Block Island is an island in the Atlantic Ocean approximately twelve miles south of the coast of Rhode Island. It is separated from the mainland by Block Island Sound. The United States Census Bureau defines Block Island as Census Tract 415 of Washington County, Rhode Island. As of the 2000 census it had a population of 1,010 living on a land area of 25.211 km² (9.734 sq mi). The island is a fragment of glacial terminal moraine (tracing through the Outer Lands region).
The only town on the island is New Shoreham. The island is a popular summer tourist destination and is known for its excellent bicycling. Two historic lighthouses are present on the island; Block Island North Light, on the northern tip of the island (established in 1829, current lighthouse was built in 1868), and Block Island Southeast Light, is on the southeast side of the island (built in 1875). Much of the northwest tip of the island is an undeveloped natural area and resting stop for birds along the Atlantic Flyway.
Additionally, every other summer the island hosts Block Island Race Week, a highly competitive, week-long sailboat racing event. Captains and crew compete in various classes, racing to and from the island, as well as around its perimeter. Other popular events include the annual Fourth of July Parade and celebration. During these times the island’s population can triple over the normal summer vacation crowd.
