Plum Island (Massachusetts)
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Plum Island, Massachusetts is an island located off the northeast coast of Massachusetts, north of Cape Ann at north latitude 42°47' by west longitude 70°50'. It is a barrier island approximately 11 miles (18 km) in length, the northern portion bordered by the Merrimack River (in which stands Badgers Rock), and the southern portion by the Parker River. The Atlantic Ocean lies to the east, a tidal estuary to the west.
Situated in Essex County, Plum Island is divided between four cities and towns: Newburyport, Newbury, Rowley and Ipswich. Developed areas of the island, with public beaches, businesses and private residences, lie wholly within the boundaries of Newburyport and Newbury, the latter containing the village of Plum Island. The island's pristine largest section is managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service as the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, while the Massachusetts Audubon Society operates the Joppa Flats Education Center & Wildlife Sanctuary.
Like most coastal communities, Plum Island has historically been a popular vacation destination. Several large hotels operated during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, there are numerous lodging options for tourists, including B&B's, inns, and rental cottages. In addition, there is a population of year-round residents.
Plum Island and its surrounding estuaries are a popular destination for birders. The Parker River basin is on a migratory route for many varieties of birds, as well as a nesting area for piping plovers. Much of the beach in the National Wildlife Refuge is closed to visitors during the nesting season, which can last most of the warm months.
