Harbor parks in Westport, Massachusetts

Old Harbor Wildlife Refuge is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 383 Old Harbor Road in Westport, Massachusetts, United States. This beautiful refuge offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse wildlife and natural habitats found in the area. With stunning views, walking trails, and plenty of opportunities for bird watching and photography, Old Harbor Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind in a peaceful setting or want to learn more about the local ecosystem, this refuge provides a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

Welcome to Pease Park, a scenic and versatile outdoor destination located at 8 Pease Street, Fairhaven, Massachusetts. Nestled on the bustling shores of inner New Bedford Harbor, Pease Park is managed by the town of Fairhaven and offers an array of amenities for both boating enthusiasts and local residents seeking a peaceful retreat. For those looking to explore the open waters, Pease Park boasts one of three public boat ramps in the area, including the Jim Holmes Memorial Boat Ramp. This facility accommodates vessels up to 50 feet, providing easy access to the vibrant waters of Buzzards Bay. With convenient trailer parking for a small daily fee and dinghy storage available, launching your next maritime adventure has never been easier. However, please be mindful of the heavy marine traffic in this industrial harbor.

Welcome to Shoolman Nature Preserve, a hidden gem located at 184-240 New Bedford Road, Rochester, Massachusetts. This serene park is a nature lover's paradise, offering a peaceful escape into the beauty of fields and pine forests along the Mattapoisett River. Once a family farm known as "Oldfield," the property is now a haven for birds and explorers alike, thanks to the generous donation by the Shoolman family and the dedicated efforts of the Mattapoisett Land Trust and the Rochester Land Trust. At Shoolman Preserve, you can embark on a leisurely walk along our flat, easy trails that wind through hayfields, forests, and freshwater wetlands. Whether you're a bird enthusiast, a nature photographer, or simply someone seeking a breath of fresh air, you'll find plenty to admire. Look out for the diverse birdlife, including titmice, chickadees, bobolinks, and meadowlarks, as well as deer, foxes, wood frogs, and box turtles.

The Paquachuck Inn, located at 2056 Main Road in Westport, Massachusetts, invites you to experience a historic stay on the coast. Built in 1827 by privateer Issac Cory, this three-story post and beam building once served as a ship chandlery, general store, customs house, and post office. Original artifacts from its maritime past, such as store cabinets and harpoons, can still be found throughout the inn. Situated on Westport Point, with views of the harbor entrance, fishing fleet, and oyster farm, the Paquachuck Inn offers a glimpse into the town's rich history. The name "Paquachuck" comes from the local clam, the quahog, and reflects the area's Native American heritage.

Welcome to Hamlin Crossing, a serene oasis nestled at 126 Hamlin Street in Acushnet, Massachusetts. As one of the Buzzards Bay Coalition's newest properties, Hamlin Crossing offers a peaceful retreat within the Acushnet River Reserve. This picturesque park invites visitors to explore its 9 acres of restored wildflower fields, tranquil woodlands, and scenic river views, all part of the Coalition’s efforts to protect and preserve the natural beauty and ecological health of Buzzards Bay. Awarded the 2021 Coastal Stewardship Award by the Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation, the Buzzards Bay Coalition is dedicated to the restoration, protection, and sustainable enjoyment of the Bay and its watershed. At Hamlin Crossing, you can witness firsthand the Coalition’s commitment to conservation and community engagement.

Welcome to Tinkhamtown Woodlands, a serene sanctuary nestled at 29 Long Plain Road in the heart of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts. As part of the expansive Mattapoisett River Reserve, this enchanting park offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore over 100 acres of pristine forests and wetlands, all while contributing to the protection of clean drinking water for thousands of local residents. Tinkhamtown Woodlands is a treasured property of the Buzzards Bay Coalition, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of Buzzards Bay and its watershed. This area is also supported by the Mattapoisett Land Trust, which has been enriching the community's quality of life since 1974 through land conservation.

Welcome to the Horseneck Point Life-Saving Station, a unique historical gem located at 241 East Beach Road in Westport, Massachusetts. Managed by the Buzzards Bay Coalition, this state-owned station is part of the Horseneck Beach State Reservation and offers a fascinating glimpse into Westport's rich maritime history. Originally built in 1888 by the Humane Society of Massachusetts, the Life-Saving Station was one of 69 coastal rescue stations established to aid mariners in distress along Buzzards Bay’s treacherous coastline. After a storied past as a restaurant, bar, and even an ice cream parlor, the station was meticulously restored to its original appearance in 2009 and reopened as a museum and visitor center in 2014.

Welcome to Shipyard Farm, a hidden gem located at 721 Sconticut Neck Road, Fairhaven, Massachusetts. Nestled along the tranquil shores of Nasketucket Bay, Shipyard Farm offers visitors a unique blend of scenic beauty and natural exploration. Managed under a conservation restriction by the Buzzards Bay Coalition, this park promises an enriching outdoor experience for all ages. As you embark on the well-marked trails, you'll journey through picturesque farmland, vibrant salt marshes, and lush coastal woods. The easy half-hour walk is perfect for introducing young explorers to the wonders of nature. Along the way, keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, from deer and rabbits to ospreys and herons, each thriving in the rich habitat diversity.