style. According to Nearis, Hunza G's crinkle material is similar to ruching or draping on a dress, providing both texture and a smoothing effect to the figure. "Usually the scrunched material has a firmness in elasticity that creates more security and support, which any gal can appreciate in swimwear," she our review Bleu Rod Beattie Print Ruffle Tankini Offering more coverage than a string bikini but with the flexibility of a two-piece, we love a tankini. This one is so fun and flirty with the ruffle neckline and vibrant print. Summersalt The Sidestroke One-Piece Swimsuit I've loved Summersalt's swimwear line ever since it launched in 2017. I used to own a ton of bikinis from this brand, and they have really maintained their quality over the years. They have since been donated to my 30-year-old niece. This one-shoulder number is comfortable, flattering and looks great on any size. Lands' End SlenderSuit Tummy-Control Wrap One-Piece 'This swimsuit is bust-friendly for those with fuller chests," Ellis said. "The Slendertex fabric offers light sculpting, while the twist detail adds a flattering shape.' Like most of Lands' End's swimwear, this is available in petite, tall and long torso sizes, and it often has sales on swimwear. Boden Ruched Loop Swimsuit This one-piece has everything; ruching, a pattern that elongates the torso, a middle loop that cinches in the waist, a halter neck for support and a vintage style that screams summer. I get so many compliments when I wear this, and it looks great with a pair of denim shorts. Bleu Rod Beattie Halter Tankini The contrast white trim on this otherwise plain tankini really makes it stand out. I love a monochrome look, and I felt so confident in this suit. "I am a huge believer in, if you feel confident in a piece of clothing, then you can rock it. Whether it be a swimsuit or any type of outfit, I think it is important to enhance your favorite features and really lean into that so you feel good and confident," Nearis said. TA3 Lifty One-Piece Swimsuit This was a personal recommendation from Nearis and is also loved by our fashion editor Sophie Shaw, who said this viral swimsuit is very much worth the hype. Along with its medium compression for the tummy area, the lace-up back acts like a corset so you can tighten the fit as much or as little as you wish. Plus, the colorblocking creates a slimming illusion. The following FAQs have been answered by fashion stylist Sarah Nearis. Are tankinis most flattering for women over 40? Are tankinis most flattering for women over 40? 'Tankinis can work at any age, it really comes down to the fit and style,' Nearis said. 'Swimwear and any clothing looks best when it is enhancing your best features and silhouette. Making sure the fit and material has the best support and design to flatter your body is key.' Do high-waisted swimsuits look good on everyone? Do high-waisted swimsuits look good on everyone? 'I love a high-waisted swimsuit, no matter the age. A high-waisted swimsuit really hits at the highest and smallest part of the waist, which enhances your natural curves and shape, and elongates the legs,' Nearis said. How do you hide lower belly fat in a swimsuit? How do you hide lower belly fat in a swimsuit? According to Nearis, you can hide your lower stomach with specific silhouettes or accessories. 'It's all about finding the right pair of bottoms or a one-piece with the right material or pattern to distract from the area,' she said. She also recommends layering a sarong or skirt over your swimsuit for added coverage. For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Elisa Ellis, stylist, speaker and founder of Turnkey Style, and author of 'The Style Advantage' Sarah Nearis, fashion stylist specializing in celebrity red-carpet styling, commercial and editorial styling, as well as brand and image consulting CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, managing editor Rachel Quigley rounded up her favorite swimsuits and spoke with style experts to get recommendations and tips on the best bathing suits for women over 40.
CBS News
09-06-2025
- CBS News
Block Island on a budget: How to make the most of your summer
Sponsored by and provided by Block Island Ferry Block Island offers a picturesque escape with its pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, and charming small-town ambiance. While it may seem like a luxury destination, a trip to Block Island can be affordable with some thoughtful planning. Summertime in New England is just around the corner. Block Island is just a short ferry ride from Point Judith, Rhode Island, making it accessible and affordable to reach. Follow this guide on how to enjoy a summer vacation on Block Island without overspending and while making the most out of every moment. You know the classic jingle... "Sail away on the Block Island Ferry." The Traditional Ferry from Point Judith is the cheapest option to make the trip. There are usually nine to fifteen departure times from Point Judith per day during the summer. The Traditional Ferry is about 55 minutes, and High Speed is a half hour. For an even better deal, bring your bicycle on board for just a nominal fee, saving yourself the cost of renting a car once you're on the island. There are several paid parking lots for those who choose to drive down to the dock. Another option is the Rhode Island Public Transit's Route 69 bus, which makes the trip daily from Providence to Galilee. Once you and your crew get off the ferry, the most affordable activity is the best part of Block Island: a beach day. Access to almost all of Block Island's beaches – and beach parking – is free. Attractions like Ballard's Beach have a cover charge on the Fourth of July. Crescent Beach stays shallow for a long way out, making it a good option for walking or swimming. It has a view of town and the ferries going back and forth. Block Island also offers miles of hiking and nature trails that are open to the public. The Meadow Hill Greenway Trail is the closest to the ferry. It's about 0.4 miles and offers easy access to town. The Clay Head Preserve and Greenway Trails have views of the hills of the island as well as the ocean. Additionally, the Block Island Walking Tour starts near the ferry and provides a self-guided loop through the island's main attractions. To avoid overspending on a day trip, you may want to pack a picnic. When it comes to summer picnics, rely on easy-to-eat, heat-resistant foods. Sandwiches, cut up fruit, pasta salad, potato salad, deviled eggs, and cured meats are easy to store and will keep your crew refreshed. Make it a classic Rhode Island summer outing and enjoy your picnic on a beach or trail overlooking the ocean, or bring it to the Southeast or North Lighthouse lawns. While packing food for the day, also gather enough sunscreen and water for your group to avoid having to buy it on the island. Those looking for an overnight vacation rather than a day trip may consider a house rental on the island. Block Island hotels and inns tend to be more expensive. Most rental homes on the island offer multiple bedrooms, which makes it ideal to split the cost with friends or family. Many of the rental homes have kitchens, so you can pack food for your whole stay. Making your own meals significantly cut costs, leaving room to splurge on one or two local dining experiences. Block Island Grocery on Ocean Avenue also has prepared foods like sandwiches as well as farm-fresh produce. If you're looking for a bottle of wine to enjoy while taking in the sights and sounds of Block Island in the summertime, visit Red Bird Liquor Store. Other than going to the beach and getting some exercise, there are a few interesting options for activities. The island's beloved and quirky 1661 Exotic Animal Farm & Gardens on Spring Street is about a 9-minute walk from the ferry. It's open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily and is free to the public. The farm includes rare animals to see like red kangaroos, camels, alpacas, and a zeedonk (half zebra, half donkey). Families can visit the petting zoo and get personal interactions as well as great photos of the animals. The Glass Float Project is also free and special to Block Island. Each float is numbered, dated, and often features unique designs, such as gold leaves or colored patterns, marking the first few of the season. The floats are hidden in public spaces from early summer through October, inviting both locals and visitors to partake in the treasure hunt. Finders are encouraged to register their discoveries with the Block Island Tourism Council and are asked to take only one float per year, promoting sharing and community spirit. There are also a few indoor options for those looking to get out of the sun. Museums and programs such as the Block Island Historical Society, Southeast Lighthouse tour, and the Block Island Maritime Institute offer reasonably priced admission fees. Block Island frequently hosts low or no-cost events, from farmer's markets to art exhibits. Check local listings for what's happening during your visit. About Block Island Ferry The Block Island Ferry, operated by Interstate Navigation Company, provides year-round ferry service. With a rich history dating back to 1930, the ferry is the primary transportation link for passengers, vehicles, and freight traveling to and from the island. In addition to traditional service from Point Judith, seasonal high-speed ferries operate from Newport and Fall River, Massachusetts, offering convenient and scenic options for visitors. The ferries feature inside and outside seating, air conditioning on most ferries, concessions with snacks, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. Block Island is ideal for families and large groups to enjoy miles of scenic hiking trails and a relaxing atmosphere for those who want to take it easy. It's one of New England's hidden treasures that offers sea, sand, and sights only a short ferry ride away. Follow The Block Island Ferry on social media to keep up to date with any changes to the ferry schedule, including holidays and inclement weather. See schedules and fares here.
