Boston Harbor Islands

Transit friendly
Historic site

Details of Boston Harbor Islands

Overview of Boston Harbor Islands

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 for Boston Harbor Islands

Welcome Center

Sunday - Saturday:
9:00 am-5:00 pm

Parking at Boston Harbor Islands

No parking is available on the islands.

Private parking is available at ferry locations.

Activities at Boston Harbor Islands

  • 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 at Boston Harbor Islands

  • Hiking
  • Boating (non-motorized)
  • Canoeing and kayaking
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Educational programs

Facilities at Boston Harbor Islands

Accessibility at Boston Harbor Islands

Restrictions at Boston Harbor Islands

  • 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 for Boston Harbor Islands

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.

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