10 Easy Day Trip Ideas for Plum Island and Newburyport, Massachusetts
Between the beaches and restaurants, Plum Island and Newburyport has so much to offer and is an easy day trip from Boston. Plum Island is only a short drive from Newburyport so you can easily see both in one day or weekend.
Here are 10 fun things to do on your day trip to Newburyport and Plum Island!
xx, Heather
1. Picnic on the beach
Pack a bag full of snacks and drinks and relax on the barrier island beach, Plum Island. The north end of the beach, near the Plum Island Lighthouse, is more family-friendly with a large parking lot and nearby playground. At the southern side of the island you’ll find a long stretch of beach and sand dunes within the Parker River Wildlife Refuge. There are a few designated parking areas but if you’re willing to walk a little once you find a parking spot you can find a quiet place all to yourself.
2. Explore the wildlife refuge
In addition to the beach on the southern end of the island, you’ll find a maritime forest, marsh, and sand dunes. Once you pay to enter the Parker River Wildlife Refuge you’ll have access to the beach on one side, and the marsh on the other. The marsh is also a popular birdwatching spot due to the high number of migratory birds. Take some time to explore the trails within the reserve and go to the top of the observation tower for the views and a great picture spot.
3. Snap a photo of The Pink House
On your way out of the Plum Island, across from Bob’s Lobster, you’ll pass The Pink House. Built in 1925, the house is uninhabited and is a historic landmark on Plum Island. It’s often used in local artists’ paintings and photographs and is now protected as part of the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge.
4. Get coffee at Souffles Newburyport
Stop in to Souffles in Newburyport and grab a coffee or chai to enjoy while you explore the town. Souffles, located in the center of town on Market Square, has been a stable in Newburyport for over 25 years and they use all organic fair trade coffee.
5. Window shop in town
The downtown area of Newbury is so quaint. All the storefronts are in little brick buildings with historic charm. Even if you don’t plan on shopping, you should definitely spend time exploring the little streets and doing some window shopping. I love that Newburyport has managed to retain its New England maritime charm despite all the new shops and restaurants that have opened in town.
6. Walk along the waterfront promenade
The best part about Newburyport is the proximity to the water. They’ve created a long promenade along the waterfront right in town. It’s the perfect place to stroll when you’re done with the shops. Find a bench and just watch the boats go by. It’s also dog friendly so there are tons of pups!
7. Eat fresh oysters at Sea Level Oyster Bar
We couldn’t go to Newburyport without getting fresh seafood. After a walk on the promenade you’ll run into the an outdoor patio with bright blue umbrellas. We got a table for two fairly quickly, even on a busy Sunday, and asked to sit outside. They have a great oyster and raw bar selection, but their fish tacos were also SO good.
8. Oder tea at Ladyfinger Lounge
This is a spot we did not make it to on our last trip and I will 100% go back just for this tea lounge. Ladyfinger Lounge, part of the Garrison Inn, is a newer spot in Newburyport and is the perfect place to bring a group of girlfriends. It reminds me of Sketch in London, and is now a sought after Instagram spot in the area for their the whole vibe of the lounge. The interior is pink, with pink velvet seating, and decked out with antique portraits of women on the walls.
9.Visit Newburyport Brewery
If you’re in Newburyport with a guy, they’ll likely not want to visit Ladyfinger Lounge, so check out the Newburyport Brewery instead. It’s fairly close to the main section of town making it easy to swing there before or after lunch for a few brews.
10. Have dinner at Brine
If you like raw seafood, crudo, and ceviche dishes, this will be your spot. Brine is the sister restaurant to Oak + Rowan in Boston’s Fort Point neighborhood, and uses fresh seasonal ingredients on their menu. I have yet to try this place but have heard great things about it and will be definitely coming here next time.
