Shore of Grape Island, Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
Grape Island is no longer serviced by ferry, so visitation is by private boat only. Many people travel to the island in canoes and kayaks because it is so close to the mainland. Private motorboaters are welcome as well. However, the dock can only be used for dropping off passengers and equipment. Boats must either anchor offshore or land on the gravel beach.
Private boat anchors off the shore of Grape Island, Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
Activities on Grape Island include hiking swimming, and fishing (camping on the island has been suspended as of 2020). If your plan is to simply explore the island and see what it has to offer, you’ll spend about two hours before running out of things to do.
See the following web pages for more information about visitor activities at Grape Island:
During my daytime visit in early August, I did not run into any mosquitoes, gnats, or flies, but I was told that bugs do come out in the evening and early morning before it gets hot. Furthermore, the Ranger at the island advised me to stay on the trails due to ticks (deer and turkey live on the island). I took his advice and did not have any problems.
Grape Island map (click to enlarge)
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Last updated on January 13, 2024
