Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area (U.S. National Park Service)

QUICKLINKS:

Here is a place . . .

. . . where you can walk a Civil War-era fort, visit historic lighthouses, explore tide pools, hike lush trails, camp under the stars, or relax while fishing, picnicking or swimming—all within reach of downtown Boston. Youth programs, visitor services, research, wildlife management, and more are coordinated on the park’s 34 islands and peninsulas by the Boston Harbor Islands Partnership.

Visitor Guide

You can participate in self-guided and ranger-led tours of the islands, activities for families, performances, and a variety of special events. Two islands have direct ferry service from the mainland; three others offer camping a short walk from the shore. Full details about visiting Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area can be found at BostonHarborIslands.com, the Partnership's Visitor Guide.
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		Islands to Explore Join a Boston Light Tour on Little Brewster Island, the oldest light station in the country. Georges Island is home to Fort Warren. Enjoy the 1850s fort, picnic areas, and a snack bar. Spectacle Island features a marina, visitor center, cafe, a swimming beach, and five miles of walking trails. Go island hopping to Peddocks, Grape, Bumpkin, or Lovells. Explore on your own or take a ranger-led tour. more...

		Island Facts Each of our 34 islands and peninsulas has its own unique character and history. Learn the details on a fact sheet for each one. How large is an island? Well, in the ocean, that depends on whether it is high or low tide. What's in a name? more...

IslandCache Program

The IslandCache Program guides visitors through the islands' military and maritime histories, as well as the natural and cultural resources on the islands. Using a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit and clues provided by the IslandCache Site Sheets, visitors can guide themselves to one or all of the sites.
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Write to

Boston Harbor Islands Partnership
408 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 228
Boston, MA 02110

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information
(617) 223-8666

Fax

(617) 223-8671

Climate

Summer weather is changeable, so bring a jacket or windbreaker, a hat to shade the sun, and sun block.