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Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
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The Boston Harbor Islands National Park Area includes 34 islands within Boston Harbor. Imagine a place where you can walk through a Civil War era fort, explore tide pools, climb the nation's most historic lighthouse, hike lush trails and salt marshes, camp under the stars, or relax while fishing, picnicking or swimming all within reach of downtown Boston.
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Climate |
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Temperatures vary from the 50s in spring and fall to the 80s in mid-summer. Please remember that Boston weather can change quickly, especially in the Harbor. Water breezes make for cooler ferry rides, sometimes requiring jackets or windbreakers. Walking shoes, hats, and sunscreen are essential.
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Link to our Boston / Cambridge Weather coverage for more information.
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Fees |
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Ferry rates: $12 for adults, $10 for seniors,$7 for kids from 3 to 11
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Reservations |
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Ferry reservations only need to be made for groups of 25 or more
Camping reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance.
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Things To Do |
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There are plenty of things to do at the Boston Harbor islands, such as.... Nature Walks
Island Rangers will happily give tours and highlight the biodiversity of the Islands, or feel free to explore a real wilderness only a few miles from Boston. Camping
Where else can you camp in a primitive campsite, take a stroll and take a morning dip in the ocean, and view the skyline of one of our nation's greatest cities? History Tours
Rangers have regularly scheduled historic island tours. Cultural history of the Boston Harbor Islands starts with native Americans and continues with lighthouses, forts, shipwrecks, pirates, and much more. Kayaking
Kayaking to the Islands is always welcomed. Rent from any of several local companies and enjoy easier sea kayaking in Hingham Bay. Experienced kayakers may adventure to the outer Islands as well. Picnicking
Picnickers are always welcome. There are several picnic area on all islands. Those electing not to carry a lunch may buy a delicious lunch at cafes on Georges and Spectacle Island. Swimming
There are two beautiful beaches with lifeguards at Lovells and Spectacle Island. Private Boaters
Boaters may dock for free at Georges Island on a first come, first serve basis all day. There is a beautiful marina on Spectacle Island as well, and 25 moorings are scattered throughout the Islands as well. To reserve moorings or space at the Spectacle Island Marina, please cal 617-241-9640 For detailed information on all these activities and more, go to Boston Harbor Islands Partnership Visitor Guide at BostonIslands.com or call a ranger at 617-223-8666.
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Guided Tours |
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Ranger-led tours are offered on a regular basis on Georges, Spectacle, Grape, and other islands. In addition, the park and our cooperators conduct in-depth tours listed above. Don't forget to check our schedule of events at BostonIslands.com. Tour Boston Light on Little Brewster Island Join us for a three and one-half-hour ranger-guided tour of Little Brewster Island and Boston Light, the oldest light station in the country. This program includes a 45 minute narrated harbor tour highlighting the maritime traditions in Boston Harbor and its islands. We will view three other lighthouses during the trip as well. You will have two hours to explore the Island and learn about the light station's history. During the American Revolution the light tower was demolished by the British. Today's tower was built in 1783. Meet the US Coast Guard light keeper and discover island life, past and present. This "soft adventure" offers the unique opportunity to climb 76 spiraling steps and two ladders to the top of the light tower. Once at the top you will experience an up-close view of the second-order Fresnel lens that lights the way for ships (seen up to 27 miles away on a clear night), as well as enjoy a spectacular view of the harbor and Boston's skyline. Boston Harbor Islands Discovery Cruise The boat leaves Central Wharf in Boston on weekdays at 10:00, 12:00, and 2:00. A ranger will give a wonderful narrative of all the Islands as you pass them. The Ranger will focus on their fascinating histories, as well as touch upon the biodiversity and geology of the islands. After 90 minutes, visitors have the option of disembarking onto Georges Island to explore Fort Warren, a national Historic Landmark. Ticket prices are $19 for adults, $17 for seniors (65+) and active military personnel, $15 for kids 3 to 11, and free for kids under -3. Visitors may purchase tickets at the Aquarium Whale Watch box office nearby or call 617-973-5281. Sunset Cruise to Georges Island The boat leaves Central Wharf in Boston every evening at 7:00 and returns at 9:00. A ranger will give a pleasant narrative on the 45 minute cruise to the island. Visitors will then enjoy a short tour of Fort Warren, and watch the sunset over the city of Boston from the shore of the Island while ships quietly pass by. Ticket prices are $19 for adults, $17 for seniors (65+) and active military personnel, $15 for kids 3 to 11, and free for kids under -3. Visitors may purchase tickets at the Aquarium Whale Watch box office nearby or call 617-973-5281.
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