Access and hours vary from one island to the next. Please read the information provided below to plan your next visit.
From mid-May through Columbus day, Spectacle and Georges Islands are accessible by public ferry. Peddocks, Lovells, Grape, and Bumpkin Islands are accessible by ferry from late June through Labor Day.
Thompson Island is accessible by public ferry only during weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
The mainland parks, Deer, Nut, Webb Memorial, and World’s End, are open year-round and accessible by car and public transportation.
During the off-season, access to DCR islands requires a DCR Special Use Permit. Please contact the ranger line at 617-223-8666 for more information.
Limited Access Islands
The Boston Harbor Islands are home to various wildlife. Many islands have limited access during bird breeding season from April through August, including Rainsford and Snake Islands, islands in Hingham Harbor (Sarah, Langlee, Ragged, and Button Island) and the outer islands (the Brewsters, Calf, Little Calf, and Green Island).
Prohibited Access Islands
Long, Gallops, Moon, Little Brewster, and The Graves are closed to public access.
Access By Private Boat
Visitors may travel to the park via private watercraft. Passenger drop-off at island floats is allowed with anchorage nearby. Dinghies may be available during the summer season. Always yield to park ferries. Visit the boating page for more information.
Welcome Center
Visit the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park Welcome Center on the Rose Kennedy Greenway at:
191W Atlantic Ave
Boston, MA 02110
Welcome Center Hours:
- 9am-4:30pm daily from mid-May through late June
- 9am-6pm late June through Labor Day
- 9am-4:30pm daily from September 3rd through Columbus Day