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How to Get to South Shore

How to Get to South Shore

South Shore New England, USA Travel Guide

Major Airports Serving the South Shore

Boston Logan International Airport BOS

This is the main gateway for travelers. It sits just north of the South Shore, in East Boston, approximately 20-45 miles from various South Shore towns. Travel time depends on traffic and your specific destination within the region.

Airlines & Routes

  • Nearly all major domestic airlines serve BOS, along with numerous international carriers.
  • Direct flights to major U.S. Cities and international hubs (London, Dublin, Paris, etc.).
  • Flights generally available year-round; prices peak summer and fall foliage. Book 2-3 months in advance.

T.F. Green Airport PVD

Located in Warwick, Rhode Island, this airport serves as an alternative. It is about 40-70 miles south of the South Shore. PVD can serve as an useful option for some domestic flights, especially for those heading to the southern parts of the South Shore.

Airlines & Routes

  • PVD mainly serves domestic budget and regional airlines (Southwest, American Eagle, etc.).
  • Rental cars offer the most practical option for onward travel from PVD.
  • The MBTA Commuter Rail also operates from PVD to South Station in Boston.

Airport Facilities BOS

BOS offers extensive dining, retail, lounges, duty-free shops, currency exchange, and car rental agencies. Free Wi-Fi is available.

Logan Express Bus

This service connects BOS to Braintree (South Shore Plaza), useful for the northern South Shore. From Braintree, taxis or ride-shares are needed.

Private Transfers

Pre-booked private shuttles or car services offer direct, comfortable transfers to your accommodation.

Transfer Options from Airports to South Shore

From BOS Boston Logan

  • Rental Car: Most convenient for exploring; access centers via free shuttle. Book in advance.
  • Taxi/Ride-share (Uber/Lyft): Readily available from BOS to all South Shore towns. Fares $50-$100+.
  • MBTA Silver Line (SL1) to South Station: Connects directly from BOS terminals to Boston, then Commuter Rail.
  • Consider AirHelp for flight compensation if you encounter delays or cancellations.

From PVD T.F. Green

  • Rental Car: Most practical for onward travel.
  • MBTA Commuter Rail: Operates from PVD to South Station in Boston, with connections to South Shore lines.
  • Plan your route using tools like Skyscanner or Dollar Flight Club.
  • Smaller regional airports (Plymouth Municipal, Marshfield Municipal) are for general aviation, not commercial passenger flights.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

MBTA Commuter Rail: Kingston/Plymouth Line and Greenbush Line connect South Station (Boston) to various South Shore towns. Fares are zoned and purchased via mTicket app, machines, or on board.

Bus Options

Long-distance buses (Peter Pan, Greyhound) connect to Boston. Local bus networks like GATRA serve towns within the South Shore.

Self-Driving

Offers most flexibility. Valid driver's license (International Driving Permit if not in English) needed. Minimum age 21 for rentals, surcharges under 25. Book rental cars with DiscoverCars.com.

Self-Driving Considerations

Road Conditions & Safety

Roads on the South Shore are generally well-maintained. Major highways, like Route 3, feature multiple lanes. Local roads, especially in coastal towns, can be winding and narrower.

Safety Notes

  • Road conditions are generally good. Winter driving conditions can be hazardous due to snow and ice; extra caution is advised.
  • Summer weekends see increased traffic, especially on routes leading to beaches and Cape Cod.
  • Always drive defensively and follow posted speed limits.

Traffic & Tolls

Anticipate congestion during peak times.

Traffic & Toll Details

  • Expect heavy traffic, especially on Route 3, during peak commuter hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM on weekdays).
  • Traffic also heavy on summer weekends for travel to/from Cape Cod. Plan during off-peak times.
  • Some highways and tunnels around Boston have electronic tolls, typically managed by EZ-Pass. Rental cars usually have transponders.

Sea/River Arrivals

While less common for main arrival, sea transportation offers scenic routes and connections for some areas of the South Shore.

Ferry Services

  • MBTA Commuter Boat operates year-round from Hingham and Hull to Boston.
  • Ferries to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket depart from Woods Hole and Hyannis (Cape Cod).
  • Standard U.S. Immigration procedures apply for international arrivals at cruise ports.

Departure Information

Prepare for your departure to ensure a smooth journey.

Departure Guidelines

  • No specific exit fees beyond what is included in your airline ticket price.
  • International flights (BOS): Arrive 3 hours before departure. Domestic flights (BOS/PVD): Arrive 2 hours before departure.
  • Commuter Rail/Bus: Arrive 15-30 minutes before departure.

Important Driving Laws

  • Drive on the right side of the road in Massachusetts.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Cell phone use while driving is restricted to hands-free devices only.
  • Speed limits are strictly enforced.
  • Parking: Ample parking is generally available, often free or metered. Coastal towns and popular attractions may have paid parking, especially in summer.
  • Always look for signs indicating parking restrictions or fees.

Departure Facilities

Boston Logan International Airport BOS

BOS offers extensive dining, shopping, and lounge amenities for departing travelers across its multiple terminals (A, B, C, E).

Amenities

  • Numerous dining options and retail stores.
  • Various lounges and duty-free shops.
  • Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.

Commuter Rail Stations

Commuter rail stations typically have more basic waiting areas.

Station Comforts

  • Some stations have small cafes or convenience stores.
  • Plan to arrive early for your flight to relax and enjoy the airport facilities.
  • Consider your travel style and preferences for a smooth departure.

MBTA Silver Line SL1

Connects directly from all BOS terminals to South Station in Boston.

Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available from BOS to all South Shore towns.

Private Shuttles

Pre-booked services offer direct, comfortable transfers to your accommodation.

Local Transportation Summary

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling offer enjoyable ways to experience the South Shore's charm and natural beauty up close.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Many town centers are pleasant for walking: Plymouth's waterfront, Hingham Square, Cohasset Village.
  • Coastal paths and boardwalks provide scenic walking (e.g., Brant Rock, Scituate Lighthouse).
  • Limited dedicated bike lanes, but many roads are suitable. Rail trails offer car-free cycling.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, some specialized transportation services cater to specific tourist needs or unique regional experiences.

Unique Services

  • Plymouth: Seasonal trolley service connects major attractions.
  • MBTA Commuter Boat: Main water transportation (Hingham/Hull to Boston).
  • Accessibility Services: ADA compliance for public transit, but individual station accessibility varies. Check in advance.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians and Cyclists

Major Highways

Avoid walking or cycling on Route 3.

Congested Roads

Avoid highly congested multi-lane roads, especially during peak traffic hours.

Safety Note

These roads are designed for vehicles moving at higher speeds and do not offer safe pedestrian or cycling infrastructure.

Travel Planning Note

For ferry to Boston services, the MBTA Commuter Boat is mainly for commuters, connecting Hingham and Hull to Boston. Some private charter services may also be available for tours, fishing trips, or special events along the coast.