The Peninsula of Squantum
The Peninsula of Squantum is a unique location. Just minutes from Boston with a mile long, 2-lane road attaching it to the mainland. With the exception of the Causeway connection, it is completely surrounded by water. There are only about 1000 homes there so life is less hurried than the connecting mainland. Squantum has two small public beaches - Nickerson and Orchard beaches. For swimming I would have to say Orchard beach would be my choice.
Kayaking To Thompson Island From Squantum
Thompson is one of the islands making up the Boston Harbor Islands National Park. Closer to shore than its better-known siblings grouped around George's Island, and without regular ferry service, Thompson receives little attention and is therefore a great place for some quiet kayaking.
The island is a great destination for a half-day of kayak exploration, far from the masses that invade the other islands in spring and summer. Another advantage is its proximity to Boston: you may be in the water less than 30 minutes after leaving home. The area is well suited to beginners, with relatively protected water and only moderate chop at the northern tip of the island. Thompson also has an interesting feature: at very low tide, a sandbar connects it to the mainland, which may have you carry your kayak over a few yards to complete your tour.
The island has several beaches where you can stop for a rest, particularly on the northwest side. Some other areas are too rocky for a safe landing, especially on the north side. Going ashore and staying on the beach is not a problem, but the island is the property of Outward Bound and visitors should refrain from visiting inland.
Depending on your speed and how long you want to spend ashore, the tour may take 3 hours or more.
Directions are straightforward:
From Nickerson Beach on Dorchester Street, paddle around the small rocky tower and turn right to head north-northeast towards Thompson Island. The sandbar connecting the island to Squantum is directly on your right.
Follow the coastline around the island; on your way back, depending on the tide, you may float over the sandbar, or carry your boat for about 20 yards; between tides, a narrow passage close to the mainland will allow you to paddle through.
Note: The island is not open to the public, except on Sundays, Memorial Day to Labor Day.
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