Boston is certainly considered one of the most popular cities in the United States. However, rarely do you hear of the beautiful beaches found just outside of the city or the Boston Harbor islands that are waiting to be explored.
Today’s guest contributor, Cheryl Maguire, shows us how to visit Hull, Massachusetts, a charming, off-the-beaten-path coastal area that’s definitely worth the drive from Boston. Let’s go exploring!
How to visit Hull, Massachusett
Are you interested in trying a new beach destination along the East Coast? If so, you can avoid the Cape Cod bridge traffic and experience a new place by traveling to Hull, Massachusetts.
Located thirty miles from Boston by car, or only fifteen miles by public ferry, Hull is easily accessible. Situated on the southern point of Boston Harbor, Hull is actually a series of islands connected by sandbars, which forms Nantasket Peninsula.
Besides beaches, Hull, MA, is filled with American history. The first lighthouse and the first U.S. electric railroad were both built in Hull.
Lifesaving is an important aspect of Hull’s history. Joshua James is a famous lifesaver from Hull who is credited for savings over 1,000 lives from shipwrecks in the Boston Harbor and is considered the “father” of the US Coastguard.
We love the scenic beaches and views of around the coast of Hull. There are views of the Boston skyline and incredible sunsets.
Many people who visit the public beaches never venture beyond this point. What a mistake! They end up missing gorgeous views plus historical experiences such as the Hull Life Saving Museum or Fort Revere Park.
Nantasket Beach: a Massachusetts state park with a great beach
Nantasket Beach Reservation is a Massachusetts State Park that’s open year round. It’s rated one of the top ten beaches in New England. During the summer months lifeguards are on duty and there is a public rest room available. It is situated a mile along the Massachusetts Bay.
There is a boardwalk which runs the length of Nantasket Beach for biking or walking. During low tide you’ll often find tidal pools for small children to play in or to beachcomb for sea life such as hermit crabs, starfish or sea glass/sea shells.
Ride the Paragon Carousel
Paragon Carousel is a historical carousel and one of only 100 Grand carousels in the United States. It was built in 1928 and has been in operation for over 80 years.
The Carousel was originally an attraction in the Paragon Park amusement park which closed in 1984. It contains hand carved horses and is decorated with 35 original paintings.
Explore colonial history at Fort Revere Park
Fort Revere Park is an 8 acre historic state park, sixty feet above sea level. There are two seacoast fortifications; one used in the American Revolution and the other from 1898-1947.
The fort was named in honor of Paul Revere. Picnic tables are available for you to use while enjoying amazing views of Boston Harbor.
Visit the Hull Lifesaving Museum
Hull Lifesaving Museum is located at the former Point Allerton US Lifesaving Station which opened in 1889 under the leadership of Joshua James. The museum contains information about schooners, nor’easters, shipwrecks, rescues and maritime history of Boston Harbor. There are views of Boston Light from an observation point.
The museum has rotating exhibits, events and programs such as the art exhibits, rowing programs, a summer program for children and an annual Harbor Illumination festival. If you are visiting, check the museum website for current information.
If you’re planning a trip to this area, make sure to check out a list of hotels in Hull, Massachusetts.
Board the ferry in Hull for an island tour
Ride the Ferry to Boston or the Boston Harbor Islands by boarding the ferry at the stop in Hull. You can spend the day touring the Boston Harbor Islands or a 15 minute ferry ride will bring you to downtown Boston.
Sit Back and Enjoy the view from Hull, MA
Watching the sunset with the backdrop of the Boston skyline and Boston Harbor is a must when visiting. If you go to the bay side of A Street there is a pier and marina where you can walk out and see spectacular sunsets every night. Next to the pier is a restaurant, if you would like to dine while enjoying the views.
Tips for visiting Hull:
- If you are a Massachusetts resident or know one, you can reserve a free parking pass for the Nantasket beach parking lot. The lot for the pass is small and fills up quickly, get there early to ensure a spot.
- There is a hotel on the ocean called the Nantasket Beach Resort or there are bed and breakfast places available to stay overnight. If you are planning to stay for a week or longer, there are many houses available for rent.
- Before going to the beach, check the tide chart since sometimes there is little beach available during high tide.
- Here is a map of Hull to use when you visit containing fun facts: map.
- Consider visiting in the early fall for fall color or an uncrowded walk on the beach
