Seafood Night
Classic Mattapoisett move
If you want the harbor-town answer, start with local seafood, sushi, or a fish-market stop for a cook-at-home dinner.
Welcome to Mattapoisett
A charming coastal town on Buzzards Bay with a rich shipbuilding history, beautiful beaches, and a tight-knit community. Whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through, there's always something to discover.
6,933
Population (2026 est.)
1857
Year Incorporated
26 mi
Coastline
~400
Ships Built Here
📖 History
The name "Mattapoisett" comes from the Wampanoag language, meaning "a place of resting." The town's story runs deep — from indigenous settlements to a world-class shipbuilding hub.
1750
First European settlement, originally part of Rochester. Early industries included logging, farming, and salt production from seawater.
1740–1870s
Mattapoisett becomes a major shipbuilding center, constructing an estimated 400 vessels — many for the whaling industry. The Acushnet, the whaling ship Herman Melville sailed on (inspiring Moby-Dick), was built right here.
1814
During the War of 1812, the British ship Nimrod attempted to burn Mattapoisett's shipyards. The local militia repelled them. Resident Benjamin Barstow contributed to building the USS Constitution ("Old Ironsides").
1857
Mattapoisett officially incorporates as its own town on May 20th, separating from Rochester.
1878
The Wanderer, the last whaling bark built in Mattapoisett, launches from the shipyards — marking the end of an era.
Late 1800s
With whaling in decline, Mattapoisett transforms into a summer resort destination, attracting prominent visitors from New York and Boston, including Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr.
🏛️ Town Government
Stay informed about what's happening in Mattapoisett town government. Data sourced directly from mattapoisett.gov.
🍽️ Dining
The full restaurant guide lives on its own page. Here on the homepage, think of this as the quick "where should we eat?" shortlist.
Breakfast & Coffee Run
Fast local favorite
For pastries, sandwiches, brunch, or caffeine before the beach, the village has enough good options that you do not need to settle for chain-food sadness.
Easy Family Picks
Pizza · diner · ice cream
Need something low-friction? Pizza, diner comfort food, and summer ice cream are all covered without leaving town.
🏖️ Beaches
The beach page has the complete rundown. The homepage version just helps you choose the right vibe fast.
Best for young kids
Calm water · easy stop
Stick close to the village if you want a simple family beach run with calm water and nearby amenities.
Best views
Lighthouse side
If the goal is scenery, picnic energy, and a classic Mattapoisett photo-op, head toward Ned's Point.
Best locals' pick
Quieter feel
For a more tucked-away outing, the smaller coves and harbor-side beaches usually feel less hectic than the obvious first stop.
🗺️ Things to Do
If you're planning a day here, Mattapoisett basically breaks into three lanes: waterfront wandering, trail time, and small-town culture.
Waterfront wandering
Harbor · lighthouse · village
Start near the harbor, walk the village, and save time to hang around Ned's Point when the light is good.
Fresh-air reset
Trails · bikes · shoreline
Between the rail trail and Nasketucket, it is easy to build a low-key outdoors day without needing a big production.
Local culture
Museum · events · community spots
For something more rooted in town history, the museum and recurring community events give the place actual personality instead of generic coastal wallpaper.
📅 Upcoming Events
What's happening in Mattapoisett — Spring & Summer 2026.
MAR
27
🎵 MAC Unplugged Concert
Mattapoisett Art Center. Donn Legge with Ed Ledwith — two one-hour shows at 7:00 PM and 8:30 PM. Live acoustic music in an intimate setting.
MAR
28
🐣 Lions Club Egg Hunt
Ned's Point Lighthouse, 11:00 AM. Annual egg hunt for kids of all ages — free and open to all!
APR
4
🥚 ORR Community Egg Hunt
Hosted by the ORR High School Early Childhood Education Program. First annual community event — fun for the whole family.
APR
11
🌉 Four Bridges
Mattapoisett Museum, 6:00–8:00 PM. Community gathering and cultural event at the historic museum on Church Street.
APR
17
Open Mic Night
Mattapoisett Museum, 6:00–8:30 PM. Live performances — all welcome.
APR
18
Lions Club Senior Dinner
Mattapoisett Congregational Church, 12:00 PM. Free turkey dinner for local seniors.
APR
22
📚 Library April Vacation: Creative Drama
Mattapoisett Free Public Library, 11:00 AM. "Big Kid Creative Drama" by Little Sparks Theater — free program for kids during April vacation week.
MAY
1
Wharf Cruise Night
Mattapoisett Wharf, 5:00–9:00 PM. Classic cars and waterfront views.
MAY
2
✍️ Modern Calligraphy for Beginners
Isabelle's Gift Shop, 4:00 PM. Learn the basics of modern calligraphy — materials provided. Great for all skill levels.
MAY
10
🏃 Mother's Day 5K
Starts at Mattapoisett Town Wharf, 8:30 AM. Scenic route past Ned's Point and along Buzzards Bay. Great family event — all ages welcome.
MAY
15
Open Mic Night + Cruise Night
Museum Open Mic 6:00–8:30 PM · Wharf Cruise Night 5:00–9:00 PM. Double-header evening!
MAY
31
🚲 Tour de Crème Bike Ride
9, 25, and 47-mile routes through the South Coast with free ice cream stops along the way. One of the region's most popular charity rides. What's not to love?
JUN–SEP
🚗
Summer Cruise Nights
Mattapoisett Wharf, 5:00–9:00 PM. June 5, 19 · July 3, 24 · Aug 7, 21.
JUN–AUG
🎤
Monthly Open Mic Nights
Mattapoisett Museum, 6:00–8:30 PM. June 19 · July 17 · Aug 21.
JUL
18–19
Harbor Days
Lions Club annual fundraiser — ~100 vendors, live entertainment, food, strawberry shortcake, silent auction, and raffle. The biggest event of the summer.
🏠 Real Estate
Homes currently on the market in Mattapoisett. Data sourced from major listing sites.
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🎓 Schools
Mattapoisett is part of the Old Rochester Regional School District, serving Marion, Mattapoisett, and Rochester. For most Mattapoisett families, the path is Center School → Old Hammondtown → ORR Junior High → ORR High School.
🧭 Parent Quick Start
- District-wide info: Start with oldrochester.org for enrollment, district notices, and committee updates.
- Daily family check-ins: Use PowerSchool for grades and attendance.
- Sports schedules: ORR middle/high-school athletics live at Bulldogs Athletics.
- School-specific dates: Each school calendar below is the fastest way to catch concerts, early releases, vacations, and parent nights.
Center School
Pre-K – Grade 3
Mattapoisett's primary school for the youngest learners.
Address: 17 Barstow St, Mattapoisett, MA
Website →Old Hammondtown School
Grades 4 – 6
Upper elementary school serving Mattapoisett students.
Address: 20 Shaw St, Mattapoisett, MA
Website →ORR Junior High School
Grades 7 – 8
Regional junior high serving Marion, Mattapoisett, and Rochester.
Address: 133 Marion Rd, Mattapoisett, MA
Website →Old Rochester Regional High School
Grades 9 – 12
Home of the Bulldogs. Strong academics and athletics program.
Address: 135 Marion Rd, Mattapoisett, MA
Website →Rochester Memorial School
Pre-K – Grade 6 · Rochester
Elementary school serving Rochester students in the ORR district.
Address: 16 Pine St, Rochester, MA
Website →Sippican Elementary School
Pre-K – Grade 6 · Marion
Elementary school serving Marion students in the ORR district.
Address: 16 Spring St, Marion, MA
Website →Quick Links
📢 School Calendars
Tip: if you have kids in multiple buildings, check the school calendar first, then the athletics site for game-time changes.
Center
Center School Calendar
ORRHS
High School Calendar
Athletics
ORR Bulldogs schedules at oldrochesterbulldogsathletics.com
🌤️ Weather & Tides
Current conditions and tide predictions for Mattapoisett Harbor on Buzzards Bay.
🚨 Live Police Scanner
Real-time police and emergency radio traffic from the Mattapoisett, Acushnet, and Fairhaven area.
Open the live feed directly
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🏛️ Town Info
Useful links and resources for residents.
Town Hall
Government · Services
Select Board, Town Clerk, Assessors, and all municipal departments. Check meeting schedules and agendas.
mattapoisett.gov →Transfer Station
Trash · Recycling · Yard Waste
Open to residents with a valid sticker. Accepts trash, recycling, branches, and yard waste. Check the town site for current hours.
Mattapoisett Free Public Library
Library · Programs · WiFi
Books, digital resources, programs for all ages, and free WiFi. A community hub since 1871.
Website →Buzzards Bay Coalition
Environment · Water Quality
Tracks the health of Mattapoisett's coastal waterways through volunteer water sampling. Get involved in protecting the bay.
Learn More →America 250 Celebration
Community · Volunteer · 2026
Mattapoisett is participating in the national semiquincentennial — the 250th anniversary of America's founding. Events planned throughout 2026. Volunteers welcome!
Learn More →The Wanderer Newspaper
Local News · Community
The local newspaper covering Mattapoisett, Marion, and Rochester. Your best source for tri-town news.
Read →Council on Aging
Seniors · Programs · Services
Exercise classes, social events, and support services for Mattapoisett's senior residents. Located in the Center School complex.
Info →Mattapoisett Lions Club
Community · Service · Events
Hosts Harbor Days, the annual Egg Hunt, Senior Dinners, and more. One of the town's most active volunteer organizations.
Mattapoisett Land Trust
Conservation · Trails · Nature
Protects over 500 acres of open space in Mattapoisett, with maintained trails open to the public year-round.
Explore →📰 Town News
Latest updates from around Mattapoisett — Spring 2026.
Town Meeting May Move to Saturday
The Select Board is seeking community input on moving the Annual Spring Town Meeting to a Saturday in May. This would require a bylaw amendment — take the survey on mattapoisett.gov.
New Mailbox Policy Issued
The Highway Department has released a new mailbox policy for town roads. Residents should check mattapoisett.gov for details on placement requirements and compliance.
Select Board Expanding to 5 Members
The May 2026 Annual Town Election will be the first with a five-member Select Board (previously three). The three candidates with the most votes will be elected with staggered terms to ensure continuity in future elections.
Water & Sewer Capital Plans Unveiled
The Water & Sewer Board outlined a multi-year infrastructure plan: $50K earmarked for well repairs and $40K for a new truck in FY2026, plus water main extensions along Mattapoisett Neck Road and Bandt Island Cove in FY2027. Sewer relining planned for Prospects and Pine Island in FY2028, and new mains through Main St, Beacon, and Marion Roads in FY2029. Filter replacements at the bypass treatment facility are happening now (March–April 2026). Full story →
ORR Drama Club Advances in State Competition
The Old Rochester Regional High School drama club has advanced in the annual Massachusetts high school theater competition. Go Bulldogs! 🎭
New Interactive Property Maps Online
The Assessor's Office has launched new maps on AxisGIS — interactive parcel maps that link directly to property record cards. Browse at mattapoisett.gov.
New Housing Bylaws Finalized
The Planning Board closed public hearings on Cottage Neighborhoods and Accessory Dwelling Unit bylaws. These new rules could bring more housing options to town.
Storm Debris Cleanup
Following recent storms, the Transfer Station is accepting branches and cuttings from residents free of charge (valid sticker required). The town will not collect debris from private property curbside.
America 250 — Volunteers Needed
Mattapoisett is planning events throughout 2026 for the national semiquincentennial celebrating America's 250th anniversary. Volunteers are needed — visit mattapoisett.gov to get involved.
📒 Business Directory
Browse all local businesses in Mattapoisett — shops, services, health & wellness, and more.
Full Business Directory 82 businesses in 16 categoriesAbout
mattapoisett.org is a community resource for residents and visitors of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts. We aim to be the most useful, up-to-date local guide for this beautiful South Coast town.
The live police scanner feed is provided as a public service. Automatic transcription is planned, but it still depends on Broadcastify API access.
Know something we're missing? Get in touch.
🍽️ Dining
From fresh seafood to cozy brunch spots, Mattapoisett punches above its weight for a small town.
Turk's Seafood
Seafood · Sushi · Fish Market
The go-to spot for fresh seafood and sushi. Also has a fish market if you'd rather cook at home.
Visit →Tastebuds
Brunch · Dinner · Full Bar
Cozy brunch haven known for creative dishes like Monte Cristo French Toast and Lobster Omelettes. Also open for dinner with a full bar.
Nick's Homemade Pizza
Italian · Pizza · Casual
Solid Italian-American fare and reliable pizza. A local staple.
Visit →Shipyard Galley
Deli · Bakery · Coffee
Handmade bread, sandwiches, and coffee. Perfect for a quick grab before hitting the beach.
Visit →Pandolfi's Diner
Diner · Breakfast · Lunch
Classic diner with a loyal following. Breakfast and lunch done right — hearty portions of American comfort food at fair prices.
The Inn on Shipyard Park
Fine Dining · Waterfront · Bar
Upscale dining with waterfront views and a full bar. Sunday brunch, Smash Burger Night on Thursdays, and live entertainment.
Lebanese Kitchen
Middle Eastern · Casual
Authentic Middle Eastern flavors on Fairhaven Road — kebabs, hummus, tabouli, and more.
Uncle Jon's Coffees
Coffee · Breakfast · Lunch
Cozy café at 88 North Street serving breakfast, lunch, and creative coffee drinks.
143 Market
Market · Prepared Food · Specialty
Specialty market with prepared foods, grab-and-go options, and curated local goods.
Oxford Creamery
Ice Cream · Dessert
Can't visit Mattapoisett in summer without a stop here. Classic ice cream stand.
Turk's Test Kitchen
Catering · Culinary Lab
The former Rustico space on Route 6, now Turk's Seafood's dedicated catering and menu development kitchen (not open as a restaurant).
🏖️ Beaches
Mattapoisett has some of the best beaches on the South Coast. Summer parking passes are required at most town beaches.
Mattapoisett Town Beach
Family · Calm Water · Lifeguards
Right in the village center. Small, sandy, calm water — perfect for families with young kids. Seasonal lifeguards, restrooms, and a nearby playground.
Ned's Point Beach
Swimming · Boating · Picnic Area
Near the lighthouse, with great views of Buzzards Bay. Restrooms and picnic area available. Popular for both swimming and boating.
Hiller's Cove Beach
Secluded · Warm Water · Locals' Pick
Also called Aucoot Beach. A secluded favorite among residents for its warm, calm waters. Less crowded than Town Beach.
Shining Tides Beach
Paddling · Quahogging · Harbor Views
Great for paddling, quahogging, and crabbing. Beautiful views of Mattapoisett Harbor and access to Eel Pond's salt marsh.
🗺️ Things to Do
History, nature, and coastal charm — Mattapoisett has more going on than you might expect.
Ned's Point Lighthouse
Landmark · Photography · Views
Iconic lighthouse with breathtaking views of Buzzards Bay. The grounds are open for picnicking and photography. One of the most photographed spots in town.
Nasketucket Bay State Reservation
Hiking · Dog Walking · Nature
209 acres of wooded trails, open fields, and rocky shoreline. Great for hiking and dog walking any time of year.
Mattapoisett Museum
History · Shipbuilding · Events
Learn about the town's shipbuilding legacy. Hosts events and monthly Open Mic Nights throughout the year.
Visit →Mattapoisett Rail Trail
Biking · Walking · Jogging
Paved multi-use path through scenic woodlands and wetlands. Perfect for a morning jog or family bike ride.
Mattapoisett Harbor
Waterfront · Kayaking · Paddleboarding
Walk the waterfront, watch the boats, or rent a kayak. The Town Landing has a boat ramp, kayak launch, and picnic tables.
Shipyard Park & Salty the Seahorse
Park · Gazebo · Sculpture
Community waterfront green with a gazebo. Keep an eye out for Salty the Seahorse, the town's beloved whimsical sculpture.
🎓 Schools
Mattapoisett is part of the Old Rochester Regional School District, serving Marion, Mattapoisett, and Rochester. For most Mattapoisett families, the path is Center School → Old Hammondtown → ORR Junior High → ORR High School.
🧭 Parent Quick Start
- District-wide info: Start with oldrochester.org for enrollment, district notices, and committee updates.
- Daily family check-ins: Use PowerSchool for grades and attendance.
- Sports schedules: ORR middle/high-school athletics live at Bulldogs Athletics.
- School-specific dates: Each school calendar below is the fastest way to catch concerts, early releases, vacations, and parent nights.
Center School
Pre-K – Grade 3
Mattapoisett's primary school for the youngest learners.
Address: 17 Barstow St, Mattapoisett, MA
Website →Old Hammondtown School
Grades 4 – 6
Upper elementary school serving Mattapoisett students.
Address: 20 Shaw St, Mattapoisett, MA
Website →ORR Junior High School
Grades 7 – 8
Regional junior high serving Marion, Mattapoisett, and Rochester.
Address: 133 Marion Rd, Mattapoisett, MA
Website →Old Rochester Regional High School
Grades 9 – 12
Home of the Bulldogs. Strong academics and athletics program.
Address: 135 Marion Rd, Mattapoisett, MA
Website →Rochester Memorial School
Pre-K – Grade 6 · Rochester
Elementary school serving Rochester students in the ORR district.
Address: 16 Pine St, Rochester, MA
Website →Sippican Elementary School
Pre-K – Grade 6 · Marion
Elementary school serving Marion students in the ORR district.
Address: 16 Spring St, Marion, MA
Website →Quick Links
📢 School Calendars
Tip: if you have kids in multiple buildings, check the school calendar first, then the athletics site for game-time changes.
Center
Center School Calendar
ORRHS
High School Calendar
Athletics
ORR Bulldogs schedules at oldrochesterbulldogsathletics.com
🚨 Live Police Scanner
Real-time police and emergency radio traffic from the Mattapoisett, Acushnet, and Fairhaven area.
📻 Broadcast via Broadcastify — Frequency 482.8125 MHz