Block Island Resorts

The Employee Experience

Block Island is the perfect summer workplace for those of you that love the outdoors! It is filled with amazing like-minded adventurous young professionals who enjoy the beautiful beaches, recreational sports (basketball, softball, soccer, and volleyball), sailing, yoga, paddle boarding, spearfishing/fishing, surfing, farmers markets, arts, skateboarding, and amazing hiking trails throughout the island! Block Island is known as the Bermuda of the North and you'll understand as you hike along its stunning cliff trails. As well as when you discover the islands many secluded beaches for sunsets and swimming. We encourage our employees to enjoy all that the Island has to offer! Our work schedules enable all of our employees to have valuable time enjoying the island's beauty and meeting new friends. You will learn so much about the hospitality industry while working for our company! The islanders and returning workers are very welcoming and love embracing new friends to the group. Most days, they'll be found relaxing together at the beach, joining together for sunsets and nightly bonfires that follow.

"Working and living on Block Island is like nothing I've ever experienced before! The scenery is unlimited and the small island community feel is present. I have made many lifelong connections with friends who I've met on Block Island. The work is not easy at times but the results are satisfying and the memories you have at the end of the summer are priceless. -Humphrey, Server, Bartender, Summer '16-'24"

"It is a very different living environment that most people are not used to. The most exciting aspect of working at The Oar is the opportunity to meet new people. I have gained a ton of knowledge and a new perspective on the food service industry from this high-volume kitchen. Another perk of this job opportunity was building connections with other seasonal employers." -Anna, Kitchen Staff, Summer '21"

"I have worked at The Oar for the year 4 summers as a server and a bartender. I have learned a lot not only as a service industry worker, but also pertaining to myself. Each year continues to get better. I have made some lifelong friends and had some amazing experiences. The high volume tests you both mentally and physically, but I wouldn't change it for the world. I can't think of a better way to spend the summer." - Stephanie, Server and Bartender, Summer '18, '19, '21, '22, '23" 

"I just finished my first summer bartending at The Oar on Block Island and honestly, I can't wait for next summer to begin. I spent the summer working hard (about 7 shifts, 6 days a week), making money, and having an incredible amount of fun. The best part of time off has to be either the beaches, watching the sunset over the bluffs, enjoying different themed bar nights, and overall never running out of new adventures. I made friends from across the U.S. and around the world. I worked harder than I ever knew I could. The only downside was the housing although it is better and cheaper than other options on the island. Make sure to bring a fan (No AC allowed), heavy blankets (it can get cold), and cleaning supplies! Overall I had a great experience and am thankful to have become a part of the Oar family." -Natalie, Bartender, Summer '19, '20 & '21(Manager)

"My first year at The Oar has been nothing short of unique. The work is hard but very rewarding and the money is unlike any other serving job. The best part of my first year was becoming extremely close with every one of my coworkers. Do not be surprised if you leave Block Island with a second family from all over the U.S. and across the globe. Housing is the only disadvantage but you will be too busy making money and out on adventures to even notice. If you are looking for good money, great friends, and stories that will last a lifetime- this is the job for you! Come ready to work hard but prepare to have the summer of a lifetime!" -Lauren, Server, Summer '19, '20, '21, & '22

"It is a very different living environment that most people are not used to; there is very limited space. The most exciting aspect of working at The Oar is the opportunity to meet new people. I have gained a ton of knowledge and a new perspective on the food service industry from this high-volume kitchen. Another perk of this job opportunity was building connections with other seasonal employers." -Anna, Kitchen Staff, Summer '21

"The difference between when you first get to the island and the middle of the season is a shock. The work is stressful although the new people and experiences make it all worth it! The best part is that there is never a boring moment working at The Oar!" -Mel, Kitchen Staff, Summer '20

"Summer 2019 was my first season at The Oar and going to Block Island ever. I worked as a host and it was my first time working in a restaurant ever. I truly knew nothing at the beginning but learned a lot and fast. I asked a ton of questions (still do at the end) and never felt that any question was dumb (even when they were). I truly loved my experience because I made friendships that will last for life. Not to mention that I had plenty of time to go to the beach and explore the island. I would definitely recommend working at The Oar!" -Rebecca, Host, Summer '21