Basic Information

Located just minutes from downtown Boston, the Boston Harbor Islands includes 34 islands and peninsulas spread over 50 square miles. Working with city, state, federal and nonprofit partners, the park 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.

The hub islands - Georges and Spectacle - offer a world class experience complete with hiking trails, picnic areas, interpretative walks, recreational programs, concessions and state of the art visitor centers. The more rustic islands - Peddocks, Bumpkin, Grape and Lovells - provide camping adventures that offer a unique experience for locals and visitors to the Boston area. Thompson Island is open to the public via public ferries on specified weekends throughout the summer and fall.

Allow at least a half day to see one island and a day to see more. Georges, Spectacle, and Peddocks Island have fresh water and restrooms, while Lovells, Bumpkin, and Grape island have composting toilets. There are no trash receptacles; please pack out what you pack in.

A visit to the Boston Harbor Islands is an opportunity to play, learn, serve and work within the largest recreational open space in the Boston area.

Please visit the Boston Harbor Islands organization website, BostonHarborIslands.org, for the most up-to-date information about things to do, special events, and ferry schedules.

Public ferry service has ended for the 2022 season. Visit the partnership park calendar to learn about special cruises and opportunities to visit the islands in the off-season.

 

 
view from island drumlin looking down on dock with a ferry. Background is Boston Harbor & skyline.

Know Before You Go

Get all of the information you need to know before visiting the Boston Harbor Islands.

Public ferry docked

Ferry Tickets

Public ferries will be running to Spectacle and Georges throughout the season. Buy ferry tickets on our partnership website.

 

Last updated: October 13, 2022

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

15 State Street
4th Floor

Boston, MA 02109

Phone:

617 223-8666

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