Massachusetts is home to more than 300 islands.
Yet, most people only know two of them—Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. And while the majority of these other islands are uninhabited or privately owned (explaining why many are unfamiliar with any of the others), each island offers a unique landscape and story.
Approximately 80 miles from Boston and just near Martha’s Vineyard is Massachusetts’ “Cow Island.”
Cow Island, Massachusetts
Nashawena Island is known as “Cow Island.” However, the Native American name actually translates to “middle island,” a reflection of its location among the over 15 sistering Elizabeth Islands. Nashawena Island is sandwiched between Cuttyhunk, Pasque Island, and Martha’s Vineyard.
Just under 3 miles long, it’s not large, but still marked as the second-largest Elizabeth Island.
The island’s reputation as Cow Island comes from a unique breed of cows that roam freely on this tranquil oasis. The island is home to a group of majestic Scottish Highland cattle.
Exploring Nashawena Island
Like many of the other Elizabeth Islands, Nashawena Island is privately owned by the Forbes family, This means that travelers cannot visit the island without an invitation.
However, due to its small size and proximity to Cuttyhunk Island and Martha’s Vineyard, local charters often enjoy the sight of the Nashawena Island Scottish Highland cattle at a distance.
The Nobnocket Inn on Martha’s Vineyard offers a rare opportunity to enjoy a charter with Island Girl Excursions that allows visitors to see (and sometimes swim with) the cattle.
The cows can be seen sunbathing on the sand or taking a dip by the shore. In addition to the cows, the island’s most recent recordings marked a population of 2 in the U.S. census.
