Castle Island & Pleasure Bay

A South Boston peninsula with a real 19th-century fort (Fort Independence), a flat waterfront loop walk around Pleasure Bay, a small beach, and Sullivan's for hot dogs and fried clams. Free, beloved by locals, and off most tourist radars. Best by car or bus.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is Sullivan's still there and worth it?

Yes, 'Sully's' is a Southie institution, a seasonal walk-up window slinging cheap hot dogs, fried clams, and lobster rolls since 1951. Cash-friendly, lines on nice days, and part of the whole experience. It closes for winter.

Can you go inside Fort Independence?

The granite fort's grounds are open to walk around year-round, and free guided interior tours run on weekends in the warmer months through a volunteer association. Check their schedule, as hours are seasonal and limited.

What is there to do at Castle Island?

Walk the flat looped causeway around Pleasure Bay, tour Fort Independence, swim at the small beach, watch planes land at Logan across the water, and eat at Sullivan's. It's a classic Southie afternoon, free and unpretentious.

When is the best time to go?

Late afternoon into sunset on a warm day, when the light is good over the harbor and Sully's is open. Weekends get busy and parking fills; a weekday evening is more relaxed.

Can you swim there?

Yes, there are small beaches at Pleasure Bay and along the causeway, with calm, shallow water good for kids. It's not a wide sandy beach like the Cape, but it's a fine city swim spot on a hot day. Lifeguards are seasonal.

How do I get to Castle Island without a car?

It's not near a subway stop, which is why it stays local. The 9 or 11 bus gets you close, or you can walk/bike the Harborwalk from the JFK/UMass Red Line stop. Most people drive; there's a free-ish lot that fills on sunny days.

Is it good for a walk or run?

Excellent. The paved loop around Pleasure Bay is flat, scenic, and about 2 miles, popular with walkers, runners, and stroller-pushers. The harbor views and sea breeze make it one of the best free walks in the city.

Is it worth it for tourists?

If you want to see how Bostonians actually spend a nice afternoon, yes. It's not a manufactured attraction, it's a neighborhood park with a fort and a hot dog stand. Pair it with the Seaport, which is nearby.

Nearby in Ask Boston

• Sullivan's Castle IslandRestaurant0.1 km · 1 min walk
• Yankee Lobster Co.Restaurant2.56 km · 32 min walk
• Spectacle IslandPark2.59 km · 32 min walk
• Institute of Contemporary ArtMuseum3.08 km · 39 min walk
• Seaport DistrictNeighborhood3.13 km · 39 min walk