Plum Island

Near Plum Island Beach, there are several excellent dining options. Sunset Club Plum Island is a trendy spot known for its LGBTQ+ ownership and offers a great selection of cocktails and live music. Another popular choice is Michael's Harborside Restaurant & Bar, which provides waterfront dining with a focus on surf 'n' turf and live music. For a more casual experience, Black Cow offers New American cuisine with a stylish atmosphere. Sea Level Oyster Bar NBPT is ideal for seafood lovers, offering river views and craft cocktails. Lastly, Loretta provides upscale American dining in a cozy setting.

For accommodations near Plum Island Beach, visitors have several options. Blue - Inn on the Beach is a chic beachfront hotel offering ocean views and a hot tub. The Essex Street Inn & Suites provides a more traditional Victorian B&B experience with continental breakfast. For those looking for a more standard hotel stay, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston North Shore and Hampton Inn Amesbury offer comfortable rooms and amenities like indoor pools.

Plum Island Beach offers basic amenities such as portable restrooms at the North Point parking lot, but there are no food stands or concessions directly on the beach. Visitors can find more comprehensive facilities, including restaurants and convenience stores, at the Plum Island Center. The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge provides wheelchair-accessible restrooms at certain parking lots. For those seeking more comfort, nearby hotels and inns offer a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi and breakfast.

Plum Island Beach is a hub for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, though caution is advised due to strong tides. Fishing and boating are popular, with opportunities for both public and private boat trips. The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit for bird watching, with over 300 species to observe. Kayaking and hiking are also available, allowing visitors to explore the island's natural beauty. Additionally, the beach offers a playground for children, making it a family-friendly destination.

Plum Island Beach offers some accessibility features, such as wheelchair-accessible restrooms at certain parking lots within the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. However, the beach itself does not have specific ramps or wheelchair rentals available. Nearby restaurants and hotels provide more comprehensive accessibility options, including wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating areas.

Parking at Plum Island Beach is limited. The North Point parking lot accommodates about 121 cars and charges $15 on weekdays and $20 on weekends for non-residents. Residents with a sticker pay less. Parking at the Plum Island Center is primarily in private lots, with prices varying depending on the day and time. Street parking is restricted for non-residents, so lot parking is recommended. Arriving early is advisable to secure a spot, especially during peak times.

Plum Island Beach is named after the beach plum shrubs that grow in its dunes. The island is famous for its purple sands, which appear at high tide due to tiny garnet crystals. Historically, the island was significant during the American Revolutionary War and the War of 1812, with Fort Philip built to defend the Merrimack River. Today, it remains a popular spot for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.

One of the main attractions on Plum Island is the historic Plum Island Lighthouse, located at the northern end of the island. The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is another major draw, offering extensive trails and bird watching opportunities. The Hellcat Interpretive Trail within the refuge provides insight into the island's natural and historical significance. Sandy Point State Reservation at the southern tip of the island offers picturesque views and is a great spot for relaxation.