Best Picnic Hikes on the South Shore

Best Picnic Hikes on the South Shore

When the good weather returns to New England and the South Shore, we immediately want to be outside as much as possible. Let’s savor every moment of the extra daylight, sun on our faces, and spring in our step.

We never leave home without a snack in our pack, but sometimes it’s even more fun to bring along a picnic. Bonus: you get to sit and enjoy the view that much longer. The South Shore has some really beautiful spots — let’s settle down and enjoy them.

Our Favorite Benches + Docks

  • Driftway (Scituate) — best sunset, dusk views. Perfect for a family picture. Two docks with seating.
  • Norris Reservation (Norwell) — views along the North River from a little hut, plus several benches scattered throughout the trail system.
  • John Little (Marshfield) — dock located along the river about 1.5 miles in. Lots of peace and quiet.
  • World’s End (Hingham) — beautiful views of the Boston skyline.
  • Willow Brook Farm (Pembroke) — viewpoint from a small tower with benches for seating.

Need a Picnic Table?

  • Miller Woods (Norwell) — smaller, very woodsy trail. Table is just off the entrance.
  • Turkey Hill (Hingham) — located right at the top of the hill. Peaceful views and plenty of space for kids to run. Dog friendly.
  • Norris Reservation (Norwell) — located just off the dam by the rushing stream. Dog friendly, with a longer walk option after eating.
  • Jacobs Pond (Norwell) — located on the island portion of the trail. Plenty of parking.
  • Luddam’s Ford Park (Hanover) — located along the Indian Head River. Approachable hikes, plus a boat ramp.

Pack a Blanket?

  • Couch Beach (Marshfield) — quiet spot along the North River.
  • Bay Farm (Duxbury) — after crossing the big fields, take your blanket down to the beach/rocky area by the water.
  • Rexhame (Marshfield) — enjoy either the ocean or the marsh. Lots of places to settle in.
  • Ellisville (Plymouth) — a little further south, but offers beautiful vistas from a short 1-mile walk.

South Shore Trails covers hiking and paddling destinations across 20+ towns on Massachusetts’ South Shore. Browse our full trail directory to find your next picnic spot.

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