Nantucket National Wildlife Refuge
Northeast Region
 
Nantucket, MA
c/o Great Meadows NWR
73 Weir Hill Road
Sudbury, MA 01776
(978) 443-4661
fw5rw_emnwr@fws.gov

Visitor Opportunities

Fishing

An ariel view of Nantucket National Wildlife Refuge. Credit: USFWS
An ariel view of Nantucket NWR. Credit: USFWS

The refuge is open to surf-fishing year round, daily, 24 hours. Anglers may be restricted from certain areas within the refuge due to the presence of protected migratory birds and seals.

Wildlife Observation and Photography

Nantucket NWR is a popular destination for birders and others who enjoy observing and photographing wildlife. Gray and harbor seals often haul-out along the beaches at Great Point. Great Point lighthouse adds an interesting element for the photography enthusiast. The Trustees of Reservations (TTOR) offers natural history tours during the warmer months. Call (508) 228-6799 for further information.

Interpretation

Through partnership with TTOR, interpretive programming and tours are offered during the summer season.

Hours

The refuge is open year-round, sunrise to sunset (10:00 PM to 5 AM -- fishing access only).

Entrance Fees

There is no charge for access to the refuge via foot and boat. A permit is required for those visitors wishing to access the refuge via over-sand vehicle. To purchase a permit, contact The Trustees of Reservations at (508) 228-6799.

Leave No Trace

Leave No Trace is a national educational program to inform visitors about reducing the damage caused by outdoor activities, particularly non-motorized recreation. Leave No Trace principles and practices are based on an abiding respect for the natural world and our fellow wildland visitors. We can act on behalf of the places and wildlife that inspire us by adopting the skills and ethics that enable us to Leave No Trace.

  1. Plan ahead and prepare.
  2. Travel on durable surfaces.
  3. Dispose of waste properly.
  4. Leave what you find.
  5. Respect wildlife.
  6. Be considerate of other visitors.

For more information on Leave No Trace, visit the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics Web site.

 
Last updated: August 9, 2011