A 31-acre island about 500 feet offshore, mostly owned by Mass Audubon and home to the historic 1896 Straitsmouth Island Light. Unlike Milk Island, there IS real public visitor access, but only by boat and only on a limited seasonal schedule: launches run from Granite Pier via the Thacher & Straitsmouth Islands Association, with no dock, so landing depends on calm conditions.
What to expect
Parking
Resident sticker resident sticker / public fee parking on the upper level · unconfirmed
Trails
Short walking paths around the light station area; not a hiking destination.
Dogs
Not posted; given the seasonal, boat-only, wildlife-sanctuary nature of the visit, assume dogs are not part of the normal visitor program pending confirmation.
Hours
Launches depart from Granite Pier; groups of more than 5 boats must call ahead; visitors should plan to arrive before the keepers close at 5pm.
Accessibility
No dock and irregular rocky landing; not documented as wheelchair accessible.
Managed by
Mass Audubon / Thacher & Straitsmouth Islands Association
781-259-9500 · WebsiteCommon questions
How do I get to Straitsmouth Island?
Only by boat, via a seasonal launch program run with the Thacher & Straitsmouth Islands Association departing Granite Pier; there's no bridge or regular ferry.
Is Straitsmouth Island open all year?
No - the public boat program runs roughly June through August, on a limited schedule of specific days.
Where do I park at Straitsmouth Island Wildlife Sanctuary?
Resident sticker (resident sticker / public fee parking on the upper level).
Is there an entry fee at Straitsmouth Island Wildlife Sanctuary?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Straitsmouth Island Wildlife Sanctuary?
Not posted; given the seasonal, boat-only, wildlife-sanctuary nature of the visit, assume dogs are not part of the normal visitor program pending confirmation.
Is Straitsmouth Island Wildlife Sanctuary wheelchair accessible?
No dock and irregular rocky landing; not documented as wheelchair accessible.
What rules should I know at Straitsmouth Island Wildlife Sanctuary?
No dock; landings depend on calm sea conditions and are not guaranteed.