Castle Island is connected to the mainland by both a pedestrian and vehicular causeway, making it easily accessible. Walk, run, or bike along its many paths, take in the views from a scenic overlook, go for a swim at one of the beaches, or try fishing in the bay. You can also enjoy a nice picnic or grab some food at Sully’s, watch planes take off and land at Boston Logan airport, and in season, take a guided tour of Fort Independence. For a different perspective, pass by the island as you sail around Boston Harbor on a brunch or dinner cruise.
Amenities include restrooms, showers, lifeguards, playgrounds, and picnic areas with grills.
Bring layers, as it can get quite windy on Castle Island.
There are accessible paths, restrooms, and picnic areas on the island; only the first level of Fort Independence is wheelchair accessible.
Pets are allowed but must be on a leash.
To reach Castle Island by public transportation, take the Red Line to Broadway Station, then transfer to bus number 9 or 11. You can also take the number 7 bus from South Station. There’s free parking near Fort Independence, as well as metered street parking along the beach.
Castle Island can be visited year-round, and the beaches are popular in the summer. On July 4, the USS Constitution makes its annual turnaround cruise, including a 21-gun salute once it reaches the fort. Dogs are not allowed on the beach from May 1 through September 15.
Castle Island has a strategic history dating back to 1634, when it was used as a sea defense for the city of Boston. It played a variety of roles in colonial and revolutionary times. Fort Independence was completed in 1850, the eighth fort to stand at that location; serving as an armory during the Civil War, it continued to be used through World War II. The fort is open from the end of May to early-to-mid-October, and free guided tours are offered on Saturdays and Sundays.
