The Spit is a slice of mythical beach that crops out between the North River and Cape Cod Bay. One of my burning desires after moving to Scituate was to get to the Spit. Everyone talks about how great it is, how much fun, how they live for the summer to get to the Spit. I needed to see the SPIT! We walked a trail, thinking that would take us to the Spit. No, nice trail, but no. Every bar we freqented, I asked about how to get there. “By boat!” That was always the answer.
We got a boat. We were ready. Here, I should say, we are from Pennslyvania. Michael and I have boated before. My dad had boats. I should also note that we are both overly confident people. This comes in handy in a lot of situations, but boating and over confiedence not so much. This boat we got came from DJ in central Mass. “Happy Hours” is the name, and I think DJ almost shed a tear when he let go of his pride and joy that he meticulously cared for and serviced. (Right)
The first time out, we boldly navigated the brackish water of the North River. We find an island, beach the boat and get set up. While nibbling on our meats and cheeses from under our striped beach umbrella, we realize that this is not the Spit. Just some tidal, river island. Across the way, THAT was the Spit.
Surprise, the Spit is only visible at low tide! At the very least, we have found it! The world is our oyster. And it is everything as advertised and more. At low tide, it’s a gorgeous beach with patterns from the current beause it was so recently underwater. The mouth of the North River and the Bay come together and cause quite a show with rolling wave and strong current. The vibe is jovial with boats lined up, drinks flowing, and tidal pools to wade through. The Spit is worth the search, it’s pure New England summer.
Practical Spit Details
- The current is STRONG. I cannot stress this enough. You need 2 anchors and plenty of space to approach and beach your boat.
- If the tide is going out, you must push your boat out every 15-30 minutes. Otherwise you will be at the Spit until the next high tide.
- There are no amenities–this is wild space. No water, no snacks, no bathrooms. Come with everything you need.
- There is a walking trail to the Spit at the corner of Collier and Moareland Roads that leads to a boardwalk. There is no parking anywhere near this trail. Uber might be a good option here.
