One of seven main beaches in the coastal hub of Gloucester, Massachusetts, Good Harbor Beach is also among the loveliest. Known for its powdery white sand and crashing Atlantic waves, it’s a popular place for seaside visits all year round. The nearby Salt Island can be reached via a sand bridge during low tide.
Gloucester, Massachusetts’ maritime history stretches back 400 years and today its fishing port is one of the best known in the country. Few other landmarks more movingly commemorate this nautical heritage than Gloucester’s Fishermen’s Memorial. Erected a century ago, it depicts the captain of a vessel navigating stormy seas, and pays tribute to the many thousands of local fishermen who’ve lost their lives at sea.
The Atlantic Ocean has played a major role in Cape Cod’s history since 1639, and that history is on full display here at the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, which explores the peninsula’s unique maritime heritage. Rotating exhibits cover topics ranging from archival histories of Cape Cod’s whaling and fishing industries, lighthouse and boat design, nautical art, and even a scrimshaw collection.
Cisco Brewers is a Nantucket-born-and-bred brewery that’s produced artisan beers since 1995. In summer, the brewery offers a free shuttle service from Nantucket town and a lively outdoor tasting experience with beers, cocktails, food trucks from island restaurants, and music. You can also join a brewery tour to glimpse the brewery’s inner workings.
Stretched across the mouth of Massachusetts Bay east of Boston, the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is an Atlantic Ocean reserve designed to protect the area’s rich marine environment. Created in 1992, the sanctuary is visited by migrating wild whales and other sea life, and draws numerous whale-watching boat trips from Boston.
Travel between Boston’s Long Wharf and Salem in style on the Salem Ferry. This high-speed catamaran cruises at up to 33 knots and can complete the journey in less than an hour. The 92-foot (28-meter) long ship can comfortably fit 150 passengers. Feel the wind on your face and enjoy the passing scenery from the upper and lower decks, or enjoy the comforts of the climate-controlled indoor lounge.
Located in South Boston, Castle Island is one of the city’s most appealing waterfront parks. Spanning 22 acres (9 hectares), the park is home to Fort Independence, as well as green space, paths, playgrounds, and beaches, making it an ideal location for visitors looking for a day of history, leisure, or outdoor recreation.
Locals and visitors alike flock to the Waterfront, which stretches from one of the city’s best parks to the Boston Tea Party ships. In the vibrant neighborhood, you’ll find enough tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops to keep you busy for days. Or, just take in the view of Boston Harbor as you leisurely stroll the walkways.
Spread across the city’s harbor, Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park is just a quick trip by ferry from Downtown, offering a picturesque nature escape from the urban bustle. Featuring both natural and historic attractions, the park invites visitors to explore a Civil War–era fort, check out the oldest continually used lighthouse in the United States, head out for a hike, spend the night camping, and more.
There's perhaps no better symbol of Boston maritime history than the Boston Light, a quaint lighthouse set on Little Brewster Island. This Boston Harbor landmark was built in 1716, and holds the record for the country's oldest continuously operated lighthouse. Lucky visitors that book a tour can climb the tower for striking Boston views.
