The island is named for the wild beach plum shrubs that grow on its dunes, but is also famous for the purple sands at high tide, which get their color from tiny crystals of pink pyrope garnet. It is located in parts of four municipalities in Essex County.
Is Plum Island worth visiting?
Located right in Massachusetts on the coast, Plum Island is one of the most beautiful places to visit in New England. It may only be 11 miles long at its longest, but with its prime location by the water, Plum Island is absolutely scenic and breathtaking.
Why is Plum Island restricted?
The center conducts research on animal pathogens to protect farmers, ranchers, and the national food supply. Because of the nature of the research, access to the island and the research facility is restricted.
Is there anything on Plum Island?
There are three popular Plum Island Beach destinations on the island: The Refuge, Plum Island Center and The North Point. As you come across the bridge towards Plum Island, turn right on Sunset Drive to reach the Refuge entrance.
Why do they call it Plum Island?
A barrier beach island located off the coast of Newbury and Newburyport in northeastern Massachusetts, Plum Island (named for the beach plums that grow wild along its dunes) is a popular summer destination — and with good reason.
Does Plum Island have a boardwalk?
There are many places to pull over, with small parking lots, and boardwalks. There are several restrooms throughout the park.
How much does it cost to get into Plum Island?
These fees are $10 on weekdays and $12 on weekends & holidays. Note: If you arrive before the lot attendant is on duty, an envelope will be placed on your car and your information will be recorded.
What happened on Plum Island?
Since 1954, the center has been tasked with protecting America’s livestock from animal diseases. During the Cold War, a secret biological weapons program targeting livestock was conducted at the site, which ended in 1969 when President Nixon declared an end to the United States’ offensive bioweapons program.
Is Plum Island open to non residents?
It’s the perfect spot to park if you’re planning on hitting North Point Beach or visiting the Plum Island Light House. For non-residents, parking is $15 on weekdays and $20 on holidays and weekends.
Who owns the Pink House on Plum Island?
The Pink House is an uninhabited historic house and popular photography and painting subject located at 60 Plum Island Turnpike, Newbury, Massachusetts, United States. The house was built in 1925 and was privately owned until it was sold to Parker River National Wildlife Refuge for $375,000 in 2011.
Why is the sand purple on Plum Island?
The purple color (or more appropriately, pink color) comes from the abundance of almandine-pyrope garnet with a nominal solid solution composition of Fe3+2Al2Si3O12 to Mg3+2Al2Si3O12.
Can you stay on Plum Island?
Once largely a summer getaway, Plum Island is increasingly a year-round community. The island has many residences, a national wildlife refuge, restaurants, an inn on the beach, and of course miles of beautiful sandy beaches.
Can you swim at Plum Island?
Located at the southern tip of Plum Island, Sandy Point stretches 77 acres. It features a beautiful coastal beach great for swimming and sunbathing.
Are there sharks at Plum Island?
Great White shark spotted close to a shore on Plum Island, Monday 7am. As global climate change has steadily increased the temperate Northeast waters, more and more sharks have been swimming closer to Massachusetts.
Is Plum Island Nice?
Plum Island Beach is a beautiful place to spend the day playing in the sand, walking the beach, and just relaxing in the sunshine. Don’t forget about the other two beaches mentioned above: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge and Sandy Point State Reservation. All of Plum Island’s beaches are fun-in-the-water oases.
Is there a ferry to Plum Island?
There is 1 way to get from New London to Plum Island by car ferry. Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2rio’s travel planner.
What is the population of Plum Island?
22,000
The 11-mile island is actually divided between four towns and cities and has an estimated population of 22,000 (similar to Hingham). One road leads you over Plum Island River via a charming old drawbridge and past Plum Island Airport, the oldest private airfield in the United States.
What animals live on Plum Island?
Plum Island is a sanctuary to many endangered species including Roseate Terns, Piping Plovers, Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtles, Porpoises, North Atlantic Right Whales, and Harbor and Grey Seals.
Is Plum beach private?
What is Plum Point Shores Improvement Association? PPSIA is an association of Plum Point residents who work together to maintain our private beach and provide facilities for its use and enjoyment.
Is there a bridge to Plum Island?
Beautiful, relaxing area overlooking the marshes!
Can you walk from Newburyport to Plum Island?
3 miles (4.8 km) one-way. A pleasant, paved path that runs from Newburyport Commuter Rail station to the water for 1.2 miles, where you can continue along waterfront paths. Industrial at first, then pleasant through downtown. Can also run over the Bridge, and continue along the trail for another mile.