When you're visiting Boston, island-hopping may be the last thing on your mind. The Boston Harbor Islands, a national park area, consists of 30 islands, six of which are accessible by scheduled ferry and water shuttle. The islands offer a chance to picnic, explore long-abandoned buildings, fish, take a hike, learn about the islands' history, watch herons, and take a brisk dip at one of the beaches. In addition to their own charms, the islands also provide great views of the tankers, tugs, container vessels, and sailing and cruising ships moving in and out of the Port of Boston.
Kids delight in clambering around the ramparts and roaming through the fort's dank corridors.
Gallops Island provides spectacular views of the Boston skyline and the Atlantic Ocean from the top of its glacial drumlin. Legend has it that pirate treasure is buried here, but, alas, not a single doubloon has ever been found. Peddock's Island , with its five glacial drumlins and the remains of Ft. Andrews, is one of the largest islands in the chain and is a favorite for hikers, bird watchers, and campers. Bumpkin Island is in Hingham harbor and its trails lead to the ruins of a stone farmhouse and a children's hospital.