The National is one of the most recognizable landmarks in all of Block Island — it’s hard not to draw your attention to the big Second-Empire style resort hotel overlooking the ferry landing with flags fluttering from its turrets when you pull up into the harbor. The location in the center of Old Harbor is one of its major selling points; situated only a two-minute walk from the boat, it’s a breeze to check-in and find yourself sitting on the front verandah with a cocktail watching the sunset only a few minutes later. The hotel also happens to be the closest big hotel to the beach, with “Baby Beach” only a five-minute walk away. Rooms themselves are about what you’d expect from an aging dame — though recently renovated, there is only so much a fresh coat of paint can do for a 100-plus year-old seaside hotel, and some of the rooms are a bit worn and musty. If you plan on spending most of your vacation outside anyway, however, it’s a good choice for the convenience and closeness to the action.