The Boston Harbor Islands
An easy and special retreat from the city life, a trip out to the Boston Harbor Islands is the perfect day date from spring through the fall. You really don’t have to go far away to get that feeling of being away from it all. A beautiful day on one of the harbor islands can feel like a mini vacation without having to leave town or sit in traffic all day. There are 34 islands to explore right in the city’s harbor. They are all just an easy ferry ride from long wharf away. There are also a few free ferry days throughout the season making it even easier to plan a day out on the islands (the parks participate in Free Fun Fridays sponsored by Highland Street Foundation, check the park calendar for details and current dates). Public moorings are also available in the park so you can also take your own boat. The are so many events planned over the season to schedule your visit around. You could also plan a camping trip to the islands if you wanted even more of a retreat into nature and time to explore! Peddocks, Bumpkin, Grape and Lovell Islands all offer overnight camping. Camping here is a unique experience offering the escape out of the city into nature but still with the sunset city views! There is also the opportunity to book a Boston Harbor light house tour during the summer months. There are so many adventures to be had in the harbor island parks. All of the islands have their own unique features and history, the most popular for a day visit include Georges Island, Spectacle Island, Peddocks Island, and Lovells Island.
A day on Spectacle Island
One of our favorite islands to visit for an afternoon is Spectacle Island. Spectacle Island is perfect for a quick day trip at only 20 minutes from Downtown Boston. You can take a ferry from long wharf over or even dock a private boat and begin your adventure. Once ashore, there are so many ways to enjoy your hours here. Spectacle Island offers hiking trails, ranger led programs, swimming during the summer months, and always lots of breath taking harbor views! This island has the highest point in Boston Harbor so its views are truly a fantastic part of a visit here. Just lounging on the adirondack chairs at the visitor center and taking it all in is amazingly relaxing. You can bring your own picnic lunch or stop in the visitor center and grab some lighter fare at Salty’s (a cafe concept between the Barbara lynch group and Boston Harbor Cruises). Salty’s offers fresh seasonal food with everything from classic grilled cheese, PB & J to a fresh quinoa bowl. Spectacle Island is just a beautiful spot to relax and reconnect.
617-223-8666; www.bostonharborislands.org
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