Boston is often called “The Cradle of Liberty” because of its significance to the American Revolution and has been a popular tourist attraction for its exciting historic venues. But nearby Boston is another vacation destination worthy of your attention. Located on a narrow peninsula just south of Beantown is the captivating coastal town of Hull, known for its long, sandy Nantasket Beach. Strictly speaking, Hull is actually made up of a group of islands connected by sandbars to form the scenic Nantasket Peninsula.
It’s conveniently situated about 30 miles by car from Boston or an hour away on the public ferry. The easiest way to get to Hull is to fly into Boston’s Logan Airport or fly to New York and take a leisurely 4-hour drive. Aside from exquisite views of the Boston skyline and Boston Harbor, visitors flock to Hull for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing at the serene beaches.
Want to stay a while? Take your choice of bed and breakfasts, or the Nantasket Beach Resort, a hotel smack-dab on the ocean which offers a pool, a hot tub, fitness center, and more. Prepare for divine sunsets right out of your window. Dine on authentic New England fare right across the street at the SandBar, pick up sandwiches for a picnic at the Breadbasket, or hit California Underground for Mexican specialties. While you’re so close to Boston, be sure to visit America’s oldest public park, the Boston Common.
Learn about the Origins of the U.S. Coastguard at the Hull Lifesaving Museum
Located on the Atlantic Ocean, Hull has been involved in the lifesaving efforts in the dangerous, treacherous waters of the Boston Harbor for centuries. Learn more about hero Joshua James who saved more than 1,000 lives from shipwrecks and is considered the founder of the U.S. Coastguard. The Hull Lifesaving Museum is located in the fully-restored 19th-century Point Allerton U.S. Lifesaving Station, the actual home of Joshua James and his crew. Exhibits, programs, and special events like authentic reenactments will give you insight into the schooners, nor’easters, shipwrecks, rescues and maritime history that made Hull famous.
The highlight of the summer season is the annual Harbor Illumination Festival, held on the last Saturday of July every year. One thousand flares are ignited on the shoreline with a single bagpiper rowing alongside, creating a magical spectacle of light and sound.