Acquired by the State of Massachusetts in 1991, Ellisville Harbor is one of the most scenic spots on the South Shore coastline. It features small fishing boats, a barrier beach, salt marsh, sphagnum bog, forested upland, and open meadow.

Recreation activites are focused on passive pursuits such as walking, bird watching, beach combing, and sightseeing. In fall and winter, harbor seals can often be seen just off-shore.

Between 2,500 and 5,000 years ago, prehistoric Native Americans hunted, fished, harvested shellfish and made tools here. The park was part of the 17th-century farmstead owned by the Harlow family.