Within the "C" shape of Boston Harbor lies a national park area consisting of 34 islands, better known as the Boston Harbor Islands. The islands—ranging from less than an acre to 274 acres—offer Bostonians a rare sense of isolation and several unique recreational opportunities.
Beaches vary from sandy to cobblestone, and swimming is
permitted on the beaches at Grape, Bumpkin, Lovells, and Peddocks Islands.
While no public fishing piers exist, many Harbor Islands offer excellent
shore-fishing spots. Hikers are welcome, and will find the most extensive
trail systems on Peddocks Island, Thompson Island, and Worlds End.
One can stroll through historic Fort Warren on Georges Island, pick
from the wild
grapevines on Grape Island, and seek out "lover's rock" on Lovells Island.
You can find lighthouses on Long Island Light, Boston Light, and Graves
Light.
Because the Harbor Islands are a stop for migratory birds,
birdwatchers may spot egrets, great blue herons, cormorants, herring
gulls, common terns, and sandpipers. Quail, pheasants, hawks, snowy owls,
and falcons
also have been sighted. Other island wildlife includes such small mammals
as rabbits, voles, and skunks.
If you'd like to stay overnight, there are primitive campsites on four camping islands, although there is no water, electricity, telephones, food, or supplies available. Some picnic areas offer grills for cooking. If you want to learn about the islands, historical and nature-centered walking tours, lectures, and demonstrations are offered.
Location
Passenger ferries depart for the islands from Boston and South Shore locations. In season, regularly scheduled passenger ferries connect to Georges Island, from which water shuttles take visitors to other islands.
Hours of operation
Most islands are open to visitors from 9 a.m. until sunset. Also for most islands, basic services and park transportation operate daily throughout summer and on weekends during fall and winter. For current hours on individual islands, visit the Boston Harbor Islands Web site.
Cost
The round-trip park ferry costs $10 for adults from all points. Special ratees are available for children, seniors, and groups. For the latest fare information and schedules, call (617) 223-8666. There is no charge for water shuttles between the islands.
Contact information
Call Park Information at (617) 223-8666.
Stop by the Boston information desks on Long Wharf and Fan Pier (seasonal) or the Department of Environmental Management office at Hewetts Cove in Hingham.
Disabled access
Georges Island offers paved and fairly level paths, and Peddocks has paved paths in the Fort Andrews area. Grape, Bumpkin, Gallops, and Lovells Islands have dirt trails or grass trails that are not conducive to those with disabilities. Ferry ramps may be steep when deboarding. Also, boat doorways and gangways of ferries may not be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs.
Special considerations
Individuals can take a 45-minute ferry ride to Georges Island. Other islands are 15 to 45 minutes away from Georges Island by ferry.
Bike riding and pets are permitted on the ferries, but only Deer Island allows bicycles, and pets are allowed only on Deer and Nut Islands.
Georges and Peddocks Islands have paved walkways suitable for baby strollers.
Georges has the only food concession—a snack bar—on the islands, but you are welcome to bring your own food and beverages to any of the islands. Alcohol, however, is not permitted. Some areas feature picnic tables and grills, but only Georges Island offers covered areas in case of rain.
Please note
Cost, hours of operation, or other information about this attraction is subject to change without notice. We suggest you confirm with the attraction prior to your visit.
