Scituate Harbor Marina

From Boston it takes about 45 minutes to get here. It’s about the same as getting to Gloucester, closer than the Cape, closer than Newport, waaaaaay better than the Aqua Net of Revere Beach or the grit of M Street Beach in Southie. (no offense… I’ve been known to be gritty from time to time, and I’m a HUGE fan of Kelly’s in Revere, so lay off and read on, bitches).
I have been a regular at the Scituate Harbor Marina for longer than I can remember, since many, many family members are Scituate residents. Scituate is a beachy, laid back, very welcoming town on the ocean. You slow down from the hustle and bustle (hate that term, but you get it) when you come here. You know when you get closer to the marina, as your car tells you it’s 5 – 10 degrees cooler from the sweltering heat of the city.
The marina has a large parking lot. I have never had a problem parking there. The marina itself is very clean, as the harbormasters do a fabulous job, and are friends of the community. I have many family members who have had boats at this marina for years and years… they have never had ANY problems here as far as safety, noise control, cleanliness.
From what I’ve learned…
1. There is a waiting list to get a slip for a boat here, so sign up before you’re ready.
2. Get your reservation asap to launch your boat in the early summer, as those slots fill up quick.
3. No need to bring anything, as there is a grocery store, a Dunkin Donuts, many stores to buy clothes/​bathing suits, a CVS, 2 banks, pet stores, bars, restaurants, a yoga shop, a liquor store, pizza shops all within walking distance.
4. The best time to check out the place is coming up in 2 weeks… the first weekend in August is Harborfest… there’s an amusement park set up in the parking lot, lots of vendors selling food/​crafts/​jewelry/​art etc, bands in the street, and fireworks at night.
5. Go down during low tide and head to the Spit… a quick boat ride to a sandbar full of parties. Dogs are allowed, and food and alcohol are a must–