Near Martha’s Vineyard Lies a Hidden Massachusetts Island with Rocky Beaches, Abundant Wildlife, and Tranquil Hills

The scenic southern coast of Massachusetts is bordered by a chain of islands referred to as the Elizabethan Islands. This chain of more than 20 mostly untouched pieces of land extends southwest from Cape Cod for miles. The island chain is located between the city of New Bedford on the mainland and north of the iconic American island of Martha’s Vineyard. This stretch of islands also includes summer destinations, like Cuttyhunk Island, that are open to the public as well as islands with private homes, like Naushon Island, that are not open to the public. However, one of the most underrated Elizabethan Islands is Penikese Island, a state-owned wildlife sanctuary with rocky beaches, rolling hills, and a fascinating history.

Sitting just 12 miles south of New Bedford and accessible by boat, Penikese Island is very close to the shores of New England yet completely detached from the mainland with an ecosystem of its own. These days it’s the wildlife settlements, unique species of rare birds, and unmatched terrain that make this a sought after destination. Penikese Island caters to nature-lovers and those who want to explore a new corner of New England. Today, the state-owned island remains free of any commercial development and is a thriving habitat for birds and wildlife that call it home.

While the Wampanoag Native Americans likely already knew about the island long before, the written history of Penikese is traced back as early as 1602, when it was first found by European settlers. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that a leprosy hospital was constructed on the island to host patients and intentionally separate them from the mainland. After decades on the island, funding for the hospital eventually dried up. Once the hospital shut down and patients were moved to a federal facility, the island took on new life as a school of natural history and then as a research laboratory. For a period from 1973 to 2011, Penikese was reimagined as a reform school for troubled youth. However, this school also eventually closed.

In 2019, the Penikese Island School took up residence on the island. The school was created as a non-profit with the goal of providing immersive educational experiences in nature, using the island as the classroom. The organization brings groups of students and children to the island regularly for summer camps and encourages them to explore the natural surroundings and wildlife of Penikese while learning about local history. A trip to the island allows for panoramic views of Buzzards Bay as well as the chance to spot rare birds, as the island’s rocky beaches and gentle hills are excellent habitats for nesting seabirds. Luckily, the Penikese Island School also offers tours for groups of adults and nature lovers looking to spend a day birding and exploring the terrain.