Things To Do
in Scituate
Scituate is a scenic coastal town on Massachusetts' South Shore, famed for its working harbor and historic lighthouse. The town preserves maritime charm with clapboard houses, tide-washed shores, and small boutiques along the harbor. Visitors come to enjoy beaches, seafood shacks, and scenic coastal walks that feel a world away from the city.
With a tight-knit community and waterfront views at every turn, Scituate delivers a quintessential New England coastal experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Scituate Lighthouse, one of the most iconic landmarks in the area. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the rocky shores, taking in the stunning ocean views and the fresh sea breeze. Stop by a local café for a delicious breakfast featuring fresh pastries and coffee.
After breakfast, head to the Scituate Historical Society to learn about the town's rich maritime history through engaging exhibits. Explore the quaint shops along Front Street, where you can find unique souvenirs and local crafts. For lunch, indulge in some fresh seafood at a charming waterfront restaurant with views of the harbor.
As the sun sets, take a stroll along the harbor and watch the boats come in for the day. Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor the flavors of the ocean while enjoying the ambiance of the coastal town. End your evening with a walk on the beach, listening to the gentle waves lapping against the shore.
Kick off your beach day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner known for its delicious omelets and pancakes. Head to Scituate's popular beaches, such as Egypt Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the soft sand. Rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the calm waters and get a glimpse of the beautiful coastline from a different perspective.
After some water activities, relax on the beach with a good book or take a leisurely swim in the ocean. For lunch, pack a picnic or visit a nearby beachside shack for a quick bite of fish tacos or clam chowder. Spend the rest of the afternoon playing beach volleyball or building sandcastles with your family.
As evening approaches, enjoy a beachfront bonfire with friends or family, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories. Dine at a seaside restaurant known for its fresh lobster rolls and stunning sunset views. Cap off the night with a stroll along the water, watching the stars twinkle above.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $40-80 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic coastline and lighthouse charm
- Strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere
- Excellent seafood and fresh local produce
- Accessible day trips to Boston and the South Shore
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Crowds peak in summer, especially on weekends
- Some services are seasonal or small-town in scale
- Parking can be challenging near popular beaches
Places to Visit in Scituate
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lighthouse perched at the harbor edge with sweeping coastal views and historic buildings.
Colorful boats, pilings, and calm water reflections ideal for sunrise photography.
Clifftop and shoreline vistas with dramatic sea spray and golden hour shots.
Food in Scituate
Scituate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh lobster meat on a buttered bun, often served with fries; best enjoyed at harborfront spots with a sea breeze.
Must-Try!
Creamy chowder loaded with whole clams and potatoes, a coastal staple at seafood shacks and restaurants.
Steamed mussels with garlic butter and herbs, a popular starter at seaside eateries.
Crispy battered clams served with tartar sauce and lemon; a classic regional favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, seafood, baked goods, and crafts in the town center.
Seasonal pop-up stalls around the harbor offering quick seafood bites and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be mindful of residential areas and posted quiet hours; respect private drives near beaches and homes.
Respect wildlife, avoid disturbing nesting birds, and carry out trash; follow posted tide and parking rules.
Safety
Tipping in Scituate
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, 15-20% is standard; leave tips for good service and consider rounding up for smaller establishments.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; many places also accept mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Peak beach season with warm temperatures, calm seas, and long days; parking near popular beaches can be challenging; arrive early for the best spots.
Milder weather and colorful foliage; quieter beaches and markets; seas can be choppier and breezier.
Cold, windy coastal conditions with occasional storms; most beach access is limited but harbor views remain striking.
Rising temperatures and blooming landscapes; variable weather—prepare for sun and sudden showers.
Scituate at Night
Hiking in Scituate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal ridges and water views with easy loop trails.
Wetland trails and boardwalks through marsh habitats with scenic water features.
Wooded trails, birdwatching opportunities, and peaceful natural scenery.
Airports
How to reach Scituate by plane.
Major gateway on the East Coast; about an hour's drive to Scituate, depending on traffic.
Providence, RI area airport; roughly an hour's drive with connections to many major cities.
Regional airport offering domestic flights; useful for travel to New England.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many long-time residents and visiting families enjoy the harbor and beaches.
A calm, safe town with active senior communities and accessible services.
Summer tourism brings a seasonal population from the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal towns like Scituate have vibrant boating communities with access to marinas and boat ramps.
Local anglers fish offshore and along the harbor; seasonal charters operate in peak seasons.
Nearby courses offer scenic layouts with coastal or wooded settings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Scituate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose salads, veggie burgers, roasted vegetables, and dairy-free options; ask for seafood-free stock or butter alternatives when cooking.