Salem Harbor

Salem Harbor is the waterfront that shaped the city, once one of the busiest ports in the American colonies and the early United States. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Salem merchants sailed across the Atlantic and around the world, returning with ceramics, furniture, decorative arts, spices, dyes, tea and textiles. That trade helped shape the city’s architecture, culture and economy, and its legacy still shows in museums, historic sites and waterfront neighborhoods.

Today the harbor is a place for water views, boating and some of the city’s best spots to watch the sunset. Pickering Wharf is a lively waterfront area with shops, restaurants and marina views, while Derby Wharf and Salem Maritime National Historical Park tell the story of Salem’s global trade. Walkers can stroll along the waterfront and take in the views.

What to Know

• The harbor stretches both north and south of Salem.
• Harbor tours, sightseeing cruises and seasonal ferry service offer a view of the coastline from the water.
• Some parks and restaurants along the water offer harbor views.