The South Shore of Massachusetts, located just south of Boston, offers rich history, fresh seafood, and beautiful beaches. Here’s a guide to some of the best the region offers. We’ll explore the towns of the South Shore from Braintree to Plymouth, sample the freshest lobster rolls, spend a day at the beach, and enjoy learning about the region’s storied past. Let’s find some fun South Shore things to do!
Historical Places
The South Shore is chock-full of historic places, so much so that I’ve even written a book about it! Check out “A History Lover’s Guide to the South Shore.” There are plenty of fun, historical South Shore things to do!
*Quincy is often considered part of the South Shore, but we’re leaving the city’s Presidential connections for an upcoming article.
Plymouth
Plymouth is known as “America’s Hometown. ” It was the site of the Pilgrims’ arrival in 1620, and many sites are dedicated to the history of the region’s first European inhabitants and the Wampanoag tribe of Indigenous Peoples, who were native to this area.
Plimoth Patuxet Museum and Mayflower II
A living history museum that recreates the 17th-century Plymouth Colony and a Wampanoag Homesite. Immerse yourself in the early years of the Plimoth Colony. Try asking one of the actors about the current era, and they will be clueless. The Wampanoag Homesite showcases the traditions and culture of the Wampanoag tribe in the present day with a look to its past.
Although the Mayflower is long gone, the replica Mayflower II is docked in Plymouth Harbor and welcomes visitors aboard.
Plymouth Rock
A historic landmark that symbolizes the landing of the Pilgrims. Although ensconced in an elaborate stone portico, the rock is literally a boulder with the year 1620 stamped upon it, but since it’s right downtown, you probably should see it, just don’t expect anything flashy.
Pilgrim Hall Museum
The oldest continuously operating public museum in America, featuring artifacts from the Pilgrims, as well as a rotating exhibit. The museum is two floors and is manageable to explore in an hour. The collection includes Governor Bradford’s chair, John Carver’s sword, paintings, possessions, and artifacts of the Pilgrims
National Monument to the Forefathers
Tucked out of the way, but still within walking distance to downtown, is the National Monument to the Forefathers on Allerton Street. It’s presumed to be the largest granite statue in the country. The figure of Faith stands tall, pointing her finger to the sky where she is flanked by seated figures of Education, Law, Liberty, and Morality, representing ideals of the forefathers and America. Its sheer size is quite impressive; it can be walked or driven around and is free.
Scituate
Scituate’s claim to fame is the action that it almost witnessed in the War of 1812.
Old Scituate Light and The Army of Two
During the War of 1812, two sisters, Rebecca and Abigail Bates, used a fife and drum to create the illusion of a militia, deterring British soldiers from invading Scituate Harbor. The Scituate Lighthouse is now owned by the Scituate Historical Society, with Bob Gallagher as the current lighthouse keeper, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Duxbury
In Duxbury, we’re celebrating the Pilgrim military commander Myles Standish. Visit his statue and his gravesite.
Myles Standish State Reservation
Myles Standish Monument State Reservation in Duxbury commemorates Standish. It features a 116-foot granite tower built to commemorate Pilgrim military commander Myles Standish. The tower has a 14-foot statue of Standish on top, and visitors can climb 125 steps to the top for 360-degree views, including Duxbury, Plymouth Bay, and Blue Hills on a clear day.
Marshfield
Although Marshfield was a Tory town during the Revolution, it did have its revolutionary streak, such as hosting its own tea destroying ceremony. We’re moving ahead in time though, to visit the estate of famed statesman, Daniel Webster.
Daniel Webster Estate
Originally granted to William Thomas in 1640, it was later purchased by Daniel Webster in 1832. The original house burned down, and a new one was built in 1880. Today, the estate is a museum hosting events and showcasing its history, including Webster’s life and elements of the property’s past. He is buried nearby, off of Winslow Cemetery Road
Hingham
The Town of Hingham is simply gorgeous. Impressive colonial architecture, a waterfront, and a walkable downtown all make Hingham special.
Former Military Installations
Hingham has two parks that were formerly military installations. These include Wompatuck State Park and Bare Cove Park. Also, the Hingham Shipyard residential and commercial complex is at the site of the former shipyard, which was highly productive during World War II.
Seafood Restaurants
One of my favorite South Shore things to do that’s not only fun, but so tasty is eating fresh seafood.
Plymouth
Plymouth has several excellent seafood options, from right on the harbor to a country store.
Wood’s Seafood
For the classic fisherman’s platter: fried clams, scallops, fish, and shrimp, look no further than Wood’s Seafood in Plymouth. Although Wood’s is located on the Town Wharf, with many touristy restaurants, Wood’s satisfies the locals. It’s my go-to fish market, and their restaurant is tops for seafood in Plymouth. For this platter, the batter is light and doesn’t mask the tastiness of the seafood morsel itself. Enjoy this mound of golden dipped seafood and you’ll see why Wood’s is a winner.
Bramhall’s
Bramhall’s Country Store is located in Chiltonville, Plymouth, Massachusetts. Bramhall’s has been in the same family since 1828 and is housed in a building dating back to 1750. The store is a community gathering place known for its fresh, locally sourced food, including lobster rolls, ice cream, and produce. The lobster for the rolls is served right from the tank. Assemble your own roll with a container of tasty meat, bun, and mayo if you wish.
Rock Bottom Seafood
For a tasty spin on what one thinks of a New England clam chowder, try Rock Bottom Seafood in the Cedarville section of Plymouth. Nothing fancy here, just simply great chowder. Rock Bottom is a mostly take-out restaurant serving the classic New England seafood staples.
Marshfield
Marshfield has many excellent seafood restaurants, but here are two that are right on the water.
Green Harbor Lobster Pound
For the true New England seafood shack summer eating experience, head to the Green Harbor Lobster Pound. This no-frills, seafood stand is only open seasonally and is a true gem. It is the real deal, the prices are reasonable, and the seating is at picnic tables overlooking a harbor inlet. Their fare consists of fried platters, shrimp, fish, clams, and the like, but the lobster roll is king here. It comes in two sizes: regular and jumbo. Warning: the jumbo is huge! French fries and onion rings accompany the seafood choices. Lobsters and steamers are cooked to order. Nothing quite says summer in Marshfield like the lobster pound! Bring your own drinks, cash, or check only.
Roht Marine
Offers a casual dining experience with a variety of seafood choices right on the North River. Expect fried seafood favorites or just enjoy a drink on the patio.
Beaches
If you’re looking for things to do in the South Shore during the summer, the beach is it!
Plymouth Beaches
Long Beach
Plymouth Long Beach in Massachusetts offers various beach experiences, including swimming, sunbathing, and rental properties. It has a public section with paid parking and a seafood shack called Sandy’s, and a more remote, less crowded section with beautiful sand at the end of the three-mile peninsula. The beach has a historical past, mentioned in early maps and associated with historical events, including captures of Native Americans and damage from severe storms. Visiting Long Beach in the summertime is a must, and head out to the point if you can.
White Horse Beach
White Horse Beach is a gorgeous arc-shaped sandy stretch of beach in the Manomet section of town. Parking in season is only for residents. Manomet is hopping in the summer, as the rentals and cottages are brimming with renters, though.
Nantasket Beach
Located in Hull, Nantasket Beach offers a lively atmosphere with a boardwalk and amusement area. Once home to Paragon Park amusement park, only the carousel remains. Nantasket draws the crowds in the summertime for its beach and other fun attractions.
Green Harbor Beach
With soft white sand and swells of the sea lapping at your feet, the Green Harbor beach in Marshfield is a perfect South Shore beach. Marshfield beaches are for residents in season.
Scituate Beaches
Lighthouse Beach
The rocky coast on the perimeter is free to roam around, especially great for kids with sandy patches
Peggotty Beach
A smaller, quieter beach is ideal for families. It’s also dog-friendly after hours. Scituate beaches must be accessed with a sticker (not including Lighthouse Beach). The public can buy stickers for this beach on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Harbormaster’s office.
Cohasset Beaches
Sandy Beach
Situated on the impressively exquisite Atlantic Avenue in Cohasset, this beach lives up to its name, it’s full of fine sand. This fills up quickly on summer weekends and for out-of-towners, you’re only allowed in with a Cohasset sticker. For the rest of us, we are still allowed to drive by and enjoy the pretty view while meandering our way along the coast of Cohasset. Sandy Beach is a popular spot with soft sand and gentle waves
Bassings Beach
A secluded beach offering a more tranquil experience. View boats out in the water at this beach, which also needs a town sticker to park at.
If you’re planning a trip this summer exploring the South Shore of Massachusetts, make sure to add these historical attractions, beaches, and seafood restaurants to your list!
