After 300 years without human habitation or interference, Sipson Island is finally opening to the public. It's now possible to visit the island and take in all of its virtually untouched land, along with the wildlife who call the island their home. The island is located in Pleasant Bay, right off the coast of Cape Cod. Consisting of 24 acres, this island was purchased by English colonists, who bought it from the leader of the Monomoyicks Native American tribe.

Since the land's purchase in 1711, it has remained untouched and privately-owned, allowing no unauthorized visitors. Now, visiting is actually encouraged - as long as visitors follow the rules and use a shallow draft boat in order to get there.

What To See And Do

The decision to open the island began in December of 2019, when the community-led effort helped in conservation efforts to make a "living nature classroom," according to Travel + Leisure. The inspiration to open this island came from another nearby island - Chatham's Strong Island - which has been open for hiking since the 1970s.

Despite the relatively small size of this island, there are a respectable number of things to do there. Water-based activities such as snorkeling, swimming, sailing, and kayaking are all permitted and encouraged. From the water, visitors have a chance to cool off while exploring the island's natural wildlife including a number of birds and fish. Shallow water fishing is also permitted on the island, as well as picnics, which are encouraged to be taken on the island's natural dunes.

For those seeking a bit more of an interactive experience, hiking trails have also been created and are maintained by the Sipson Island Trust volunteers. Visitors can also take part in learning about the island's history, as well as the history of the Native Americans who once lived there.

Related: 24 Pics Of Must-See Attractions That Mother Nature Has Taken Back

What Visitors Can't Do

Since the island is still being conserved and is in the process of being nurtured by volunteers, there are some things that visitors aren't permitted to do there. Along various trails, hikers might see house-like structures that are in the process of being dismantled through a process called "undevelopment."

Since the island only has one jetty, the Sipson Island Trust is also requesting that visitors refrain from creating traffic or overcrowding the harbor with boat tie-ups. Getting to the island with a boat early is the best bet at securing a spot without tying up the only permanent jetty.

Additionally, there are beach rules to follow on the island. Visitors are not permitted to start any fires - bonfires or otherwise - along the beach's shores. Pets are also not permitted, as the island has a uniquely untouched ecosystem as well as its own wildlife that shouldn't be disturbed. Activities such as hunting and camping are not allowed, and visitors are only permitted for day trips - as camping can intrude on the island's natural habitat and hunting can drastically interfere with the island's ecosystem.

The Sipson Island Trust President said of the island that it's like "unlocking a secret garden," with so much to do, explore, and discover. Those lucky enough to see the island will be privy to what life is like undisturbed, with a wide array of marine, bird, and plant life to observe. While the Sipson Island Trust holds most of the island's acreage, deals are in the works to own the remaining few acres that are currently privately-owned and off-limits. '

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