user
Boston Harbor Islands State Park
191w Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02109, United States
Appearance

Comments
Ay
Review №1

Amazing place, I really enjoyed, there is a possibility for a bike path.

pa
Review №2

Its a nice walk or bike ride, you can run it if you like. Beautiful view a nice breeze. If you like looking at the ocean the harbor and some of its islands its something to appreciate.

Ve
Review №3

What a fantastic view of the islands. An awesome place for a sunday stroll.

Ro
Review №4

Not bad but did not know that the bay was so polluted. But the people in this town are very nice and accommodating. You can fish hear but you cant get shellfish at all because of all the pollution the bay that is closest to Shelby Street or Shelby Road outside of Boston

Bo
Review №5

Hiding in plain site. Take the ferry out to one of the island or just drive out to deer island and go for a 3+ mile walk. There are lots of great views and people watching

Gr
Review №6

It is a beautiful place to enjoy one day trip. 45min boating time, fort,wide lawn, it is good for kids to run and play. Its good for picnic for a family.

An
Review №7

Good place to walk and enjoy the New England coastline. If its cloudy be prepared for cool wind. May want a windbreaker. Also on the coast side you may get wet from the crashing waves. Enjoy

No
Review №8

Very nice place to camp. A real cast away experience. Its a great place to explore. Walk round the beach and see whats washed up or head in land and through the trails or a thick Forest. Explore the old fort (no guilded tours) that is slowly being reclaimed by the forest. The campsites while are close together there is thick brush between giving very good privacy. You will forget they are there. On the down side. It is under the flight path for Logan. So that can get a little loud sometimes. Also the party boat sails close to the island and it is loud. Otherwise. A beautiful island and a wonderful experience.

Br
Review №9

One ticket on the ferry will allow you to go from island to island for a day. We chose to visit Georges Island (home to a civil war-era fort with lots of passage to explore, ample picnic tables) and Spectacle Island (small beach, gorgeous overlooks of the city). There happened to be live jazz playing at Spectacle Island’s Visitor Center when I was there so check to the schedule to see if any events are planned beforehand. Both islands had snack bars but I’d recommend packing a picnic!

Ph
Review №10

We visited Georges Island. They have Fort Warren there. It was very interesting. They have a few runs during the day, as well as guided tours. You can also amble around on your own if you want. There is a visitors center where you can see information on the history of the fort, and a brief video. There are restrooms there as well. There is a rule that whatever you bring to the island, you take when you leave. There are no garbage barrels there. You also should bring food and beverages, as there are none on the island. You may purchase beverages and snacks on the boat going there. Definitely worth going. There are a bunch of islands but you would have to start early to see more than one. Check them out!

An
Review №11

Went to spectacle Island and wasnt really worth it to me mostly not for almost $30 for the ferry. I mean its good to get away at first but gets very boring fast. You have to stay on the paths so not much to do.

Be
Review №12

Spectacle was a good day trip for picnicking, going for a light hike and dip in the harbor. Be careful with how much you bring, as the park is carry on, carry off. And do not swim on the boat side of the dock. Otherwise it’s a nice escape from the city. Hard to believe that people lived here year round!

Ja
Review №13

The best view of the airport without being at the airport. Always in view of people and this place probably would be crowded if it were not so cloudy. and there is a memorial on the top of the hill. Either hold it or Byob bring your own bathroom

Ma
Review №14

Absolutely beautiful trails. We walked through tree lined fields and woods. We enjoyed views of the bay and observed the Boston skyline in the distance. There are benches dotted throughout. The paths are wide and well maintained. We past families with small children, families with baby strollers, joggers, people with dogs, and groups of young people. We are members of the Trustees Organization so parking was free for us.

Ma
Review №15

Peaceful and beautiful view.. it’s amazing place to get relaxed!!

Mi
Review №16

A bunch of rare gems that few venture out to see. Well worth taking a day to explore an island or two. (Or even go camping!) Shuttles are inexpensive but keep an eye on times so youre not stranded and make sure the shuttle goes back to your original starting point. Seals can be spotted in the summer lounging on the rocks on some of the islands! Its a Beachcombers paradise since very few people go to some of the islands that do not have public shuttles. Take a kayak or small boat to explore!

op
Review №17

Clean fresh air, a private gem tucked away

Je
Review №18

We visited Spectacle Island. I was a little disappointed, was expecting more based on the reviews. Read that this is one of the cleanest beaches in the area but I was not impressed. There is a trail around the island which is a nice walk, but there was not much that is varied in the nature there. Mostly grass and we didnt see any wildlife, not even birds. It was tempting to take some sea glass as a souvenir but we did not per park rules. Lunch offerings were great. Good hot dogs!

er
Review №19

I could not love these islands more! Georges Island has Fort Warren. Amazing! Peddocks has tons of original buildings and the remains of mortars. Fabulous! Spectacle has incredible views and a beach full of pottery and beach glass fragments. Wonderful! Love, love, love. $17 gets you an all day pass to take shuttles between the islands. Please go explore!

He
Review №20

Ive lived here for 50+ years and never visited these wonderful islands. The ferry was convenient and comfortable, the islands were beautiful, and the views were spectacular!

Pr
Review №21

This tour includes George islands, spectacle islands and peddock island, only in 17 bucks. Need 6-7 hours for complete tour of all 3. You can go to either of them also. There was numbers of ships to hop on hop off. Only you have to mind the timings if go to all 3. You can have self guided tours in each islands.

Ja
Review №22

Very scenic and a nice breeze today, awesome place to see Bostons new skyline.

Yo
Review №23

Fort-showcasing island that will captivate your attention for a while. It doesnt get too busy so youll have a nice view for awesome pictures of the harbor and historical buildings. This has to be one of the most clean touristy island Ive been to.

Wh
Review №24

Breath taking. Amazing idea to turn the waste water treatment plant for the area into a park. Even with the faint smell the views of the harbor and of Boston were amazing!! Would definitely visit again if in the area!!

We
Review №25

Only one suggestion for summer visitors... bug spray! Mosquito repellent is a MUST on islands other than Georges.

Ka
Review №26

Great for walking, running or biking!

Mi
Review №27

Wonderful views of Boston!! Nice walk also

Gr
Review №28

Great place to visit and take pictures

Ia
Review №29

What a fantastic place to relax, walk around, heck... Even grab a quick lunch, sit in the car and look out at the Majesty...

Ja
Review №30

Great event with LLBean and Night Shift brewing

Sa
Review №31

Great place to walk whit fresh air and a good milles

GI
Review №32

Always beautiful

St
Review №33

Beautiful and informative. Perfect day in the harbor with great views of the city from the sea. The connections between the islands are very convenient and easy to use if you want to do island hopping.

Ca
Review №34

Its so gorgeous, and clean here. We come early in the morning with the dog. Just beautiful.

C.
Review №35

Atmosphere: a getaway from the hustle and bustle of downtown Boston. George’s island is a clean and inviting place for all ages!Service: Never met a bad park ranger and this island is no exception, they truly love what they do and it shows through their passion & kindness.The trip over to the island is a bit slow, however BHC offers a range of affordable snacks, meals and alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages to keep you busy while on the journey.The island itself has a small cafe with plenty of meals (starting at $4.) I opted for the ‘peanut butter & jelly’ which came with chips and a pickle all for only $4.. what a deal!

Po
Review №36

Love it!!! One of the absolute best things about Boston!

Ky
Review №37

Good place. Close to Boston and easy access

Ta
Review №38

Amazing Georges Island experience on our mommy daughter date

Ni
Review №39

Always beautiful no matter the weather and steeped in history.

An
Review №40

It was beautiful here. Great place to wall and great views.

re
Review №41

Enjoy your summer evenings by spending time over there

El
Review №42

Great place for celebrations, walk, or just a escape from the city...

Am
Review №43

Wonderful trip with the kids! Great history!

Da
Review №44

I went to Spectacle and Georges during this visit on a hot July Saturday. The ferry from Long Wharf to Spectacle took about 15 minutes. Spectacle has great walking trails and a guarded beach along with changing rooms. The visitor center houses some information on the island’s varied history along with a sea glass mural, made with items found on the beach. Photos can be taken of the sea glass and pottery but must not be removed from island. The vistas of the Boston Harbor waterfront area are great from the hiking trails as well as the beach and dock.

Ke
Review №45

Great island close to Boston beautiful views of the city and excellent get away.

Iv
Review №46

Great Scenery! Lots of boats and great for pictures

Ji
Review №47

They got my order wrong. I wont stop here again.

Ce
Review №48

I recomended Spectacle Island for familiar camping, walk around the Island, to see the start, to eat mashmallow in front the beach..Etc.

Na
Review №49

Great place to the beautiful Boston city from it. In this picture it was raining and the city was cover in clouds and just the quietness made it more beautiful

Al
Review №50

Everyone is so nice. Almost like on vacation mode and beautiful day to be on a boat. They have a bar w food and drinks where u dock and great service

Ch
Review №51

My pictures says all

Bo
Review №52

An easy escape from the city to enjoy the sun, the sea and time with friends.

Ma
Review №53

A wonderful day for some jazz!

Mi
Review №54

Free harbor cruise Friday was a great way to take the kids to Georges island to explore the fort for an afternoon. Real pleasant staff at the ticket booth, on the boat and staffing the island to answer questions and explain to the kids more about life at fort Warren.

As
Review №55

Best place in Boston. the solace and the beautiful views are ideal for a picnic, relaxation or a walk.

Mo
Review №56

Great for a one day outing. Good quality time with a slice of history. St Georges fort is great. Amazing views of Boston from spectacle island.

Ja
Review №57

We visited Georges Island we beautiful during the summer, great to spend time with the family.

fr
Review №58

Beauty and historic blend into one helluva experience!!!

Pl
Review №59

Wonderful place to walk and have fun Nice for camping

Ra
Review №60

This is one of Bostons little known gems. Its possible, even easy, to take a short boat trip from Boston to the harbor islands and enjoy a scenic ride, spectacular views, and a quick island visit. Its a great family trip on a nice day and something totally different. Pack a lunch and go explore!

Fr
Review №61

Breathtaking. Mother Nature showing off her very best outfit with all her jewels. Sparkling ocean, salt air, singing seagulls. A silver symphony for ear and heart

Ma
Review №62

Nice enjoyable day!

Mi
Review №63

Deer Island is a hidden gem

mi
Review №64

Who would have thought a walk around the sewage treatment plant would be so enjoyable? It was Beautiful, they have lots of informational plaques. Dont miss the view of Boston and the harbor islands from the peak of the island

Pa
Review №65

Beautiful Park for a walk and Watching the plane

Ri
Review №66

The grounds and artifacts tell a marvelous story. There are folks around to tell stories of hospitals, prisoners and graves.If looking to connect with the harbor, this is a good first stop. The island ferries can make for a wonderful field trip.

al
Review №67

Beautiful, clean and peaceful. A nice walk with the option of some hills if wanted

Bo
Review №68

If you have a boat its worth the ride

Ro
Review №69

Excellent place, very vibrant, and lively. Cool place to reflect and see the city in Its glory at night. Great walking spot.

wa
Review №70

Great place. Need more time to see

Mi
Review №71

Very beautiful scenery

La
Review №72

This is a nice afternoon getaway. The NPS does a great job with tours. It is a short ferry ride through the harbor. You can buy snacks and drinks on board.

Ro
Review №73

This is a beautiful walk around Deer Island. The views are very picturesque, and there are plenty of bathrooms along the way. Definitely bring a water bottle and a few snacks, as the time it takes to walk around and taking the sites is long. Great for personal exercise, or leisurely strolling, or a group sightseeing. Bring sunglasses on a bright day.

Ma
Review №74

The Boston Harbor Island National Recreation Area consists of 34 islands and peninsulas. This original area of approximately 1,600 acres (647 hectares) provides visitors with a unique Boston experience. From beach camping, kayaking, swimming, hiking and fishing to exploring the old lighthouse, exploring Fort Warren or enjoying a cup of coffee, you can enjoy a variety of entertainment. Visit these islands and visit the port ferries from Quincy, Singh, downtown Boston and Hull. Park rangers usually call on the boat to tell you which are the best islands to visit.

Ti
Review №75

Some nice places to anchor your boat, enjoy the day. Many places to explore.

Pa
Review №76

Boat rides between islands all day. Easy walking trails. Beaches, birds, not crowded on a beautiful Saturday in August.

Ay
Review №77

Glorious place to spend a day!

Co
Review №78

Love the islands. A real haven in the bustle that is Boston. Spectacular views too, different at each island.

Ka
Review №79

Great service by the boston harbor island cruises, beautiful sites within the islands

De
Review №80

Great place. Reminds me Norfolk Island.

Da
Review №81

Georges island is fascinating and peaceful. The historic fort is fun to visit and well maintained.

Re
Review №82

This is a great place to take a nice long 3 Mile Walk and get the best view of Boston ever

ja
Review №83

Great for a hike that is steep at times or completely flat. Fun for the whole family. Bring water shoes if you plan to hit the beach.

Ch
Review №84

Beautiful scenery, well maintained!!

Sh
Review №85

Beautiful area

Lo
Review №86

Cool on a hot day.

Pe
Review №87

Great place to explore. Lots of History and a lot of nature.

As
Review №88

Great place to walk, run

St
Review №89

First lighthouse in US and still working

Br
Review №90

Interesting history combined with picturesque views of Boston and Graves Lighthouses. The city skyline can be blocked depending which island youre on, but overall very nice.

Bo
Review №91

Loved it, visited from Indiana, plenty of walking and biking trails, plenty of peace and quiet listening to the ocean splash against The Rocks

Se
Review №92

Deer Island. Lovely spot. Check out Celtic Cross in memory of Irish Imigrants

an
Review №93

Love this place. So windy and see the ocean view really clear. Lots of people do squidding from day to night.

Ma
Review №94

I went here just to walk around and clear my head. The views are great, the flowers and plants all give you a wonderful fresh air smell, and its very peaceful. I could see how parking could be a bit of an issue, but it wasnt a problem while I was there. Really a pretty place to go for a walk

Ca
Review №95

Beautiful, easy trip out of the city

Ma
Review №96

Always fun to take a boat out onto the islands. Recommended to anyone.

Ma
Review №97

Very cool. Great way to kill the day with the kids. Boat ride and then a huge island with a huge fort to explore. My four year old and my nine-year-old so its enjoyed it dot-dot-dot which is rare.

Va
Review №98

Nice place

Ra
Review №99

The Boston Harbor Islands National Park is beautiful and you can tell that all the parks staff work hard to preserve its nature.

Ro
Review №100

Plenty of things to do and explore on the islands. Some islands have camping and even just a day visit is fun. Lots of historic ruins, some islands have guided tours. Ferry available so you can visit more than one island if you wish. Great seasonal hidden gems

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:191w Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02109, United States
  • Site:http://bostonharborislands.org/
  • Phone:+1 617-223-8666
Categories
  • National park
  • Park
  • Recreation center
  • State park
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday:Closed
  • Wednesday:Closed
  • Thursday:Open 24 hours
  • Friday:Open 24 hours
  • Saturday:Open 24 hours
  • Sunday:Open 24 hours
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
Similar organizations