getaway by megan gagnon
DESIGNER-APPROVED DESTINATIONS
left: A view of the exterior, complete with weathered shingles and Victorian details. middle: Vintage surfboards were a must for a property originally called The Surf Hotel. right: The views are unrivaled at the only oceanfront hotel.
Easy Breezy This BLOCK ISLAND gem embraces surfer style and island living
Every seat is a good one on the property’s wraparound porch.
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building’s history (it started as a cottage for the island doctor in 1873) before emerging after a full renovation in 2019 as Block Island Beach House. The reimagined resort pays homage to its storied past, with an elevated surf shack vibe inside and an outdoor space that invites guests to take in perhaps its best feature: the sweeping views of Crescent Beach. Boston firm Elder & Ash dreamed up the redesign, collecting one-of-a-kind antiques and vintage surfboards to evoke the nostalgia of the island’s original beach cottages. Styled alongside modern light fixtures and against a backdrop of statement wallpaper, the result feels fresh. Distressed wood
above: A recent
addition to the property, The Gables has one of the only pools on the island. below: The frosé is available all day at Beach Bar and will match the sunset pink sky.
PHOTOGRAPHY: READ MCKENDREE
V
isitors to Block Island know the iconic property well— with its Victorian façade and wraparound porch—a welcome sight for travelers stepping off the ferry to experience one of Rhode Island’s treasured summer spots. Locals remember it as The Surf Hotel, which anchored the small area of village shops for most of the
6/14/22 12:45 PM
