Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

Travel | Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

Did you know the Boston Harbor is dotted with national park islands? The Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area includes 34 islands and peninsulas.

My youngest sister joined me on a visit to Spectacle Island and Worlds End Island.

Spectacle Island was a beautiful thirty minute ferry ride through the Boston Harbor. We hiked the various island trails over the course of a few hours and enjoyed a picnic lunch with a view of the Boston skyline.

Worlds End Island, located in Hingham, was accessible by car. A late afternoon hike was perfect. Highlights included the Damde Meadows Tidal Marsh and walking along The Bar.

Quick Facts

• The size of each island changes with the tide.

• Six islands are accessible by seasonal ferry services: Georges Island, Spectacle Island, Bumpkin Island, Grape Island, Lovells Island and Peddocks Island.

• Four islands may be visited year round by car: Deer Island, Nut Island, Webb Memorial State Park and Worlds End Island.

• Many islands are accessible by private boat, both seasonally and year round.