Sail to Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

Explore the Boston Harbor Islands

If you're looking for a great outdoor adventure in the greater Boston area, consider taking a ferry ride (operating from mid-May through mid-October) to the Boston Harbor Islands. This group of 34 islands in Massachusetts Bay offers a variety of activities and sights, including historic sites, hiking trails, beaches, and diverse wildlife. Popular islands include Spectacle, Georges, and Peddocks, with ferries also servicing Lovells, Grape, Bumpkin, and Thompson. Here are some highlights:

Spectacle Island

Spectacle Island spans 114 acres and is ideal for hiking. The island features 5 miles of trails, including one that leads to the harbor's highest hill, offering stunning views of Boston's skyline.

Lovells Island

If you're in search of a sandy escape, Lovells Island is a perfect choice. The island offers secluded shorelines and tide pools. During low tide, an additional 71 acres are revealed, expanding the island's landmass significantly.

Georges Island

Georges Island is a history enthusiast's dream. It houses Fort Warren, a site used by the U.S. government during the Civil War for patrolling, training Union troops, and detaining Confederate prisoners. Peddocks Island, one of the largest in the Boston Harbor, is renowned for its camping opportunities and scenic hiking trails that traverse coastal forests and headlands connected by tombolos. The island also boasts the largest beach in the harbor and historical structures such as Fort Andrews and a World War II-era restored chapel.

The Boston Harbor Islands are easily accessed from downtown Boston. Travelers enjoy the boat journey as much as the island adventures, particularly the historical Fort Warren on Georges Island.

Pricing

While visiting the islands is free, access is only possible via ferry. Round-trip tickets cost $24.95 for adults and $17.95 for children. Departure times vary based on the season, day, and destination. Direct ferries are available to Georges Island and Spectacle Island.

For additional information, visit the Boston Harbor Islands' website.