Restrooms
Not AvailableNo
Food & Drinks
Not AvailableNo
Parking
AvailableYes
Nudity Policy
OPTIONALNudity is optional
The Good
- One of the quietest beaches on Block Island: Black Rock Beach is perfect if you are looking for true solitude. Even during good weather, you may only see a handful of people over several hours.
- Dramatic, wild scenery: This beach is known for its large black rock at the shoreline, steep cliffs, and rugged coastline. The contrast between the dark rocks and lighter sand is striking.
- Excellent for sunsets and photography: The cliffside views at sunset are breathtaking and well worth the effort of getting there.
- Great for surfing when conditions are right: Locals consider this one of the best surf spots on the island when waves line up.
- Beautiful hike through Rodman’s Hollow: The walk to the beach is part of the experience, passing through rolling grassy hills, ocean views, and coastal trails.
The Bad
- Not an easy beach to access: The final descent requires climbing down a steep gully using ropes. This can be intimidating and is not suitable for everyone.
- Not ideal for bulky beach gear: Carrying chairs, umbrellas, coolers, or large bags makes the hike and descent much harder.
- No facilities at all: There are no toilets, no food vendors, and no shade structures on the beach.
- Rocky in parts: Some areas have rocks and coarse sand, so water shoes are helpful.
- Not family-friendly for very young children: Due to the steep descent and rough terrain, it is better suited for adults and confident older kids.
The Naked Truth
Black Rock Beach is not about comfort, convenience, or hanging out all day; it’s about earning solitude. If you make the hike and handle the rope descent, you’re rewarded with one of the most isolated, dramatic stretches of shoreline on Block Island. It feels raw, windswept, and untouched. It's truly one of the best naturist beaches in the United States.
Even though it’s remote, nudity sometimes feels risky at the descent points. People come here for the hike, the cliffs, the surf, and the views; not for lounging or social beach time. If you want quiet, moody beauty and don’t mind effort, it’s worth it. If you want ease, shade, or swimming comfort, this is the wrong beach.
Insider Tip
Wear sneakers or hiking shoes, not sandals. If you want an easier exit, ask locals about the less rugged alternative access routes instead of using the steep rope descent.
Who's Here
Mostly naturist couples, hikers, surfers, photographers, adventurous beachgoers, and small groups of friends. You will rarely see large crowds here.
Beach Surface
A mix of rocky shoreline, black stone features, and coarse sand. Some flatter areas allow space to lay out, but this is not a wide sandy beach.
Access Difficulty
Challenging: Reaching the beach requires a 20 to 30 minute hike plus a steep rope-assisted descent.
Photos
Our Visit
Discover the beauty and freedom of Black Rock Beach, a stunning nude beach destination.
Discover the beauty and freedom of Black Rock Beach, a stunning nude beach destination.
Map
Getting There
Black Rock Beach is located on Block Island, Rhode Island, accessed via hiking trails.
By Car: Drive toward Rodman’s Hollow Parking & Trailhead or the Vaill Beach area, as Black Rock Beach itself is not directly accessible by car. Park at either location, then continue on foot. If you park near Vaill Beach, you can walk along the shoreline to reach Black Rock.
By Foot: From Rodman’s Hollow Trailhead, follow the main path straight ahead, pass several left turns, and take the final left leading toward the coast. The walk takes about 20 to 30 minutes. At the end, carefully descend the steep gully using the fixed ropes to reach the beach.
By Public Transport: Take the ferry from Point Judith, Rhode Island to Block Island. From the ferry terminal, walk or bike toward Rodman’s Hollow, then follow the hiking route to Black Rock Beach.
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