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There’s something about the first bike ride of the season—the one where you pull your bike out of the garage, pump up the tires, and remember how good it feels to just get outside again. Today was that day for me, and there’s no better place to start than along the bike path.
One of the things I love most about living in Mattapoisett is how easy it is to access the bike path. I can ride straight from home, but if you’re driving in, it’s worth planning ahead. The Depot Street lot is convenient (and free), but it fills up quickly, especially on those first beautiful spring days.
If you’re looking to turn a simple ride into a full coastal experience, I’d suggest starting your day a little earlier.
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Start Your Morning at Fort Phoenix State Reservation
Head to the end of Green Street in Fairhaven and begin your day at Fort Phoenix. Parking is free, and if you arrive early enough, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best sunrise views on the South Coast.
From here, you’re looking out over Buzzards Bay, with clear views of the Palmers Island Lighthouse and fishing boats making their way through the hurricane barrier. It’s quiet, peaceful, and the perfect way to ease into the day before hopping on your bike.
Seasonal restrooms are available, and there’s plenty of space to take a few minutes, breathe it in, and enjoy the view.
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Begin Your Ride: The Phoenix Rail Trail
From Fort Phoenix, head back up Green Street to connect with the Phoenix Rail Trail. This paved, relatively flat 4.5-mile trail winds through a mix of residential neighborhoods, farmland, shaded woodland, and what makes this ride so special are those unexpected glimpses of marsh and ocean along the way.
As you ride, there are a few spots worth noting if you feel like exploring. Near Sconticut Neck Road, you’ll find the Little Bay extension, a quieter detour that many people miss. A bit further along on Shaw Road, you’ll see access to Shaw Farm and trails leading into Nasketucket State Reservation. There are bike racks available if you want to lock up and explore on foot follow the path to open fields, marked trails, and shoreline access make it worth coming back for another day.
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Crossing Into Mattapoisett
As you continue, the trail transitions into the Mattapoisett Rail Trail—and this is where it really becomes something special.
You’ll ride across an elevated boardwalk with sweeping views of the marsh and inner harbor. It’s one of those stretches where you naturally slow down, take it in, and maybe even stop for a photo. Truly one of the most beautiful sections of rail trail in New England.
The trail carries you past Reservation Golf Club, Shining Tides/YMCA, and Goodspeed Island before ending at Depot Street.
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Into the Village & Harbor
From Depot Street, take a right onto Main Street and follow the road along the water toward the wharf and Shipyard Park for the perfect place to take a break.
During the summer months, the Seaport Ice Cream Slip is a favorite stop for coffee, a quick bite, or (of course) ice cream. Seasonal restrooms are also available at the Harbormaster building.
Take your time here. Sit by the water, watch the boats, and enjoy the rhythm of the harbor.
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Continue to Ned’s Point
Continue along Water Street, passing the town beach as you make your way toward Ned’s Point Road. Follow the road to the end where you’ll find one of the most iconic spots in town, Ned’s Point Lighthouse.
This is a favorite for many, especially on warm summer days when the ocean breeze offers a welcome break. It’s the perfect place to pause for a picnic, take in the views, and simply relax. Known for its beautiful sunrises and sunsets, it’s one of those places that keeps people coming back.
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A Slow Ride Back Through Town
On your way back toward Depot Street, take a little extra time to ride through the village and appreciate the historic homes and quiet coastal streets.
You’ll pass the Inn at Shipyard Park, a lovely spot to stop for lunch or sit on the porch and take in the harbor views.
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One Last Stop in Fairhaven
Before finishing your ride back at Fort Phoenix, make one final stop at the Ice Cream Cottage, a well-earned treat after a full day on the bike. The Ice Cream Cottage re-opens on May 7th this year.
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End Where You Began
Back at Fort Phoenix State Reservation, you can take a little more time to explore. Walk along the hurricane barrier, sit by the beach, or simply wind down and reflect on the day.
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A Day That Feels Like More
It’s days like this that remind you why people quietly fall in love with the South Coast. What starts as a simple bike ride turns into something more, a day of coastal views, small discoveries, and a sense of place that’s hard to describe until you experience it yourself.
And for many, it’s exactly these kinds of days that lead to spending more time here… or eventually calling it home.
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“I’ve been putting together a collection of my favorite South Coast days—bike rides, beaches, hidden spots, and local favorites. If you’d like the full guide when it’s ready, you can grab it here.”
Cecile Callahan, Broker Associate, Realtor
Licensed in MA & RI
508-742-7316 cell
Bold Real Estate Inc.
45 Main Street
Mattapoisett, MA 02739