- This page, Boston Harbor Islands, is offered by
- Department of Conservation & Recreation
- Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs
- Universal Access Program
Boston Harbor Islands
Details
Overview
Explore 13 islands of Boston Harbor, 4 of which are publicly accessible by ferry in 2023 and offer lots of activities. You'll find swimming, boating, hiking and camping among the most popular.
Hours
Welcome Center
Sunday - Saturday:
9:00 am-5:00 pm
Parking
No parking is available on the islands.
Private parking is available at ferry locations.
Activities
-
Hiking & walking
Most islands offer trails fit for all levels of experience. Head to Spectacle Islands for 5 miles of trails and perfect views of the harbor. -
Camping
Tent campsites and yurts are available on Peddocks Island. -
Scenic views
You'll find amazing views from all islands. Be sure to check out Boston Harbor, the city skyline, and historic sites.
All Activities
- Hiking
- Boating (non-motorized)
- Canoeing and kayaking
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Educational programs
Facilities
- Grills
- Group/private event use
- Pavilion
- Picnic area
- Playground
- Restrooms - on Georges, Peddocks and Spectacle Islands ONLY
- Visitors center
Accessibility
- Accessible trail on Spectacle Island
- Beach wheelchair available on Spectacle Island
Restrictions
- No alcohol
- No dogs or pets on islands (service dogs permitted)
- No littering - No trash disposal, carry on - Carry off
- No fireworks
- No amplified sound
- No feeding or following animals
- No bikes on islands
More info
Ferry information
See our partner’s website, Boston Harbor Now, for more information about visiting the Boston Harbor Islands.
The following islands are only accessible by ferry:
- Spectacle
- Georges
- Peddocks
- Thompson
The following islands are accessible by private boat:
- Georges
- Spectacle
- Grape
- Bumpkin
- Lovells
- Peddocks
- Thompson
Passenger ferries for Spectacle, Georges, and Peddocks are located at:
- Long Wharf
- Boston, MA You can find ferry schedules and tickets online or call (617) 223-8666 for more information.
Passenger ferries for Thompson are located at:
- The EDIC Pier in South Boston
This service is offered directly by the private owner, Thompson Island Outward Bound Education Center, as required by a Conservation Restriction held by DCR and the National Parks Service. You can find ferry schedules and other information online.
Camping information
Camping at Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park will be offered on Peddocks Island only in 2023.
Camping on the Boston Harbor Islands is $8/night for Massachusetts residents and $20/night for non-residents. Group camping is $35/night for Massachusetts residents and $100/night for non-residents. Large yurts are $55/night for Massachusetts residents and $140/night for non-residents.
Resident and non resident status is determined by the vehicle license plate.