Note - this article has not been updated for 2020 and Covid-19. Some locations may not be open due to the pandemic. Please remember to follow appropriate social distancing, as well as local and state guidelines.
When the good weather returns to New England and the South Shore, we immediately want to be outside as much as possible. Let’s savor every single moment of the extra daylight, sun on our faces, and spring in our step.
While we never leave home without a snack in our fanny pack, sometimes it is even more fun to bring along a picnic. Bonus? You get to sit and enjoy the view that much longer. The South Shore has some really beautiful spots so let’s settle down and enjoy them.
Our Favorite Benches + Docks
Driftway - Scituate // best sunset, dusk views. Perfect for taking your next family picture! There are two docks with seating.
Norris Reservation - Norwell // views along the North River from a little hut. Also, several benches scattered throughout the trail system.
John Little - Marshfield // Dock is located along the river about 1.5 miles in. Lots of peace and quiet!
World’s End - Hingham // Beautiful views of the Boston skyline!
Willow Brook Farm - Pembroke // Viewpoint is from a small tower. Tower has some benches for seating.
Need a Picnic Table?
Miller Woods - Norwell // smaller, very woodsy trail. Table is located just off the entrance.
Turkey Hill - Hingham // Located right at the top of the hill. Great peaceful views and plenty of space for kids to run. Dog-friendly.
Norris Reservation - Norwell // Located just off the dam down by the rushing stream. Site is dog-friendly and you can take a longer walk after eating.
Jacobs Pond - Norwell // Located on the island portion of the trail. Plenty of parking!
Luddam Ford Park - Hanover // Located along the Indian Head River. Approachable hikes, plus a boat ramp!
Pack a blanket?
Couch Beach - Marshfield // Quiet spot along the North River.
Bay Farm - Duxbury // After you cross through the big fields, you can take your blanket to the beach/rocky area down by the water
Rexhame - Marshfield // Enjoy either the ocean or the marsh. Lots of places to settle in and enjoy the view.
Jen F is the force behind South Shore Trails - a community resource for finding that next great trail! Find them online at southshoretrails.com and don't forget to follow them on Facebook, and Instagram. Don't miss their awesome, interactive trails map and trail stroller scores!
Macaroni Kid South Shore Boston is a free weekly newsletter and website focused on fun family events and information in 13 towns on Boston's South Shore. We gather together all kinds of local family events and activities each week and add useful information about classes, family-focused businesses, book and product reviews, recipes, crafts, school and camp guides and more. We proudly serve families in Hanover, Norwell, Hingham, Cohasset, Scituate, Hull, Marshfield, Duxbury, Pembroke, Whitman, Hanson, Rockland, and Abington! Subscribe for free at ssboston.macaronikid.com/subscribe/.
