A jewel hidden in Buzzards Bay. That’s the Elizabeth Islands. Specifically Elizabeth Islands. A chain of over twenty small islands. They stretch southwest from Cape Cod’s southern coast. Imagine Bartholomew Gosnold in 1602. He sighted these very islands on his voyage to Virginia. He and his crew built shelter here. They rested for three weeks before continuing their journey. A short-lived colony. It was 18 years before the Mayflower Pilgrims landed at Plymouth.
The Elizabeth Islands hold a rich history. Long before European arrival. Indigenous peoples like the Wampanoag used them. They hunted and fished these waters for centuries. Pocutohhunkunnoh. The original name. It means “Lands End”. A fitting name for these islands marking the edge of the land.
Much of the Elizabeth Islands are privately owned. The Forbes family owns the majority of the land. This includes Naushon the largest island. It’s 5.5 miles long. However some areas are open to the public. Tarpaulin Cove and Kettle Cove on Naushon. Weepecket Islands are also accessible. These are small and offer limited landing spots. But they are home to many shorebirds seals and other wildlife.
Cuttyhunk Island and Penikese Island are exceptions. They are not Forbes property. Cuttyhunk is home to most of Gosnold’s population. Penikese has a fascinating past. It was once a leper colony. Now it’s a bird sanctuary. It is also home to the Penikese Island School for troubled teens.
The waters surrounding the Elizabeth Islands are teeming with life. Striped bass and bluefish are abundant. These attract various bird species. Harbor seals gray seals and harp seals inhabit the islands. Deer even swim from the mainland to these islands. They sometimes even swim to Martha’s Vineyard for better food.
The Elizabeth Islands are a true testament to nature’s beauty. Their history blends indigenous heritage with colonial impact. Their present offers a mix of private retreat and public access. They are a true gem of Massachusetts. A place that’s both remote and captivating. A place for adventure exploration and reflection.