10 Best Things to Do in Westport (MA)

Nestled on the western edge of Buzzards Bay, near the Massachusetts/Rhode Island border, Westport is the quintessential New England seaside town. Known for its dramatic coastline and pastoral inland scenery, Westport offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. From the windswept shores of Horseneck Beach to the historic charm of centuries-old farms, this town is a delightful destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Horseneck Beach State Reservation

Horseneck Beach State Reservation is an 800-acre public recreation area famous for its raw natural beauty. This coastal gem features two miles of sandy barrier beach bordered by dunes, marshland, and a sheltered estuarine habitat. Each summer, the beach attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors who come to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. Lifeguards are on duty from July 1 through Labor Day, ensuring a safe environment for all. The beach’s southwest-facing crescent is bathed by low, rolling waves and dotted with cobblestones, making water shoes a good idea for wading. For those looking to extend their stay, a campground at the eastern end of the beach offers 100 sites equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, providing a perfect setting for a summer getaway.

Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary

Located east of Horseneck Beach, Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary is an ecologically rich area that spans more than 600 acres. This sanctuary protects a diverse tapestry of habitats, including beaches, woodlands, ponds, marshes, and agricultural fields, all interconnected by seven miles of trails. As you explore, you’ll find numerous vantage points for observing the sanctuary’s wildlife, which includes over 300 bird species. A notable resident is the piping plover, which nests on the beach during the summer. The sanctuary also hosts wildlife-oriented programs at the historic Stone Barn, and on a sunny day, the butterfly garden is a must-visit.

Gooseberry Island

Gooseberry Island, connected to the mainland by a short causeway, sits at the southern tip of Horseneck Beach State Reservation. This solitary island, exposed to the elements, offers stunning views of Buzzards Bay and is perfect for a leisurely walk along its sandy paths. The island’s strategic location made it an ideal spot for a WWII observation tower, still standing today. The island’s west side is rugged and windswept, with waves crashing against the rocky shoreline, while the east side is more sheltered, featuring a sandy beach with gentler surf.

Osprey Sea & Surf Adventures

For those looking to explore Westport’s waterways, Osprey Sea & Surf Adventures offers a range of paddling experiences. Located on the navigable East Branch of the Westport River, this outfitter provides everything you need for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The convenient location eliminates the need for road transfers, allowing you to launch directly from the store. Throughout the summer, Osprey Sea & Surf Adventures organizes camps, tours, and lessons, teaching essential paddling techniques, vessel control, and safety.

Handy House

The Handy House, owned by the Westport Historical Society, is a fascinating showcase of architectural trends in southern Massachusetts from the 18th and early 19th centuries. Built in three stages between 1710 and 1825, the house features eight bays, each reflecting different construction phases. The interior is sparsely furnished, allowing visitors to appreciate the building’s original walls, plaster work, floors, hinges, and windows. The Handy House is typically open on Saturdays during the summer, offering a glimpse into the region’s colonial past.

Gray’s Grist Mill

Gray’s Grist Mill, located on the state line along Adamsville Road, is a picturesque site dating back to the 17th century. This water-powered grist mill, with its enormous 54-inch granite stones, has been grinding corn for over 360 years. The mill’s cornmeal is made from local Rhode Island Narragansett Flint Corn, matured in open-air corn cribs. Visitors can purchase special mixes for jonnycakes and pancakes, as well as Rhode Island maple syrup, local roasted coffee, and recipe books from the mill’s store.

Buzzards Bay Brewing

Buzzards Bay Brewing is a craft brewery set on a farm surrounded by pastoral fields and woods. Known for its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, including the farm’s own wheat, the brewery produces a range of popular brews. Two standout offerings are Flounder, an unfiltered Blond Ale, and Buzzards Bay IPA, which features a new crop of hops each year, resulting in unique aromas and flavors. The taproom offers a cozy atmosphere in the winter and ample outdoor space during the warmer months, making it a great place to enjoy a pint.

Portas Da Cidade

Westport’s significant Portuguese heritage is reflected in its cuisine, and Portas Da Cidade is a prime example. This restaurant offers a range of authentic Portuguese dishes, including various preparations of codfish (bacalhau), Mozambique-style shrimp, and the classic Bife á Portuguesa—a sirloin topped with egg in a rich sauce. The recipes have been passed down through generations, providing a taste of Portugal right in New England.

The Bayside Restaurant

Perched near Westport Point, The Bayside Restaurant offers stunning views of Buzzards Bay, the Elizabeth Islands, and Allens Pond Sanctuary. This family-owned establishment specializes in New England-style seafood, with fresh catches from the Atlantic. Popular dishes include lobster rolls, fried scallops, fried clams, and fish & chips. The restaurant is also known for its house-baked pies, featuring flavors like lemon, apple, blueberry, and meringue.

Westport Town Farm

Westport Town Farm, a 40-acre preserve managed by the Trustees of Reservation, has a rich history as the town’s poor farm and infirmary for over a century. The property features a farmhouse, barn, corn crib, and Colonial stone walls, all of which speak to its age. Visitors can explore the mile-long loop trail, which winds through hillside pastures, hay meadows, and paddocks framed by old stone walls, offering views of the tidal river and its salt marsh.

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