Winter Island/Waikiki Beach

For dining near Winter Island, Salem offers a variety of restaurants. Finz Salem is a popular choice for upscale seafood dining with harbor views. Another favorite is Turner's Seafood at Lyceum Hall, known for its historic setting and New England-style seafood. Sea Level Oyster Bar provides a casual atmosphere with a focus on oysters and harbor views. Rockafellas Restaurant offers modern American cuisine in a historic building, while Village Tavern is famous for its pool tables and jazz brunch.

These restaurants cater to diverse tastes and preferences, from casual dining to upscale experiences.

Visitors to Winter Island can choose from several nearby hotels. The Hawthorne Hotel is a historic choice with elegant decor and fine dining options. The Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites offers traditional rooms and an indoor pool. For a boutique experience, The Merchant provides chic rooms and a trendy lounge. Another option is The Cove Hotel, which offers modern amenities and a convenient location.

These hotels range from historic charm to modern convenience, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Winter Island offers several amenities for visitors. The park includes restrooms and showers, which are particularly convenient for campers. Picnic areas are available for those who want to enjoy meals with scenic views. Additionally, there are facilities for boating and kayaking, including a public boat ramp. Rental equipment for kayaking and other activities can be found through local companies nearby.

The campground at Winter Island provides modern amenities such as fire pits, making it a comfortable spot for overnight stays. The proximity to downtown Salem also means that additional amenities like restaurants and shops are just a short drive away.

Winter Island offers a variety of activities for visitors. Swimming is a popular pastime at Waikiki Beach, especially during the summer months when lifeguards are on duty. Boating and kayaking are also favored activities, with access to Salem Sound and nearby harbors. Birdwatching is another attraction, as the area is home to native and migrating birds.

For those interested in history, exploring the remains of Fort Pickering and visiting the Fort Pickering Lighthouse are must-do activities. The park's scenic views also make it a great spot for photography and picnicking.

Winter Island offers some accessibility features, though they may be limited. The park's paths and facilities are generally accessible, but visitors should be cautious of rocky areas and uneven terrain. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available, but it is advisable to check ahead of time for specific accessibility needs.

Nearby restaurants and hotels in Salem also offer wheelchair-accessible facilities, making the area more inclusive for visitors with disabilities.

Parking at Winter Island is generally accessible, though it may fill up quickly during peak summer months. Visitors can park near the beach or campground, and there are also parking options available near the entrance to the park. Fees may apply depending on the season and availability. It is advisable to arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends or during holidays.

The proximity of Winter Island to downtown Salem means that additional parking options are available in the city if needed.

Winter Island has a rich history dating back to the early settlement of Salem in the 1620s. It was initially used for fish drying and shipbuilding and later became a strategic defensive point for Salem. The name 'Winter Island' comes from its use as a winter mooring site for the 17th-century fishing fleet.

The island was also home to a Coast Guard air station during World War II, which was later decommissioned and returned to the city. Today, Winter Island is part of the National Register of Historic Places, recognized for its historical significance.

One of the main attractions at Winter Island is the Fort Pickering Lighthouse, built in 1871. Visitors can walk along the rocky breakwater to get a close look at the lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of Salem Harbor. The remains of Fort Pickering are also a significant historical attraction, offering insights into Salem's military past.

The park's scenic views and access to Salem Harbor make it a great spot for boating and exploring the coastline. Additionally, the nearby city of Salem offers a wealth of historical sites and attractions, including those related to the Salem witch trials.