Winners of 2024’s “Best Harbor in the U.S.” Contest Announced by US Harbor

The winning harbors include several surprises: harbors appearing for the first time on the “Best Harbor” list.

Rockport, MA – US Harbors (usharbors.com), has announced the winners of their 5th annual contest to find the “Best Harbor” in the U.S. This crowd-sourced contest, open to the public for voting, is held online each year. People vote on their favorite harbor out of the 1500+ harbors for which US Harbors provides tidal and coastal weather data. Communities with the most passion for where they live, boat, and fish generally end up winning the event, and the 2024 winners include several new harbors that were not previously in the winners’ circle.

Grand Winner, Best Harbor in the U.S. for 2024: Block Island, RI Top 10 Results: 

1.    Block Island, RI (also 2024’s Northeast regional winner; first time on winners list) 
2.    Destin, FL (also 2024’s Gulf Coast regional winner; first time on winners list) 
3.    Padanaram, MA (2019 “Best Harbor” Grand Winner) 
4.    Bristol, RI (first time on winners list) 
5.    Shelter Cove, Hilton Head, NC (also 2024’s Southeast regional winner; and Southeast regional winner in 2022 and 2021) 
6.    Pillar Point, Princeton, CA (2024’s Pacific Coast regional winner; first time on winners list) 
7.    Gloucester, MA (first time on winners list) 
8.    Charlevoix, MI (2021 “Best Harbor” Grand Winner; also 2024’s Great Lakes regional winner) 
9.    Brookings, OR (first time on winners list) 
10.  DepoeBay,OR (2022“BestHarbor”GrandWinner) 

Other 2024 Regional Winners: 

• Oyster Bay, NY (2024’s Mid-Atlantic regional winner)

About Block Island, RI – 2024’s “Best Harbor” in the US 

Block Island, just a short ferry ride from Rhode Island, is a beautiful little getaway with rolling hills and lovely beaches. The island’s vibe is relaxed and charming, perfect for biking, hiking, and exploring its stunning nature trails. With nearly half of the island dedicated to conservation, it’s a haven for wildlife and offers spectacular views from spots like Mohegan Bluffs and the iconic Southeast Lighthouse. The main village, Old Harbor, is full of cozy shops, delicious restaurants, and plenty of spots to just sit back and soak in the island’s laid-back atmosphere.

Comments from 2024 Voters About Block Island 

•    “I sailed to Block Island from Stamford CT for 20 years. I stayed in the Great Salt Pond in one of the 3 marinas or if they were full on a town mooring or at anchor. I fell in love with Block Island and now live here.” Bennet W. 
•    “Such a magical spot! We love it so much we’re getting married there in August!” Luke B. 
•    “Because of the efforts of the Block Island Community and a strong environmental ethic, along with the support of environmental groups, the Great Salt Pond remains protected and a treasure of nature.” Douglas M. 
•    “Best Boating overnight harbor period!” Richard C.