Birding Trips
Pack your own picnic lunch and enjoy a boat ride along the serene Elizabeth Islands. Immerse yourself in this beautiful uninhabited wildlife sanctuary at the mouth of Buzzards Bay and discover the unique history of Penikese Island.
Questions? Email info@penikese.org
Details:
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These birding trips are operated in collaboration with BiodiversityWorks and Manomet, who will provide an expert guide on each trip.
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The boat ride from Woods Hole to Penikese Island takes about 1 hour.
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Bring your own binoculars!
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Bring your own lunch, snacks, and water.
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Dress appropriately for the weather. Comfortable walking shoes for lumpy, uneven terrain are a must. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is recommended in warm weather. There are very few trees and thus little shade on Penikese. Bring a layer as it is often cooler offshore than on the mainland.
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Parking and meeting point will be at the Penikese Shore Office, located at 565 Woods Hole Road, Woods Hole, MA 02543.
*The trip on 6/21/25 will depart from Woods Hole and then go to Lake Tashmoo (on Martha's Vineyard) to pick up MV participants and our guide, Rich Couse. If you are an MV resident, we can pick you up and drop you off in Tashmoo (instead of Woods Hole)!
Physical Expectations:
Visiting Penikese Island is a rewarding outdoor experience, but it does come with a few physical requirements:
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Boat Access: Participants must be able to climb in and out of the boat – approximately the equivalent of climbing 2–3 steps.
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Terrain: The island features lumpy, uneven ground, rolling hills, and rustic dirt paths.
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Main House: Accessing the Main House requires walking up a set of 8 stairs.
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Facilities:
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We have hot and cold running water.
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Restrooms are simple composting Clivus Multrum toilets.
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If you have any questions about accessibility or physical requirements, please feel free to reach out at info@penikese.org
These trips are designed for enthusiastic birders of all skill levels – amateur and seasoned birders are welcome! Individuals interested in a broader natural history tour of Penikese Island should attend a Natural History Trip.
These trips accommodate up to 12 participants on a first-come-first-served basis. Please note that a minimum of 8 registrants is required for the trip to proceed.
Photo Credit: Camilla Bowin