Halibut Point State Park

A granite quarry at the northernmost point of Rockport, Halibut Point commands long views of the ocean up to Crane beach and the Isles of Shoals off the coast of New Hampshire. The grout pile (waste granite pieces) extends out to a point 60 feet above the ocean. The quarry itself is now filled with water, and the shrubs and trees clinging to the cliffs around it are quite interesting.

The visitors center in located in a renovated World War II fire tower which rises another 60 feet above the quarry and offers 360-degree views of the ocean and parts of Rockport. An adjacent property, Sea Rocks, is owned by the Town of Rockport and open for public use.

Features

Great seabird watching, long scenic views, interesting rock formations from the quarry.

Homepage

Halibut State Park - Mass DEM's home page for Halibut

Location Map

Trail Map - GIF of the trails and interest points

Directions

From the south and west:
Take Rte. I-95/128 north to Rte. 128 north toward Gloucester and Rockport. After crossing the Annisquam River bridge, go three quarters around the first rotary, following signs for Rt. 127 north (Annisquam and Pigeon Cove). After approximately 6 miles, turn left at the park sign and the Old Farm Inn onto Gott Ave.

From downtown Rockport:
Drive north on Rt. 127 approximately 3 miles, turning right onto Gott Ave.

Street Map

Hours & Admission

Memorial Day to Labor Day, 8AM to 8PM. Labor Day to Memorial, dawn to dusk. $2 parking fee.

Notes & Comments

The views from Halibut are spectacular. Sunrise occurs over the open ocean and the sun sets across a small bay. Views of either from Grout Pile can be quite unbelievable. A very rocky coastline surrounds the area - seabirds and pounding waves are constant attractions among the rocks.

Nearby, Bear Neck, Rockport Harbor and Pigeon Cove are worthwhile stops.

"The quarry is interesting, but the rocky beach is even better." - Ron B.