16 Best Beaches in Massachusetts [2023]
Massachusetts has a diverse coastline, with a wide variety of beaches to choose from. Some popular options include the beaches of Cape Cod, such as Nantucket known for its picturesque dunes and clear waters.
Beaches on the South Shore, such as Cohasset and Scituate, offer a more traditional New England beach experience, with rocky cliffs and cool sea breezes. For a more secluded option, North Shore beaches, such as Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea, are quieter and less crowded.
There are also several public beaches, and Crane Beach in Ipswich, is known for its wide sandy beaches and dunes. Old Silver Beach: This beach is located in Falmouth, Massachusetts, and is known for its wide, sandy beach and calm waters. It’s a great place for families and offers a variety of amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.
Good Harbor Beach: This beach is located in Gloucester, Massachusetts, and is known for its beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. Nantucket Beach Located in Hull, Massachusetts, this beach is known for its wide, sandy beach and calm waters. It offers a variety of amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.
Wingershik Beach This beach is located in Gloucester, Massachusetts, and is known for its clear waters, fine white sand, and a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Overall, Massachusetts is home to many beautiful beaches, each offering a unique experience and something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot or a more popular destination, be sure to take a look at our list of the best beaches in Massachusetts.
1. Crane Beach
Photo by Elaine Brewer on Unsplash
Crane Beach is a popular beach located in Ipswich, Massachusetts, on the Atlantic Coast. It is known for its wide expanses of white sand and clear blue water, as well as its dunes and scenic views.
The beach is also home to the Crane Wildlife Refuge, which is home to a variety of bird species including the endangered Piping Plover. Amenities include lifeguards, restrooms, and food concessions.
Crane Beach also has a parking fee for non-residents. It is also a popular spot for bird watching and wildlife viewing, as the Crane Wildlife Refuge is home to a variety of bird species.
including the endangered piping plover, as well as other wildlife. The beach is also a popular spot for fishing and windsurfing. Crane Beach is also home to Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, a historic mansion and estate that offers tours, and programs and offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking and biking.
The estate also includes a variety of gardens, including a formal garden, a rose garden, and a wildflower meadow. The beach is managed by the Trustees of the Reservation, a non-profit organization based in Massachusetts.
Works to protect and preserve natural and historic resources in the Non-residents are required to pay a parking fee to access the beach, however, members of the Trustees of the Reservation can access the beach free of charge with their membership card.
Crane Beach is located about 30 miles north of Boston and is accessible by car, bike, and public transportation. The beach is open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day and on weekends only from September to October.
2. Chatham Lighthouse Beach
Photo by Mier Chen on Unsplash
Chatham Lighthouse Beach is a spectacular beach located in Chatham, Massachusetts, on Cape Cod. It is known for its beautiful views, including the iconic Chatham Lighthouse, and is a popular place for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
The beach is also a prime spot for bird watching and seals watching. It’s open year-round, but it’s best to visit during the summer months when the weather is warm and the water warm enough to swim.
Chatham Lighthouse Beach is located on the Atlantic Ocean and is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on Cape Cod and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The beach is wide and sandy, and it offers great views of the Chatham Lighthouse, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country. The beach is surrounded by dunes and offers beach combing, looking for shells. And a great place to discover tide pools.
Swimming is a popular activity, and during the summer months, the beach is patrolled by lifeguards. Picnic tables and restrooms are also available.
The beach is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the water is warm enough to swim. Visitors should also be aware that there are parking restrictions and fees during the summer months.
3. Wingaersheek Beach
Photo by A n v e s h on Unsplash
Wingershack Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Cape Ann and is known for its wide expanse of white sand and clear water. The beach is located at the end of wingershack Road in the city of Gloucester and is open to the public from late May to mid-September.
The beach offers swimming, sunbathing, and beach games, as well as a playground for children. The beach also offers great opportunities for fishing and clamming, as well as bird watching, including many types of seabirds, including ospreys, terns, and herons, which are often seen in the area.
Visitors can also catch a glimpse of the horseshoe crabs and seals that are known to frequent the beach. Amenities at the beach include restrooms, outdoor showers, and food concessions, as well as parking with a capacity of over 600 cars. is included. Beachgoers can also rent umbrellas, beach chairs, and boogie boards.
Wingershik Beach is also a favorite spot for photographers. From September 16 through May 14, visitors are welcome to bring their dogs to the beach before 9:00 a.m. and after 5:00 p.m.
Wingershack Beach is a beautiful and popular destination for those visitors looking for a traditional New England beach experience, with fine sand, clear water, and plenty of amenities.
4. Marconi Beach
Photo by Memories on 35mm on Unsplash
Marconi Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Cape Cod and is known for its wide, sandy beach and strong surf. A beach is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and surf casting, and it is also a popular spot for beachcombing and bird watching.
The beach is located within the Cape Cod National Seashore and is a protected wilderness area that is part of the Massachusetts National Seashore. It stretches for 40 miles along the Atlantic coast.
The oceanfront is home to a variety of plant and animal life and is also a popular spot for hiking, biking, and fishing. Amenities and facilities at the beach include restrooms, showers, and a snack bar.
There is also a large parking lot, but it fills up quickly during the peak summer season. The beach does not have lifeguards, but there is a ranger station nearby, which assists with beach safety.
Marconi Beach is a great place for a day at the beach, with a wide range of activities and a rich history. Amazing place. It is a must-see for any traveler visiting Cape Cod.
5. Race Point Beach
Photo by Nakul on Unsplash
Race Point Beach is a beautiful beach located in Provincetown, Massachusetts. It is known for its wide expanse of white sand and clear blue water, making it a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing and beach activities.
The beach is also a popular spot for surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding, due to its strong Atlantic Ocean swell and winds. Race Point is also part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, which features miles of unspoiled beaches and dunes, as well as a variety of recreational activities and wildlife viewing opportunities.
In addition to its natural beauty and opportunities for recreation, Race Point Beach also offers a. Number facilities for visitors. There are several parking lots and restrooms near the beach, as well as picnic tables and grills for visitors to use.
There are also several companies that rent beach equipment, such as umbrellas, chairs, and boogie boards. The beach is also home to the Race Point Lighthouse, which was built in 1816 and is now operated as a museum.
Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the beach and surrounding area. Overall, Race Point Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy Cape Cod’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
With miles of white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and a variety of recreational and educational activities, it is the perfect place to spend a day or an entire vacation.
6. Madaket Beach
Photo by Bibi Pace on Unsplash
Madaket Beach is a popular beach located on the western shore of the island of Nantucket, Massachusetts. It is known for its beautiful sunsets, wide expanse of sand, and clear water.
The beach is also a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfcasting. Amenities include restrooms, showers, and lifeguards during the summer months. It is accessible by car, bike, or bus from downtown Nantucket.
The beach is located on the west side of the island and is accessible by car, bike, or bus. There is a parking lot at the beach, but it fills up quickly in the summer months, so it’s best to arrive early. There are also restrooms, showers, and lifeguards on duty during the summer months to ensure the safety of visitors.
Madaket Beach is also known for its beautiful sunsets, which can be enjoyed from the beach or from a nearby restaurant or bar. The beach is also located near many other popular attractions on the island, including Madkett Milly’s Fish Market, where you can buy fresh seafood, and Madkett Docks, where you can rent a boat or go fishing.
Can go on charter. Overall, Madket Beach is a great place to visit for anyone looking for beautiful beaches, clear water, and great swimming. It is also a great place to enjoy the sunset and take in the natural beauty of Nantucket Island.
7. Spectacle Island
Photo by A n v e s h on Unsplash
Spectacle Island is one of the Boston Harbor Islands, located in Boston, Massachusetts, United States. The island is accessible by ferry and offers visitors a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, swimming, picnicking, and bird watching.
The island also has a visitor center with exhibits on the island’s history and ecology, as well as an outdoor exhibit space. In more recent times, Spectacle Island was a dumping ground for waste and was closed to the public.
But later it was transformed into a beautiful island park with the help of the Boston Harbor Island Alliance and the National Park Service. The island also has a visitor center with exhibits on the island’s history and ecology, as well as an outdoor exhibit space.
Spectacle Island offers a variety of fun activities such as swimming, kayaking, and fishing. It’s also a great place to enjoy a beautiful view of Boston Harbor and the city skyline. Lifeguards are present at the beach during the summer.
8. Coast Guard Beach
Photo by Joe Cooke on Unsplash
Coast Guard Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Cape Cod and is considered one of the best swimming beaches in the area. It is known for its strong surf and good swimming and is a popular spot for surfers and bodyboarders.
The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals and a wide variety of birds, making it a great spot for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Coast Guard Beach is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, a protected area that stretches along the coast of Cape Cod and is managed by the National Park Service.
The oceanfront is home to a variety of natural and historical sites, including lighthouses, dunes, and marshes. The beach is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is warm and The water is the hottest.
Amenities at the beach include restrooms, showers, and lifeguards. The beach can be reached on foot, by shuttle bus or by bike. There are also picnic tables, grills, and concession stands for visitors to enjoy.
Coast Guard Beach is an ideal destination for family vacations, and photography and is perfect for those who love the beach and nature.
9. Singing Beach
Photo by A n v e s h on Unsplash
Singing Beach is a spectacular beach located in Massachusetts. It is known for its fine, white sand that makes a squeaky sound when walking on it, giving the beach its name. The beach offers a variety of activities including swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports.
It is also a popular place for beach-goers to enjoy beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is open to the public and requires a parking fee and beach fee. Singing Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Massachusetts and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
It is located in the city of Manchester-by-the-Sea, known for its picturesque New England charm and historic homes. The beach is easily accessible by car and a large parking lot is available for visitors. The beach is located on the Atlantic Ocean, and the water is usually quite cool.
It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months, but it can get pretty chilly even in the middle of summer. The beach is also a great spot for beachcombing, as the fine white sand is perfect for finding shells and other treasures.
The beach is also a popular spot for beach sports such as volleyball and frisbee and is great for walking and jogging. Also, a great place too. Restrooms and changing facilities are also available for visitors.
Singing Beach is a great place for anyone looking for a beautiful beach with a variety of activities and great views. Beach fees and parking fees are required during peak season. There are lifeguards in the swimming areas.
10. Head of the Meadow
Photo by Geilan Malet-Bates on Unsplash
Meadow’s Head is a beach located in Truro, Massachusetts, USA. It is known for its beautiful dunes and panoramic views of Cape Cod Bay. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, and is also a popular spot for surfcasting and windsurfing.
The beach is open to the public and has restrooms and showers available. It’s also a great place to take a walk on the beach and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Meadow Beach Head is a large, wide beach located at the mouth of the Palmate River. It is located in the northern part of Truro, Massachusetts, and is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore.
It is famous for its dunes, which are the largest on the Cape, and panoramic views of Cape Cod Bay. The beach is a great place to swim and sunbathe, with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the sun.
It is also popular with surf casters and windsurfers, who take advantage of the strong offshore winds that often blow in the area. Beachcombing is also a popular activity here, as the beach is known for its abundant shells and other sea-worn treasures.
There is a large parking lot and restrooms on the beach, as well as showers to rinse off after a day at the beach. There are showers for Picnic tables and grills are also available for visitor use.
Head of the Meadow is open from April 1 through October 31 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and can get quite crowded during the summer months. Parking space is also limited so it is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot. Lifeguards are also present here.
11. Old Silver Beach
Photo by Bob Morrison on Unsplash
Old Silver Beach is located on Cape Cod Bay, making it a great place for swimming and sunbathing. The water is generally calm and clear, making it perfect for families with young children. The beach also has a playground and a snack bar, as well as restrooms and showers.
Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months. The beach is also a popular spot for beach volleyball, and there are several courts available for use. Old Silver Beach is also a great place for bird-watching, as the beach is known to attract a wide variety of shorebirds and waterfowl.
The beach is also known for its wide, white sandy beach and crystal clear waters, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Cape Cod.
There is a large parking area for visitors, and a parking fee is usually required during the summer months. Please note that some facilities may be closed or have limited access due to the current COVID-19 situation. It’s always a good idea to check the official website or contact local authorities for the latest information.
12. Rock Harbor Beach
Photo by Rod Long on Unsplash
Rock Harbor Beach is located at the north end of Orleans and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. The beach is large, with wide expanses of soft white sand, and the water is generally calm, making it a great place for families.
Amenities at the beach include restrooms and showers, as well as picnic areas, ideal for those looking to spend the entire day at the beach. The beach is also home to the Rock Harbor Beach Club, which offers a variety of recreational activities, including tennis and volleyball.
provides. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months to ensure the safety of swimmers and beach-goers. Parking may be limited at Rock Harbor Beach during peak season, so arriving early is advised.
Alternatively, the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority operates a shuttle bus service from Orleans Center to the beach, a great option for those who prefer not to drive.
Rock Harbor Beach is a great place for a day at the beach, offering plenty of amenities and activities for visitors of all ages.
13. Cisco Beach
Photo by Fiona Clyde on Unsplash
Cisco Beach is a beautiful beach located on the island of Nantucket in Massachusetts. It is known for its strong surf and strong currents, making it a popular spot for experienced surfers and bodyboarders.
The beach also has a campground and is a popular spot for beach-goers during the summer months. Cisco Beach is a large, wide beach located on the south shore of Nantucket Island.
It is known for its strong surf and currents, making it a popular spot for experienced surfers and bodyboarders. The beach is also a
a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
It has a campground nearby and is a popular spot for beach-goers during the summer months. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds and seals. Cisco Beach is a great place for a family vacation, offering a variety of activities for all ages.
The beach is surrounded by beautiful dunes and a nearby campground offers the opportunity to explore the island’s natural beauty. Basic amenities include a restroom and parking lot, and lifeguards are at the beach during the summer for your safety.
14. Plum Island, Newburyport
Photo by Marina Maliutina on Unsplash
Plum Island is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers hiking, bird watching, fishing, and many recreational activities on the beach. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including endangered species such as the piping plover and rosette tern.
The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge on the north end of the island is a popular spot for bird watching, as it is home to a wide variety of migratory birds. The island also has several beaches, including North Beach and Sandy Point Beach, which are popular spots for swimming and sunbathing.
The Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC) is a research facility that was established in 1954. Its mission is to protect the agricultural and economic security of the country from the threat of animal diseases.
The center conducts research on exotic animal diseases and emerging infectious diseases and provides diagnostic support for the detection of such diseases in animals.
Due to the research taking place on the island, access to Plum Island is restricted to authorized personnel only. Plum Island is a barrier island located off the coast of Newburyport. Massachusetts.
It is approximately 11 miles long and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as several beaches and a wildlife refuge.
15. Lighthouse Beach
Photo by Julie on Unsplash
Lighthouse Beach is a spectacular beach located in Edgartown, Massachusetts, on the island of Martha’s Vineyard. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, Lighthouse Beach is also a popular spot for beachcombing and birdwatching.
The beach is home to a variety of shorebirds including plovers, sandpipers, and terns. Nearby Chappaquiddick Island is also a popular destination for bird watching, as it is home to a variety of migratory and resident bird species.
The beach is also a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to the steady winds coming in from the Atlantic. The beach is located near the city of Edgartown, which is a popular tourist destination. Edgartown is known for its historic homes and buildings, as well as its charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
Beach visitors can explore more of the island by taking a short drive to the nearby towns of Oak Bluffs, Vineyard Haven, and West Tisbury. Overall, Lighthouse Beach is a great place for those looking for a relaxing day at the beach. exploring, enjoying the scenery, bird watching, fishing, and boating. The beach is open to the public, but parking may be limited during the peak summer month.
16. Horseneck Beach Reservation
Photo by Erda Estremera on Unsplash
Horseneck Beach Reservation is a public beach in Westport, Massachusetts. It is situated on the Atlantic Ocean offers a variety of recreational activities such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and picnicking.
The beach is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day and there is a fee for parking and beach access. Amenities include restroom facilities, showers, and lifeguards on duty during the summer months.
Visitors can also camp at a nearby campground. Horseneck Beach State Reservation is a 635-acre oceanfront park that offers visitors a chance to enjoy the beauty of the Massachusetts coastline. The beach stretches for two miles and offers wide expanses of white sand, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
The surf is relatively calm, making it a popular spot for families with young children. The beach also has a playground, picnic areas, and a large grass field for throwing frisbees or footballs.
Concession stands are available to purchase food and drinks, and there are restrooms and showers on the beach to rinse off after your swim. Horseneck Beach State Reservation also includes a campground with sites for tents and RVs.
The campground is open from Memorial Day through Columbus Day and offers hot showers, a playground, and a dump station for RVs. Campers must have a valid camping permit and reservations are recommended.
Horseneck Beach State Reservation is a great place to spend a day or even an entire vacation, with plenty to keep visitors of all ages entertained. All activities and facilities are there.