Northshore magazine showcases the best that the North Shore of Boston, MA has to offer.
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/1373686
NORTHSHOREMAG.COM 30 JUNE + JULY 2021 Two communities flank the spot where the Merrimack River empties into the Atlantic Ocean. To the north is Salisbury, a nostalgic, family-friendly beach town. To the south sits Plum Island, a breathtaking barrier beach that embodies the natural beauty of the North Shore. Together, they create a prime spot for sum- mer visitors who want an accessible day trip or weekend destination, but have no interest in joining the crowds thronging to Cape Cod. "The natural beauty of the area is something people appreciate, and there's plenty to do," says Katy O'Connor Ives, president of the Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce. "In this concentrated area, you've got all that." Salisbury first gained prominence as a beach resort town in the 1860s. The waterfront stretch boasted carousels and roller coasters, cottages PHOTOGRAPHS BY MARIE CHRISTIANE/SHUTTERSTOCK FAC E S + P L AC E S MUST-DO: E AT + D R I N K Seaglass Restaurant Adjacent to the Blue Ocean Music Hall, Seaglass features both creative and classic seafood, a huge fireplace, and gorgeous ocean views. 4 Oceanfront North, Salisbury, 978-462-5800, seaglassoceanside.com Annarosa's Bakery Choose from a range of crusty breads handcrafted with locally sourced grains or indulge in a croissant or cookie. The aroma alone will make a visit worth your while. 174 Elm St., Salisbury, 978-499- 8839, annarosas.com The Deck Restaurant Perched over the Merrimack River, The Deck is an ideal spot to enjoy picturesque views while you eat. 179 Bridge Rd., Salisbury, 978-499- 4422, thedecksalisbury.com Groundswell Surf Café Sip a smoothie made with fresh fruit, feast on a breakfast sandwich on a locally crafted bagel, or sign up for one of the beach yoga classes offered daily. 25 Broadway, Salisbury, 978-255- 1456, groundswellsurfcafe.com Bob Lobster Indulge in fried seafood standards like clams and calamari, or get creative and sample a wasabi lobster roll, lobster poutine, or shrimp tacos. 49 Plum Island Turnpike, Newbury, 978-465-7100, boblobster.com Plum Island Beachcoma Pizzas, sandwiches, cocktails, and lots of local character. 23 Plum Island Blvd., Newbury, 978-358- 8218, pibeachcoma.com Capri Seaside Italian Grille From chicken parm to brick- oven pizza, Capri serves up Italian flavors with warmth and elegance. 3 Central Ave., Salisbury, 978-462-7543, capriseaside.com Plum Island Grille Sip a cocktail, nibble some shrimp tempura or baked haddock, and soak in the beautiful sunset views from the outdoor deck. 2 Plum Island Blvd., Newbury, 978-463-2290, plumislandgrille.com and hotels, and concert venues where names like Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra performed. The town's fame as a summer destination began to fade in the 1960s, but echoes of it remain in the charming Salisbury of today. Everyone asked about Salisbury almost immediately mentions Joe's Playland, an old- fashioned arcade that has been around since the town's heyday. Featuring both classic and modern games, it appeals as much today as it always has. "It's a generational thing—you went there with your grandparents and now you take your kids," says Rachel Abdulla-Sayer, a lifelong Salisbury resident whose family owns Joe's Playland. "It has a lot of nostalgia for people." The beach also stands out, even in a region known for sand and swimming. Salisbury Beach runs along nearly the entire eastern Salisbury Beach State Reservation offers a wide stretch of sand and ample parking.