Castle Island

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.