Gretchen Stuppy Carlson
Tucked away on the Northern coast of Massachessettes the beautiful Plum Island is worth exploring. With sand dunes and beaches similar to Cape Cod this sandy spit is perfect for a walk, bike ride or a day at the beach. We recently visited Plum Island on a warm September day and did several walks in the area and spent some time at the beach.
Below you can see an overview of our visit to the island. (if you are looking for a fun time to visit, you might want to check out the PlumFest)
You might also like some of our other guides to Massachusettes or join our New England Newsletter for weekly travel guides and ideas.
Quick Overview of Plum Island, MA
The only way to Plum Island is a short bridge. Once you’re on the island, there is a populated part of the island with beaches, houses, and some shops and restaurants. Most of the Southern part of the island is part of the  Parker River Natural Wildlife Refuge. At the very far point of Plum Island you will find Sandy Point State Reservation. There is a fee to enter both the refuge and the state reservation.
What to do on Plum Island, MA
1. Miles of Sandy Beaches
Plum Island is best known for its long stretches of sand along the Atlantic. The main beach areas are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply taking a walk while enjoying the sea breeze. You can access the beach in many locations.
2. Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
This 4,700-acre refuge protects critical coastal habitat and offers incredible opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and quiet exploration. In spring and fall, it’s a hotspot for migratory birds. The boardwalks and overlooks give easy access to marshes, dunes, and tidal creeks.
3. Birdwatching Paradise
With over 300 bird species recorded, Plum Island is one of New England’s premier birding destinations. You can spot everything from snowy owls in winter to piping plovers in summer. This is on a migratory route for birds so you can often see many.
4. Scenic Trails and Boardwalks
Beyond the beach, visitors can explore short trails and boardwalks that wind through salt marshes, maritime forests, and dunes. These walks are peaceful and offer unique views of the island’s diverse landscapes. We hiked the Pine’s Trail loop and then walked the boardwalk to the overlook at the beach.
5. Kayaking and Paddleboarding
On the calmer side of the island, the Great Marsh estuary provides sheltered waters perfect for paddling. Kayaking here offers a chance to see herons, egrets, and even seals. Check out Plum Island Kayaking for rentals.
6. Newburyport Connection
Just minutes away, the historic seaport town of Newburyport is filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it easy to combine nature with a bit of town charm. This is one of our favorite coastal towns in this part of New England.
7. Peaceful Atmosphere
Unlike more crowded New England beaches, Plum Island has a quieter, laid-back vibe. It’s a spot to slow down, watch the waves, and enjoy coastal beauty without the bustle. If you are going in the summer you could easily spend a full day on the island.
If you have a full day, you might also want to spend some time at Sandy Point State reservation – there are some additional fantastic hiking trails and a beach – note that you will need to pay an additional fee to visit this part of the island.
