From the Author: Our family has been taking week-long vacations on Block Island for 5+ years. We love this island and know it well. If you have any questions, we respond quickly to comments!
Ocean views, live music, tiki huts…Block Island bars have it all, and more.
Whether you are looking for a refreshing drink with your family, or a late night out, I’ll help you decide which Block Island bar to visit tonight!
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LAST UPDATE:
1. Mahogany Shoals
Mahogany Shoals is part of Payne’s Dock – a family owned, generational operation that has become quite the Block Island landmark.
Between the action at the marina (100 boat slips), shop (selling sporting goods and beach supplies) and eateries (Cracked Mug and Lobster Craft), there is a lot going on in this waterfront nook.
So if you are into people watching, this is your spot!
At the bar you’ll find live music every night (in the summer) that fits in perfectly with the laid back/casual vibe of the dock.
You’ll also find people of all ages, consisting of boaters docked at the marina, locals and tourists.
In addition to the main bar on the dock level, there is more seating and a small bar upstairs on the deck. This is one of my favorite spots to catch a sunset!
Keep in mind it’s cash only at the bar. An ATM is available on-site.
2. Spring House Hotel
The Spring House Hotel is the oldest hotel on the island. You’re guaranteed to experience authentic New England charm when visiting.
In addition to eating at the Spring House Hotel, there are two bars – one outside on their wraparound veranda and another one inside.
The outside bar lets you take in an ocean view while enjoying their live music.
They have performances nightly during the summer months that range from a solo pianist to a full band.
Also outside in front of the hotel there is a large rolling grass hill that’s lined with white Adirondack chairs.
Although not situated at a proper bar, this spot is serviced by waitstaff. I personally enjoy having a drink at the Adirondack chairs with little ones in tow because it gives them a place to runaround.
Inside you’ll find another bar tucked away off of the hotel lobby. It’s a large area with plenty of seating.
You’ll get a “Great Gatsby” or “The Shining” feel when enjoying a libation here.
3. Club Soda
UPDATE: Club Soda was listed for sale in 2023. It remains open for the time being.
Club Soda is definitely the most “locals” thing I’ve done on Block Island.
The first interesting thing about this spot is the location – it’s pretty much in the middle of a residential neighborhood.
This is a very causal spot visited primarily by full-time islanders or young adults that are working/living on the island for the summer.
It’s a “no-frills” bar with lots of fun games.
Between a giant life sized chess board, connect four, pool, foosball, video games, and janga, there are some great options.
Depending on the day you’ll get to enjoy trivia, karaoke, comedy, live music, musical bingo, or a talent show.
I personally went on a night when they had live music playing – the band was great!
This bar is open daily 4:30pm-1am between April and October.
4. Captain Nick’s Rock-n-Roll Bar
Captain Nick’s is located on Ocean Avenue, shortly after you drive through the Islands only four-way-stop.
If a night of dancing, good music, and fun cocktails is up your alley, this is your spot.
I think this is one of the most popular spots on the island.
It always appears to have a full crowd and it’s probably one of the only places that might actually reach capacity on certain nights.
For live music there are two stages. The outside has a smaller stage that is usually used during the day. The indoor, larger stage is used at night.
Although the indoor venue is 21+, all ages can enjoy live entertainment on Sunday afternoons.
This is one of the only places I can remember getting carded at while on island (bouncer at the entrance).
Cash only!
Insider Tip:
Ask the bartender to sparkle you if you’re up to have an extra “glow” that might carry into your next morning.
5. Ballard’s Beach Resort
Every year when I arrive on Block Island, I always head straight to Ballard’s Beach.
Nothing makes you feel like you’re on island time more than a frozen Piña colada at a tiki bar!
This beach has several of these tiki bars. They serve delicious cocktails, beer, and wine (starting at 10am!).
As you might imagine, there’s a party vibe at Ballard’s.
During the summer months, Ballard’s has daily live music performing next to their oceanfront restaurant and inn.
Between their patio stage and inside stage they have live music pumping out from 2-10pm.
They have an entertainment calendar where you can find out who and playing and when. They have a few music festivals each summer (typically: Country Fest, Reggae Fest, and Roots and Rhythm Fest). For these performances it’s a full day event (9am-7pm).
Late night they offer campfire set ups on the sand.
Insider Tip:
Ballard’s has gone cashless!
6. Poor People’s Pub
Poor Peoples Pub is one of my favorite locations for food but it also deserves a shout out for their bar.
They pride themselves on being “nothing fancy” but this is what makes this place special.
On Friday and Saturday nights they host dance parties as well as a popular “Rehab Brunch” on Sundays ($5 mimosas!).
This is also a great spot if you are looking to catch a game – they have multiple flat screen TVs.
There is indoor and outdoor seating available. Outdoor options include a covered deck or a sun-filled patio.
If you are ever on-island in early June, they have a killer kick off season opener that includes live music and an all you can eat pig roast event.
Insider Tip:
Ask for a Brown Bag Shot!
7. Yellow Kittens Tavern
Yellow Kittens Tavern is the oldest nightclub on the island and it is THE late night spot.
With the majority of their live entertainment starting at 10pm, it’s no surprise that this is the location locals and tourists alike end their nights. It’s very common to bump into a wedding party for this exact reason.
Between DJ’s, bands, comedian shows, and Latin night, you can always expect a good time.
If late night is not for you, they also have early shows of live jazz.
Los Gatitos (the deck portion of the establishment) is open during the summer months 11:30am-7:30pm.
Insider Tip:
Make sure to order one of their delicious margaritas!
Final Word
No-frill local watering holes to fancy veranda bars, I promise Block Island will be able to suit your bar and entertainment needs, no matter what type of day/night you are seeking!
I hope this helped you find the best Block Island bar(s) during your stay! I would love to hear which one ended up being your favorite. Let me know in the comments below!
