- by Zaylie Matesowicz
Things to do in Plum Island, Massachusetts
Welcome to Plum Island, Massachusetts!
This 11 mile barrier island, spanning 4 towns, has a rich history – in both maritime and aviation, offers incredible local foods and flavors, a national wildlife refuge and so much more, let’s head to the beach!
Beaches
Plum Island Center (Newbury, MA)
This is the perfect spot if you want to be next to restaurants, public bathrooms and convenience stores. Paid parking is available.
North Point (Newburyport, MA)
The North Point Beach is located at the very end of the island, offering views of both the mouth of the Merrimack River and the Atlantic Ocean. You will also find a family friendly playground, the historic Plum Island Lighthouse and Captain’s Fishing Parties and Cruises. Paid public parking is available as well as a floating beach wheelchair provided by smilemass.org (Note: swimming is not allowed in the river and there are no life guards)
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
This incredible stretch of beach spans, Newbury, Rowley and Ipswich, Massachusetts. There are miles of beach access available from parking lots 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7. You will find restrooms at lots 1 & 4 and portable options at other lots. At the most southern tip of the island you will find Sandy Point State Reservation – there is very limited parking in this area and it fills up quickly.
Beyond the Beach
The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge offers an incredible nature experience with trails through out the refuge. Bring your binoculars and wear your favorite hiking shoes – there is so much to see! Enjoy the bird blinds, look out points, marshes and dunes. Hellcat Interpretive Trail offers a 1.4 mile fully wheel chair accessible path, located off of parking lot 4.
Beach Time + Playtime
For over 50 years, Surfland Bait and Tackle has been a Plum Island institution. The perfect place to get your fishing gear, bait, advice and even a wide range of hats, T’s and sweatshirts you can only find there.
Go Fishing
For over 50 years, Surfland Bait and Tackle has been a Plum Island institution. The perfect place to get your fishing gear, bait, advice and even a wide range of hats, T’s and sweatshirts you can only find there.
The Cottage Marketplace
Home to The Cottage Creamery, surf and beach gear, snacks, groceries and wine & spirits. The Cottage is locally owned and open year round. The Cottage Creamery is the perfect stop after a day at the beach – enjoy a scoop, a sundae or one of their famous ice cream sandwiches or shakes.
Getting There
By Car: as you leave the scenic coastal town of Newburyport, take the Plum Island Turnpike for about 7 miles along the coast.
By Bus: The Merrimack Valley Transit (MeVa) offers the Route 19 bus that runs from High Street and Oakland Street in Newburyport to Elm and Ring Streets on Plum Island (approximate cost $2)