Save the Harbor / Save the Bay

Save the Harbor / Save the Bay is a civic and environmental organization focused on keeping Boston Harbor, Massachusetts Bay, public beaches and the Harbor Islands clean, accessible and open to everyone. Based at 212 Northern Ave #304, the organization connects environmental advocacy with public programs that bring people onto the water and to the shoreline.

The organization’s work covers water quality, beach access, coastal resilience and public use of waterfront spaces. It also provides information about beach accessibility, the Massachusetts Public Waterfront Act and opportunities to enjoy waterfront areas without charge. These efforts give the organization both a policy role and a practical community presence.

Public programming includes free harbor cruises, trips to the Boston Harbor Islands, fishing trips, dockside activities and beach events. The Better Beaches program brings community-organized activities to beaches from Nahant to Nantasket, while other events explore harbor ecology and the region’s marine environment. Seasonal programming can include music and community gatherings as well as opportunities to learn about coastal resources.

The atmosphere is community-minded, educational and outdoors-oriented rather than formal. Activities suit people interested in marine ecology, public waterfront access, beach recreation and local environmental issues. Families, community groups, young people and visitors looking for a structured way to experience the harbor can find different kinds of programming across the calendar. Youth programs and employment opportunities add an educational and civic dimension for younger participants.

Accessibility and inclusion are central to the organization’s stated approach. Programs are designed to reduce barriers related to race, language, income and ability, and beach accessibility resources help connect visitors with available support. The result is an organization that combines advocacy, environmental education and free or community-based experiences across the harbor, islands and public beaches.

Because activities take place in several locations, the Northern Avenue address functions as an organizational base rather than a single attraction with one fixed visitor experience. The calendar is the best way to identify current cruises, island trips, beach events and other public activities, while the organization’s resources provide practical information about beaches, access and waterfront use.