Cuttyhunk is approximately 14 miles off the coast of New Bedford, MA. It is the last in the chain of the Elizabeth Islands that stretch westward from the elbow of the Cape. It is about 2 miles long by a mile wide with a good harbor and beautiful beaches. Only about a third of the island is settled, the rest is rolling hills of bayberry and grasses with deer paths for hiking and sparkling water as far as the eye can see. Deer and rabbits roam the island. Song and shore birds, ducks, geese and other waterfowl abound. Only about a quarter mile of roads are paved, golf carts and ATV's are popular with the islanders. Though virtually all of the land is privately owned, visitors are always welcome provided they treat the island with respect. The island is small and fragile and loved by those who live and visit here. Cuttyhunk has about 26 year round residents and many more summer visitors. There is a one room school house; a Methodist Church which also holds Roman Catholic and Episcopal services and Sunday School classes in the summer; a post office, a library, and a Historical Society Museum. The Cuttyhunk Yacht Club is primarily for the children on island with daily instruction throughout the summer. It is a joy to watch the colorful sails glide (and tumble) playfully in and out of the harbor. There is a small general store, several gift shops and very casual dining. There is a Town dock where the ferry Alert II, bringing passengers and freight comes daily during the summer.Town owned marina and moorings; privately owned moorings, a fish dock where lobster, fish, ice, shellfish, snacks and ice cream cones are sold and where sport-fishing boats may be chartered. Unlike other places along the New England coast which have become overcrowded, hectic and congested in the summer, Cuttyhunk is an oasis of relaxation and simple summer fun. Nightly bonfires, fishing, sailing, swimming and boating, long walks and reading a good book on the beach are activities of choice. Children are safe and carefree. Cuttyhunk is truly a wonderful and very special place for your next vacation. "If you can't relax here .... you can't relax!"