Discover the Wonders of NOAA - Stellwagen Banks National Marine Sanctuary
Explore the breathtaking Stellwagen Banks National Marine Sanctuary, a marine paradise for whale watching and underwater adventures in Scituate, Massachusetts.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Stellwagen Banks National Marine Sanctuary in Scituate, Massachusetts. This protected marine area is a haven for diverse marine life and offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich underwater ecosystems and enjoy exceptional whale watching experiences.
A brief summary to NOAA - Stellwagen Banks National Marine Sanctuary
- McLean Dr, Scituate, Scituate, Massachusetts, 02066, US
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your whale watching tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
- Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the incredible wildlife and scenery.
- Dress in layers, as the ocean breeze can be chilly, even on warm days.
- Check the local tide charts and weather conditions before planning your visit.
- Consider visiting the sanctuary's visitor center for educational resources and information on marine conservation.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Plymouth, head northeast on Main St toward Samoset St. Continue on Samoset St, then take a right onto State Rd. Follow State Rd until you reach the junction with MA-3A. Merge onto MA-3A N and continue for about 10 miles. Turn left onto McLean Dr, and you will find NOAA - Stellwagen Banks National Marine Sanctuary on your left.
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Public Transportation
To reach NOAA - Stellwagen Banks National Marine Sanctuary via public transport, start at the Plymouth MBTA station. Take the commuter rail to South Station in Boston. Transfer to the MBTA's Red Line towards Alewife and get off at Ashmont. From Ashmont, take the Mattapan Trolley to Mattapan Station. Finally, catch the #220 bus towards Scituate. Get off at the stop closest to McLean Dr, and walk towards McLean Dr – the sanctuary should be nearby.
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Car
If you are coming from Hingham, take MA-3A S towards Scituate. Follow MA-3A for approximately 6 miles. Turn right onto McLean Dr, and the NOAA - Stellwagen Banks National Marine Sanctuary will be on your left. Look for signage indicating the sanctuary as you approach.
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Public Transportation
If you are starting from Marshfield, take the #230 bus towards Scituate. Get off at the Scituate Harbor stop. From there, you may need to walk about 1.5 miles along Front St and then onto McLean Dr. Keep an eye out for directional signs leading to NOAA - Stellwagen Banks National Marine Sanctuary.
Discover more about NOAA - Stellwagen Banks National Marine Sanctuary
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cushing Memorial State Park
4.0 km
Discover the serene landscapes and rich history of Cushing Memorial State Park, a peaceful retreat in Scituate, Massachusetts.
Minots Light
8.5 km
Explore Minot's Light, a historic lighthouse in Scituate, MA, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into maritime history.
Winslow House
14.7 km
Experience the charm of colonial America at Winslow House, a historic museum in Marshfield, MA, showcasing stunning architecture and rich history.
Hingham Historical Society
14.7 km
Explore Hingham's rich heritage at the Hingham Historical Society, a captivating museum showcasing the area's historical treasures and engaging exhibits.
The Old Ordinary - A House Museum of the Hingham Historical Society
15.1 km
Explore the rich history of Hingham at The Old Ordinary, a charming house museum showcasing 18th-century New England life.
Myles Standish Homestead
21.6 km
Explore the Myles Standish Homestead, a historical landmark in Duxbury, Massachusetts, showcasing early American settler life amidst serene landscapes.
Fort Warren
21.8 km
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Boston Harbor Islands National & State Park
22.7 km
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Souther Tide Mill
23.0 km
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Passanageset Park at Broad Meadows Marsh
23.1 km
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Abigail Adams Cairn
23.2 km
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John Adams and John Quincy Adams Birthplaces - Adams National Historical Park
23.8 km
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Mt. Wollaston Cemetery
23.9 km
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United First Parish Church
24.1 km
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Colonel John Quincy Gravestone
24.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Scituate Lighthouse
0.7 km
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Lawson Tower
3.0 km
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Maritime and Irish Mossing Museum
3.1 km
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Mass Audubon's North River Wildlife Sanctuary
5.3 km
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Two Mile Farm
9.6 km
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Wompatuck State Park
10.5 km
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South Shore Natural Science
10.9 km
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South Shore YMCA Natural Science
10.9 km
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South Shore Celebration of Lights
11.4 km
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Mass Audubon's Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary
12.8 km
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Paragon Carousel
13.8 km
Experience nostalgia and joy at Paragon Carousel, a historic amusement ride with hand-carved wooden horses in Hull, Massachusetts.
Trustees of Reservations
14.3 km
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World's End
14.3 km
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South Shore Model Railway Club & Museum
16.5 km
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Osprey Overlook Park
17.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Mill Wharf
0.4 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Mill Wharf, where coastal charm meets culinary excellence in Scituate, Massachusetts.
Cheever Tavern
7.4 km
Experience the best of American comfort food at Cheever Tavern in Norwell - where delicious flavors meet friendly service.
bia bistro
8.2 km
Discover exquisite American, French, and Mediterranean cuisine at Bia Bistro in Cohasset - a must-visit culinary haven for food lovers.
Lenny's Hideaway
8.3 km
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Liv Creative Cuisine
12.0 km
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The Corner Stop Eatery
12.3 km
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Mother Anna's Restaurant and Bar
12.5 km
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Jake's Seafood Restaurant
13.8 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Jake's Seafood Restaurant in Hull, Massachusetts - where flavor meets coastal charm.
Scarlet Oak Tavern
13.9 km
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Tosca
14.5 km
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Route 53 Tavern
14.7 km
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Square Cafe Hingham
14.8 km
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The Greenside Grille Restaurant
15.5 km
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Lucca - Rockland
15.5 km
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The Sun Tavern
15.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Joye
0.5 km
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Harbor Light Toy Company
0.5 km
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Expressions - Local Artisan Co-op
0.6 km
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Out of the Blue
0.6 km
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Goodies II
0.6 km
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Mrs. Mekler's Mercantile
8.2 km
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Patina Antique Mall
9.7 km
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Coastal Treasures
11.9 km
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Off the Rack
13.7 km
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Queen Anne Plaza
13.9 km
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Artisans In the Square
14.8 km
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Derby Street Shops
15.8 km
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South Shore Trains and More
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Meetinghouse Mill Gift Stop
18.3 km
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Pleasant Shops
19.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
TKO Malley's Sports Cafe
0.5 km
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Vine Bar
0.6 km
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Hibernian Tavern
0.6 km
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Galley Kitchen & Bar
0.7 km
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Rivershed
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The Voyage Irish Pub & Restaurant
7.1 km
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The Tinker's Son
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Daddy's Beach Club
14.3 km
Enjoy lively beachside dining and live music at Daddy's Beach Club in Hull, MA - a perfect spot for pizza lovers and music enthusiasts alike!
The Snug
14.8 km
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TKO Shea's Sports Cafe
15.7 km
Dive into the lively atmosphere of TKO Shea's Sports Cafe, where sports, great food, and community spirit meet in Rockland, Massachusetts.
The Range Bar & Grille
15.8 km
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Johnny Kono's Bar & Grill
18.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at Johnny Kono's Bar & Grill in Weymouth, a local favorite for food and drinks.
The Cottage Bar & Restaurant
19.2 km
Experience the heart of Ireland at The Cottage Bar & Restaurant in Weymouth, offering delicious food, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Union Brew House
19.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Union Brew House in Weymouth, MA, where delicious pizza and craft beers await every visitor.
McSwiggans Pub and Restaurant
19.6 km
Experience the charm of McSwiggans Pub and Restaurant in Weymouth, where great food, drinks, and atmosphere await you.
