Access and hours vary from one island to the next. Please read the information provided below to plan your next visit.
Most park islands are open to visitation from dawn until dusk, year-round. The best way to visit the park is by public ferry from Boston or Hingham. Ferries operate from mid-May through mid-October.
Visitors may also access the islands by private vessel. Park moorings are open by reservation. Boaters are advised that there are no services such as visitor centers, restrooms, or drinking water outside of ferry operating hours.
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).
Private boater access to Thompson Island is limited to the beach area.
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. Always yield to park ferries. Note that not all islands have floats or safe places to anchor. 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, 2023:
Spring Shoulder Season: May 20 – June 11
Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 9:30am – 4:00pm
Mon, Tues, Wed: Closed
Exceptions
Saturday, May 20 (Free Ferry Day): 8:30am – 4:30pm
Monday, May 23 (Memorial Day): 9:30am – 4:30pm
Summer Season: June 15 – September 4
Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 9:30am – 5:00pm
Mon, Tues: closed
Exceptions:
Tuesday, July 4: 9:30am – 5:00pm
Monday, September 4: 9:30am – 5:00pm
Fall Shoulder Season: September 7 – October 9
Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 9:30am – 4:00pm
Mon, Tues, Wed: Closed
Exceptions:
Monday, October 9: 9:30am – 4:00pm