Parker River National Wildlife Refuge covers a vast swathe of Plum Island. It's a great place for barefoot adventures, with sandy beaches, rolling dunes and salt marshes to explore. It's also prime bird watching territory, with boardwalks and lookouts making it easy to spot wood warblers, waterfowl, hawks, snowy owls and endangered piping plovers, so don't forget your binoculars. For a glimpse at Plum Island's seafaring legacy don't miss the Custom House Maritime Museum. It's housed in a heritage listed granite building and is brimming with artefacts, photos and tiny models of clipper ships.
Perched on the southern tip of Plum Island, Sandy Point State Reservation is a great place to swim, sunbathe and beachcomb. Want to stay just steps from the sand? Check out Plum Island vacation rentals with breezy decks, shabby chic decor and sweeping ocean views. For a lively street scene, head to Newburyport, a laid-back town at the mouth of the Merrimack River. It was once a flourishing shipping port and is lined with characterful brick buildings and Federal-style churches. If Plum Island vacation rentals feel a little secluded, why not stay in a heritage property in the heart of Newburyport?
Crowds peak in the summer, when Plum Island is drenched in sunshine. The weather is sultry and temperatures creep well into the 80s. This means swimming, sunbathing and sandcastle building are all top priorities. For quieter beaches and a low-key atmosphere, why not plan a vacation for late spring or early fall? If you're craving rest and relaxation, consider visiting Plum Island in winter. You can enjoy windswept walks on the beach, rolling waves and cozy nights by the fireplace of your Plum Island vacation rental.
Overlooking the the Atlantic Ocean, Plum Island is made up of sandy beaches, salt marshes and tidal creeks. It's almost entirely protected, with Parker River National Wildlife Refuge and Sandy Point State Reservation occupying most of the island. The island is a bucket list destination for birders and serves as an important habitat for endangered piping plovers, which love to nest on its sandy beaches. If whales are on your wish list, visit from May to October, when hundreds of humpbacks migrate along the Plum Island coast.
Fly into Beverly, MA (BVY-Beverly Municipal), the closest airport, located 15.6 mi (25.1 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you could book a flight to Lawrence, MA (LWM-Lawrence Municipal), which is 16.7 mi (26.9 km) away.
Our 2021 property listings offer a large selection of 121 vacation rentals around Plum Island. From 91 house rentals to 27 cottage rentals, find a unique house rental for you to enjoy a memorable holiday or a weekend with your family and friends.