Time for a Little Island Livin'

Salty breezes. Breathtaking sunset. Bird’s-eye view of Boston. Lobster and corn on the cob.

Now that we’ve got your attention, let’s talk about how all of the above can be yours for a magical three hours or so some Thursday evening between tomorrow and September 15. Honestly, there’s not much to talk about, considering how easy the Boston Harbor Island Alliance has made it for you. Here’s the lowdown: You make a reservation, then show up to the Boston’s Best Cruises ferry at Long Wharf (Boston) by 6:15 p.m. By 6:30, you’re traveling the open seas—er, open harbor—for the short but scenic trip to Spectacle Island, one of the harbor’s most storied isles.

From there, it only gets better. The Summer Shack, the seafood restaurant(s) owned and made famous by Boston culinary legend Jasper White, will lay out a spacious clambake before you, the steamed lobsters dripping with drawn butter, the chorizo just the right amount of savory, the dessert a delectable chef’s choice secret. Plus there’s chowder, mussels, steamers, new potatoes and corn, and adult beverages for those who choose to indulge.

In between gorging, admire the sunset. Or hike Spectacle’s trails up to the 157-foot hill (highest spot on any of the islands), a spot that promises panoramic views of the surrounding harbor and our state’s fair capital city. Or stroll the beach. Or admire the marina. Really, the choices are endless, especially when you have steamers in hand.

When you’re sated, the ferry will return you to Long Wharf, somewhere between 8:30 and 9 p.m. At which point you can make plans to do it all again.

Visit the Boston Harbor Islands Web site to make your reservation, which includes all transportation, food and alcohol. Tickets are a tad indulgent at $75 each for full clambake. Lower priced options are available for clambake sans alcohol and vegetarian meals. (It’s also cheaper for the kiddles, too: $35/child ticket.)