Crescent Beach
A crescent-shaped sandy beach about 4.8 km long on the island’s east coast. The southern section at Fred Benson Town Beach has full facilities, while the northern Mansion Beach is wilder.
Crescent Beach runs about 4.8 km north from the northern side of Old Harbor. It has fine, soft sand and gentle waves, making it Block Island’s main swimming beach. The southern stretch, Fred Benson Town Beach, has lifeguards, changing rooms and showers, snack stands, and chair rentals, which makes it family-friendly. The middle section, Scotch Beach, draws a young crowd. The northernmost Mansion Beach hides behind the dunes and takes its name from the ruins of an old mansion. It is uncrowded and beautiful. From Old Harbor, it is a 5–10 minute walk or bike ride to the southern section.
Opening hours
Open all day; lifeguards in summer approx. 09:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Block Island Historical Society
- Great Salt Pond & New Harbor
- Old Harbor
- Abrams Animal Farm
- Clay Head Nature Trail
- Rodman's Hollow
- Block Island Southeast Light
- Mohegan Bluffs