Tour de Northeast Part 1 - Rhode Island!

Growing up in Rhode Island, I frequently went to the beach during the summer.  As a young child, we'd go to the calm waters of Galilee or Sand Hill Cove Beach on Point Judith most weekends.  These beaches are known for very calm waters because of the breakwater formed by the rocks that lead out from the beach.  During many of these weekends, we'd find ourselves ordering clam cakes and red chowder chowda for lunch or dinner from George's and enjoying our meal while sitting on the rocks, watching the boats and ferries come in and out of Block Island Sound.

During our quick tour of the northeast, and with only 1 day in RI, I found myself excited to travel the 45 minutes to the coast from my parent's house to indulge in some childhood memories and create new ones.  Arriving just after noon, I knew we had to get some clam cakes and red chowda for lunch.  With the limited time we had before our next adventure, we made some time to sit on the rocks to enjoy the food and the view.  The crab cakes were just as I remembered them, but I felt the chowda was pretty weak. There was definitely too much broth and not enough potatoes or clams.  We decided to try some lobster lobsta bisque, which was not something I ever indulged in as a child. Since it didn't bring back any memories, it was not as memorable as my clam cakes or chowda.

 George's clam cakes, red chowda and lobsta bisque

Since Colin had never been to Block Island, and I have few memories of the place, we decided to spend the day exploring the Island.  

Our first adventure was the 55 minute ferry ride ($20.25 pp r/t). We could have spent $15 more per person for the high speed ferry that would have gotten us there in half the time, but decided we wanted to enjoy the ride.  Besides, I needed the time to read the Island brochure I picked up at the ticket window and plan our adventure!

Colin and I enjoying the view and planning what we wanted to do on the Island

Goodbye East Matunuk State Beach!

Once on the Island, we debated between mopeds and bicycles - a difference of about $48. We knew we would see more of the island with the faster mopeds, but opted to save some money and get a little exercise by renting the bikes.  I'll admit the first half hour of the trip was difficult with steep inclines as we made our approach to the lighthouse and the cliffs, but the views were worth the sweat!

The 2,000-ton Southeast Lighthouse with its gingerbread detail,
which was moved away from the water and to its current location in 1993

Payne Overlook, before our 150-foot descent down the steps of Mohegan Bluffs.
On a clear day you can see Montauk Point on Long Island, but we had a rather hazy day!

The beach at the base of Mohegan Bluffs, said to be where the 

local Manisses pinned down an attacking band of Mohegan Indians

Enjoying the cool water and wonderful views at the base of the Bluffs and debating a swim

After making the long trip back up the stairs, we were back on our bicycles and hoping for fewer hills. Thankfully, our wishes were granted and most of the journey along the southern and western part of the Island was flat. It was a beautiful, warm, summer day, with few clouds and a cool breeze off the water. Taking our time, I thoroughly enjoyed the ride and the views it had to offer. I was so happy we opted for bicycles instead of scooters once we were past the initial steep hills.

Cruising and relishing in our surroundings for most of the 2 hour ride.

Downtown/Old Harbor, returning our bikes and winding down before catching the ferry back to the mainland

Indulging in another RI favorite - Del's Lemonade!

I love Rhode Island in the summer!

What are some of your favorite memories of Rhode Island (if you've ever been)?