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New Shoreham, Rhode Island — the only township on Block Island, 13 miles off Rhode Island's mainland coast — takes all the best parts of New England's better-known island destinations and leaves behind the country club vibes. Gorgeous beaches with rolling dunes and bluffs? Check. Blue hydrangea bushes and old Victorian inns? Check. Fresh fried seafood, and plenty of opportunities for souvenir shopping? Check and check.

But unlike some other seasonal locales, the shops in this down-to-earth beach town are particularly affordable — and varied. Sure, there are more than a few places to pick up fudge and taffy, or overpriced sweatshirts and cotton T-shirts proclaiming their allegiance to Block Island. But there's a whole lot more, from a vintage and thrift store chockablock with retro knick-knacks to boutiques shilling handmade jewelry, home wares, and other accessories from all over the world.

Whether you're just stopping over for a day trip from Providence or New London (which is an easy train ride from New York, by the way) or shacking up for a whole week, be sure to check out a few of our favorite shops on Block Island.