Location
United States
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Adults only
Terrain
Rock
Best season
July to September
About Black Rock Beach
Black Rock Beach is a remote stretch of shoreline on the south coast of Block Island, Rhode Island, west of Mohegan Bluffs and below the Rodman's Hollow conservation area. It takes its name from a large dark rock at the waterline, and it sits under steep clay and glacial bluffs. The beach is narrow and mostly cobbles, boulders and coarse sand, with a few flatter patches to lie on, and the surf can be good for surfing when the swell lines up. It is one of the quietest beaches on the island because there is no road access. It has a long reputation as a clothing-optional spot; Rhode Island Monthly now describes it as formerly clothing-optional, with some people still going nude. Visitors are a mix of naturist couples, hikers, surfers and photographers, usually in small numbers. There is no shade and no facilities, and the descent is challenging. A separate, better-known clothing-optional section lies below Mohegan Bluffs to the east.
Getting there
Take the ferry from Point Judith (or seasonal fast ferries) to Block Island, then bike or drive to the end of Snake Hole Road or to the Rodman's Hollow trailhead. From there a walk of about 20-30 minutes leads to the bluff edge, and the final descent is a steep gully that some routes equip with fixed ropes. An alternative is to walk the shoreline from Vaill Beach. Parking is very limited and informal. Wear proper shoes and carry little. Not wheelchair accessible.
What visitors say
Visitors describe an isolated, wild beach with very few people even in good weather, rewarding views and a rugged, rocky shoreline that suits walkers and surfers more than swimmers. Common warnings are the difficult descent and boulder fields, and the lack of shade or services. Opinions differ on how much nude use remains: some listings still call it clothing-optional, local media call it a former nude beach.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
Nudity is not designated anywhere on Block Island; Rhode Island law prohibits indecent exposure. No recent enforcement at Black Rock was found as of 2026; nude use is informal and has declined.
Naturism at Black Rock Beach sits under United States's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: United States public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 41.1479, -71.5902
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in United States
Frequently asked questions
Is Black Rock Beach still clothing-optional?
It has a long nude reputation, but local media now describe it as formerly clothing-optional with some people still going nude. Expect a mix.
How hard is it to get down?
Hard. Routes from Snake Hole Road or Rodman's Hollow end with a steep gully descent, sometimes using fixed ropes; wear proper shoes.
Are there facilities?
None. Bring water, food and sun protection.
Is there another nude area on Block Island?
Visitors also report a clothing-optional section of the beach below Mohegan Bluffs.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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