By the end of the 1700s shipping into the Merrimack River was increasing and fires were lit on Plum Island to aid boats. Beacons were erected in 1783 and the first two lighthouses in 1788. These were improved over the years and eventually automated in 1951.

Today, the lighthouse is owned by the friends of Plum Island light. It's occasionally open to the public.

ScottKane

June 22, 2021

Cycling

Small lighthouse and a nice little beach next to the mouth of the Merrimack river. Also, the only shellfish cleaning facility in the entire state is right next door.

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Best routes near Plum Island Lighthouse

5.0

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#1.

Plum Island & Sandy Point State Reservation loop from Newburyport

43.5km

02:51

60m

Cycle 27.0 miles (43.5 km) through coastal landscapes, salt marshes, and beaches on Plum Island, passing the Plum Island Lighthouse.

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Moderate

4.3

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#2.

Clipper City Rail Trail – Plum Island Lighthouse loop from Newburyport

22.1km

01:17

50m

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

5.0

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#3.

Hellcat Dike Observation Tower – Plum Island Lighthouse loop from Amelia Little Saltmarsh

19.2km

01:06

20m

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Details

Informations

Elevation -20 m

Weather

Today

Sunday 29 March

9°C

-3°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 22.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: Newburyport, Essex County, Massachusetts, United States

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Plum Island Lighthouse

#1.

Plum Island & Sandy Point State Reservation loop from Newburyport

#2.

Clipper City Rail Trail – Plum Island Lighthouse loop from Newburyport

#3.

Hellcat Dike Observation Tower – Plum Island Lighthouse loop from Amelia Little Saltmarsh

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