A small tidal island in New Bedford's outer harbor topped by the 1849 Palmer Island Light. It's reachable on foot across a sand spit near the Hurricane Barrier only during the roughly two hours around low tide, or by private boat the rest of the time. It has no playground, restroom, or parking of its own since it isn't a conventional mainland park.
What to expect
Parking
Free lot Seasonal fee applies at Fort Taber (see that park's entry); free off-season · unconfirmed
Hours
No fixed hours; access is tide-dependent (roughly two hours around low tide via the sand spit).
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible; reaching the island means crossing an uneven sand/rock spit that is only exposed at low tide.
Hiking/Tidal Walking
Allowed low-tide windows only
Lighthouse Viewing/Photography
Allowed
Managed by
Parks, Recreation & Beaches Department
508-961-3015 · WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Free lot
CostSeasonal fee applies at Fort Taber (see that park's entry); free off-season
Details unconfirmed
Common questions
Can I walk out to Palmer Island?
Yes, but only during the roughly two-hour window around low tide, by crossing a sand spit near the Hurricane Barrier. Outside that window it's cut off, or reachable only by boat.
Are there restrooms or parking on the island?
No. The nearest restroom and the nearest parking are both back at Fort Taber Park on the mainland.
Where do I park at Palmer Island Park?
Free lot (Seasonal fee applies at Fort Taber (see that park's entry); free off-season).
Is there an entry fee at Palmer Island Park?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Palmer Island Park?
Unconfirmed.
Is Palmer Island Park wheelchair accessible?
Not wheelchair accessible; reaching the island means crossing an uneven sand/rock spit that is only exposed at low tide.
What rules should I know at Palmer Island Park?
Only attempt the crossing during the low-tide window; the sand spit floods at other tide stages and stranding is a real risk.