Boston Harbor Islands

Getty Images/Photolibrary RM

Boston Lighthouse, Boston Harbor, Massachusetts.

Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.

Designated a National Recreation Area, the Boston Harbor Islands consist of 34 islands with sandy beaches and hiking trails. Since the massive cleanup of Boston Harbor in the 1990s, these once-polluted islands – just a 45-minute boat ride from downtown Boston – have been transformed into sparkling natural assets.

Must-see attractions

Explore all