Mattapoisett is a seaside town located on the South Coast of Massachusetts. Although close to my home region of the South Shore, the South Coast is mostly uncharted for me. On a recent ride through the region, I stumbled upon the beauty of marvelous Mattapoisett.
The main thoroughfares of the South Coast are both Route 6 and Interstate 195. I had seen Mattapoisett from these roads but had never ventured into the center of town.
Wow! This coastal village has a bit of an Edgartown feel without the onslaught of tourists or commerce. Mattapoisett is quaint. North Shore towns such as Marblehead and Manchester-by-the-Sea or Stonington, Connecticut, are also good points of reference for the village. Much of it is residential, so the activities stick to mostly walking the streets or grabbing a drink at the Inn at Shipyard Park (formerly the Mattapoisett Inn). I drove by the Mattapoisett Museum, but it was closed due to the current pandemic.
Ned’s Point
Speaking of worthwhile sites, marvelous Mattapoisett contains the lighthouse gem, Ned’s Point Lighthouse. It is located at the end of Ned’s Point Road, full of gorgeous homes. Ned’s Point is a classic, white lighthouse topped by a black beacon. The park is encircled by a driveway/parking lot with the ocean just beyond. There is a beach nearby. It’s a perfect spot to walk, look at the water, or explore.
It must be summer in Mattapoisett with the opening of the Oxford Creamery. Located close by on Route 6, Oxford Creamery has a selection of ice cream flavors as well as grill menu items such as hot dogs, lobster rolls, and french fries. Currently, it is operating out of a portable truck located on the premises called the Oxcart. Grab something to eat and head to Ned’s Point (currently, call-ahead only). Since this was our last destination in Mattapoisett, we just ate our ice cream in the parking lot, with coffee as my choice of flavor.
From what I’ve experienced on the South Coast of Massachusetts, I will soon be back to explore this area further. Mattapoisett’s quaint streets and coastal vibe make it a worthwhile visit this summer. Looking for activities close by? Try here and here.
