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For a taste of old New England island magic without the development or crowds of Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, or Nantucket, visit bucolic Cuttyhunk Island, which is accessible only by boat or seaplane. Cuttyhunk, which is about 10 miles south of New Bedford, sits at the southwestern end of the Elizabeth Islands, an isolated 16 mile chain extending from Woods Hole and separating Vineyard Sound from Buzzards Bay. The rest of these lovely islands (Noamesset, Uncatena, Naushon, Nashawena, and Pasque) are privately owned and inaccessible to the public.
Cuttyhunk was first explored by Bartholomew Gosnold in 1602 and was settled in 1641. In the days of sail, Cuttyhunk served as home to the pilots who guided the whaling ships safely into New Bedford harbor. Today's year-round population is fewer than 100, living testament to the island's reputation for isolation. In summer, the population swells to several hundred. You'll see very few cars here — golf carts are the vehicle of choice for residents — but there's little need for one. At just 2.5 miles long and less than 1 mile wide, Cuttyhunk is easily navigable on foot.
Upon arrival at the dock, you will be surrounded by many boats both large and small. You need not bother to bring much pocket money, as there's little to buy except perhaps some fresh oysters and an ice-cream cone. Outdoor public restrooms are available. A short uphill walk brings you to the center of the island, where you'll be treated to majestic views of Vineyard Sound. Here you will find a small general store, a one-room schoolhouse, a church, a library, a seasonal café, and a B&B. An unpaved dirt road leads to the far end of the island, where you can find a pond among pastoral natural surroundings.
If you want to stay overnight, contact the Cuttyhunk Fishing Club B&B which rents rooms, apartments, and houses from mid-May to mid-October. Pete's Place Rentals has a small number of water-view properties available for weekly rentals from late May to mid-October.
The M/V Alert II ferry makes the one-hour trip from New Bedford's Fisherman's Wharf (Pier 3) to Cuttyhunk daily mid-June to mid-September.
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