dog friendly coastal park – The Adventures of Shadow and Wilma

Today Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to Halibut Point State Park in Rockport, Massachusetts. Halibut Point State Park parallels Halibut Point Reservation. Halibut Point is a granite quarry that was quarried as early as 1840. The Park is also located on the ocean. It includes: trails, scenic views, and areas for picnicking. There is also a visitor center and lighthouse appearing tower on the grounds. Halibut Point State Park is managed jointly by the Trustees of Reservations and The Department of Conservation and Recreation.

We had a steamy Adventure to Halibut Point State Park. We have been to Halibut Point State Park on numerous occasions, but were still excited to return. Since I had not blogged about it in about a year and a half I thought I would share some new photographs, and old photographs from this special location. We arrived at the Park, and followed the scenic little trail to the quarry. The Lighthouse appearing Tower was finished with construction, and had a lovely modern look. As per our usual we snapped some photographs and enjoyed this peaceful locale.

We then headed around the quarry, stopping at various openings to capture the diverse perspectives. The rocks at the quarry are quite magnificent, and the views are just beautiful. We noticed birds enjoying the water, and viewed the Tower from afar. I dreamed about a jump and swim as the heat of the day was quite intense. However we carried on and headed toward the ocean shore. The small path to the rocks was quite pleasing, and distinctive. You can see the ocean in the distance, always adding great anticipation. There were not as many flowers as I have discovered on past visits, however this did not dampen the coastal beauty.

Upon arrival I was surprised at how crowded the rocky shore was, however thankful that generally people were scattered, providing for the necessary social distancing. My Mom found a quiet spot to sit and Wilma and I headed off to for a little rock-jumping walk. There were rocks of all shapes and sizes, requiring careful balance and placement. We hopped to the water’s edge, and appreciated the waves, colors of blue, several boats, and textured seaweed. Wilma appeared tempted to enter the water but seemed quite uneasy with the splashing waves. I was disappointed as it was quite a warm day. However soon my entertainment began as Wilma dived into the tidal pool and began flinging herself into the seaweed – it was absolutely hysterical. As you will know if you follow by blog, Wilma does not like the water, so this scene was quite spectacular for her water-loving Mother to watch. She dipped her face in the water, and rolled on the seaweed. Wilma had so much fun, it was perfect! I was especially glad that this enabled a cool-down on a hot summer day. And I can promise you Wilma is quite the adorable wet dog, a sight I have rarely seen.

After exploring closer to the shore we headed back to My Mom and relaxed for a little time before heading back. It was definitely too hot but we still had a wonderful time at Halibut Point State Park. Halibut Point State Park is definitely a local gem, and a Park we look forward to visiting again in the future (Rating: 4).

Today, July 9, 2020

August 26, 2019

November 4, 2018

October 2017

February 2016

September 2012

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Lynch Park in Beverly, Massachusetts. Lynch Park is a sixteen acre park that includes a rose garden, playground, and a small sandy beach. It provides views of the Atlantic Ocean and Woodbury Cove. There are fees to enter the park seasonally.

We had a windy Adventure to Lynch Park on a cloudy December day. Upon arrival we found that we were one of the few visitors. We headed to the beach, noting colorful kayaks framing the shore. This “beach” appeared more of a shoreline near the water then an actual “beach” for swimming, but I believe visitors may swim in-season. After exploring the beach we headed over to the amphitheater, imagining quite the summer concerts. However we soon noted the grass was full of goose poop, and quickly headed away from the area toward the paved driveway. We continued up the hill and circled around the end of the park. We found one spot to head over to the water, the surf quite rough, creating a dramatic scene. It appeared there was a small boat not too far from the shore, which seemed a bit harrowing. We continued up the hill and enjoyed the views over the ocean. There were benches lining the paved path, and trees scattered throughout the park. The path wound around and brought us to the playground. From there we headed over to what appeared to be the rose garden. I can just imagine how gorgeous this garden must be in-season, but we will not be returning as dogs are not allowed in the garden, when in bloom.

I was quite unimpressed with the Lynch Park as there was not much to see, or places to walk. The spectacular views were somewhat skewed by a hideous fence, although I am sure it was necessary for safety. The Park rules required dogs “on leash” but most of the dogs we saw were off leash. Even with these thoughts my goal is always to enjoy a walk and to appreciate little details, moments, and a the thrill of a new Adventure. My favorite parts of our Adventure were: the features of the rose garden and observing the rough sea, almost as if a storm was looming. I tried to focus on the little details, while Shadow and Wilma enjoyed their rolls and exploring. It appeared that Lynch Park is best as a relaxing summer afternoon in the grass. So glad we could Adventure to Lynch Park (Rating: 2 – although probably not fair to rate this park in the winter months).