Best Beaches in Massachusetts for Digital Nomads (or Long Term Travelers)

The state of Massachusetts is a popular tourist & digital nomad destination, known for its picturesque waterfronts and beaches.

From serene, secluded spots to bustling boardwalks, Massachusetts has something for every beach-goer. Whether you’re looking for an inspirational place to bed down and work for a while, or simply a relaxing weekend away from it all, you’ll find the perfect beach in the Bay State.

In this article, we’ll cover the best beaches in Massachusetts; looking at each destinations’ unique attributes and activities, so you can choose the perfect beach spot for your next adventure.

beach with small waves surrounded by mountains and green trees

D Theodora | Pixabay

21 Best Beaches in Massachusetts – TL;DR

  1. Chatham Lighthouse Beach, Cape Cod
  2. Crane Beach, Ipswich
  3. Mayflower Beach, Dennis
  4. Wingaersheek Beach, Gloucester
  5. Madaket Beach, Nantucket
  6. Lynn Shore & Nahant Beach Reservation, Nahant
  7. Herring Cove Beach, Provincetown
  8. Wellfleet Kettle Ponds, Wellfleet
  9. Marconi Beach, Wellfleet
  10. Head of the Meadow Beach, Truro
  11. Coast Guard Beach, Eastham
  12. Demarest Lloyd State Park, Dartmouth
  13. Singing Beach, Manchester-by-the-Sea
  14. Walden Pond, Concord
  15. Menemsha Beach, Chilmark, Martha’s Vineyard
  16. Old Silver Beach, Falmouth
  17. South Beach, Martha’s Vineyard
  18. Race Point Beach, Provincetown
  19. Kalmus Beach, Cape Cod
  20. Spectacle Island Beach, Boston
  21. Otis Reservoir, Otis

21 Best Beaches in Massachusetts – In Detail

1. Chatham Lighthouse Beach, Cape Cod

Chatham Lighthouse in the middle of a empty land with green grass

Bernd 📷 Dittrich | Unsplash

Chatham Lighthouse Beach, located in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is one of the best beaches in the state.

With its sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, tranquil shoreline, and soft sand, this beach offers unique opportunities for fun in the sun.

Just a short drive away from the nearby town of Chatham, the full beach area is roughly two miles long, with a good amount of space to explore. It’s adjacent to Chatham Lighthouse, making it a great spot to watch the sunset and take in the magnificent views.

The crystal-clear waters offer a nice opportunity for swimming and kayaking and the soft sand is ideal for sunbathing, beach games or relaxing with your laptop!

The area is also equipped with restrooms and showers, and there’s a concession stand on-site where you can purchase snacks and drinks, making it a great spot for a full day of activities.

2. Crane Beach, Ipswich

old wreck wooden baot at the sand near the Crane Beach, Ipswich

Elaine Brewer| Unsplash

Crane Beach in Ipswich, Massachusetts is one of the best beaches in the area for a number of fabulous reasons.

Located just forty miles North of Boston, it’s surrounded by 400 acres of pristine conservation land all accessible to the public.

This beach is known for its iconic panoramic views, unspoiled wildlife, and wide stretches of beautiful sand that border the blue-green waters of Massachusetts Bay.

The beach can be easily accessed using the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary boardwalk and very conveniently has restrooms and showers.

It also has a swimming area monitored by lifeguards, and kayak, fishing and jet-skiing rentals are available. Feel free to either relax on the beach and watch the picturesque sunset, or go for a refreshing dip in the ocean.

3. Mayflower Beach, Dennis

image of white sand with green small plants known as the Mayflower Beach, Dennis

Christine Johannessen | Unsplash

Mayflower Beach in Dennis, Massachusetts, is one of the best beaches on Cape Cod.

Located off Route 6A on Nantucket Sound, this spot offers plenty of room for families or digital nomads to spread out for a day at the shore.

The white sands and crystal blue waters means on any given day, you’ll find plenty of people relaxing in the sun, eating lunch, swimming in the surf, and just enjoying time outdoors.

The beach itself stretches over 600 feet in length, and so there is plenty of room to find your own perfect spot.

There’s also public access to a variety of water sports equipment, including kayaks, paddle boards, and surfboards, as well as life vests. This allows visitors of all ages to find something to enjoy during their trip to the beach.

Fancy yourself a bit of a fisherman (woman)? Mayflower Beach offers some of the finest fishing in the area. Over 300 fish species inhabit the waters here, making it a great spot for fisherpeople (see what I did there?) of all skill levels. Offshore, several piers and jetties are located along the beach, providing anglers with a great place to cast a line into the open ocean.

All in all, Mayflower Beach in Dennis, Massachusetts, is a fab experience. The white sands, crystal blue waters, and abundance of amenities make this beach an ideal spot to spend a day enjoying the sunshine and waves.

4. Wingaersheek Beach, Gloucester

pinkish sky over the beach Wingaersheek Beach, Gloucester

Gabrielm199, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Wingaersheek Beach in Gloucester, Massachusetts, ranks among the best beaches in the state.

This beach is a popular spot for families, friends, and couples who flock to the area to take advantage of the golden amber shore, mesmerizing blue waters and cool sea breeze. (Descriptive enough for you!)

The beach features a fully-stocked snack bar, a large lifeguard tower, and plenty of picnic tables and benches. (Great for digital nomads looking for somewhere to work with a lovely view).

If you’re looking to take part in some fun activities while at the beach, Wingaersheek beach offers opportunities for kayakers or paddle boarders to explore secluded inlets and hidden coves (look out for the native Harbor Seals, who call this beach home). Or, if you just want to relax and spend time basking in the sun or splashing in the waves, you’ll be golden.

No matter what you choose to do, this is a fab beach to do it on!

5. Madaket Beach, Nantucket

light house with pathway near the Madaket Beach, Nantucket

Rusty Watson | Unsplash

Madaket Beach on Nantucket Island is another one of the best beaches in Massachusetts.

This protected area of sparkling sand boasts a striking ocean view and a pleasant cool breeze, thanks to its location across the harbor from Madaket Harbor.

Madaket Beach features towering sand dunes, and the waters are sparkling and calm, making it a great spot for swimming, paddling, and even fishing.

The beach can be accessed via Madaket Road, just off West Tisbury Road. Make sure to slip off your shoes and feel the cool sand beneath your feet when you arrive! The shoreline is wide, providing plenty of space for everyone, and amenities like bathrooms, showers, lounge chairs, and umbrellas can be found onsite at the Madaket Beach concession stand.

If you want to unplug from the hustle and bustle of city life, spend a day lounging in the sun, go for a dip in the ocean, or take a scenic stroll along the shore, Madaket Beach is the place to do it!

This pristine beach is a tranquil escape from the rest of the world and a great spot to spend a relaxing afternoon.

6. Lynn Shore & Nahant Beach Reservation, Nahant

stone at the seashore in Lynn Shore & Nahant Beach Reservation, Nahant

Vernon Sullivan | Pixabay

Nahant is a small town located just eight miles north of the bustling city of Boston, but its two beaches, Lynn Shore and Nahant Beach Reservation, provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Lynn Shore and Nahant Beach Reservation offer up a mix of beautiful scenery, peaceful beaches, and a variety of activities to enjoy.

At Lynn Shore, you’ll find long stretches of white sand perfect for beach barbecues, sunbathing, or swimming. After you’ve indulged in a few hours of sun, take a hike through the winding trails of the nearby Lynn Woods Reservation. Outdoor showers and concession stands make this a top spot.

At Nahant Beach Reservation, you’ll find a mix of coves, lagoons, and sandbars dispersed over miles of coastline, making it the perfect spot for exploring. In the summer, a variety of beach-goers flock to this location for its sandy shoreline and scenic views. More inclined towards water sports? Nahant Beach Reservation has you covered, with kayak and snorkeling rentals available on site.

With its combination of stunning views, endless activities, and nearby amenities – Lynn Shore and Nahant Beach Reservation at Nahant definitely make the list of the best beaches in Massachusetts.

7. Herring Cove Beach, Provincetown

beach and sand at Herring Cove Beach, Provincetown

Andre Carrotflower, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Herring Cove Beach in Provincetown is widely considered to be one of the best beaches in Massachusetts. Located on the tip of Cape Cod, Herring Cove is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. This beautiful beach is easily accessible and is known for its great scenery and excellent swimming spots.

The main attractions of Herring Cove Beach are the crystal-clear waves, white sandy beaches, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The beach also offers plenty of other amenities such as volleyball nets, picnic tables, and miles of boardwalk for walking. In fact the boardwalk is perfect for afternoon strolls, and offers stunning views of the area, including the Province Lands, Race Point, and the dunes.

Herring Cove has gentle waves and is a great spot for windsurfing, swimming, and tubing. On some days, if you’re lucky, you’ll spot dolphins swimming in the ocean. Parking is available, and you can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, kayaks and paddle boards.

A visit to Herring Cove Beach is a fab experience. With its beautiful scenery, plentiful amenities, and excellent swimming spots, Herring Cove Beach is a great spot to soak up the sun and enjoy a day on the coast.

8. Wellfleet Kettle Ponds, Wellfleet

a man in red fishing at Wellfleet Kettle Ponds, Wellfleet

English: NPS staff, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons 

Wellfleet Kettle Ponds in Wellfleet is another of the best beaches in Massachusetts.

This quiet beach is made up of three sandy-bottomed ponds that are idyllically situated amongst large dunes. There is also a shallow freshwater lake, which makes this destination an ideal spot for small children, or small dogs scared of big waves (like ours).

Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the sun or a place to explore a unique environment, the Wellfleet Kettle Ponds are the place for you.

The ponds are connected via narrow channels sheltered by vegetation, so you can easily paddle your way around the area. There are only a few access points, so you won’t have to worry about crowds. This beach is also known for its excellent swimming, snorkeling, and fishing.

Though quite secluded, the Wellfleet Kettle Ponds are still easily accessible. The beach is located within 3 miles of the town center, and you can get there by car or boat. You can also join a guided kayak tour if you wish to explore the area. There are plenty of picnic tables (great for laptops) and concession stands available, making it the perfect place to spend the day.

No matter what you’re looking for, Wellfleet Kettle Ponds probably has it. With its stunning beauty, excellent amenities, and great accessibility, it’s no surprise that this is one of the best beaches in Massachusetts.

9. Marconi Beach, Wellfleet

bunch of people sunbaithing at the Marconi Beach, Wellfleet

|vv@ldzen|, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Marconi Beach in Wellfleet, Massachusetts is one of the best beaches in the state.

This stunning beach on Cape Cod features a two-mile stretch of white sand, dramatic cliffs, and awe-inspiring ocean views. The beach is lined with sand dunes, and you’ll also find freshwater ponds and marshland.

Marconi Beach is popular with tourists and locals alike, making it a great spot for social gatherings and beach days.

Marconi Beach is known for its excellent swimming conditions, although its waves can be unpredictable at times. In addition to swimming, you can go windsurfing, fishing, and enjoy a nice picnic. The beach also offers fun summer activities for all ages such as sandcastle competitions and beach volleyball.

If you’re looking to relax, you can take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk or bring a blanket and watch a beautiful sunset.

10. Head of the Meadow Beach, Truro

aerial view of the Head of the Meadow Beach, Truro

Chris Sherwood, Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center. Public domain., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Head of the Meadow Beach in Truro is a stunning and expansive beach in Cape Cod.

It provides stunning views and plenty of access to the Atlantic Ocean. You can enjoy hours of swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing along the long sandy beach. People from all over the area come to experience the breathtaking sunsets and peaceful atmosphere of the area.

Head of the Meadow Beach offers a variety of activities for you to enjoy. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the sand or have a go at kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding. You can also enjoy the seclusion from the numerous dunes that line the beach, as well as plenty of nearby trails to explore. The beach is well-known as a fishing destination and perfect spot for swimming.

If you’re an experienced surfer you’ll also appreciate the waves that can be enjoyed at Head of the Meadow Beach. The rip currents and longshore drift create ideal conditions for surfing, although swimmers should exercise caution due to the occasionally powerful currents.

When looking for the best beaches in Massachusetts, Head of the Meadow Beach is definitely one to consider. This stunning beach offers plenty of activities, breathtaking views, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the perfect summer day or sunset.

11. Coast Guard Beach, Eastham

sunset view of the beach at Coast Guard Beach, Eastham

Aprof2, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons 

Coast Guard Beach in Eastham, Massachusetts is an impressive stretch of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.

The wide beach stretches almost a mile long and is perfect for any and all beach activities, including swimming, kayaking or beachcombing.

This pristine and quiet beach is renowned for its sugar-white sands and crystal clear waters, making it an ideal spot for a beach vacation or an inspirational place to work.

The beach offers stunning views and plenty of places to stop and observe wildlife. The shoreline is lined with tall dunes and a rolling surf, making it the perfect spot for the avid surfer, and it has a nearby beach boardwalk, as well as museums, parks, and shopping centers.

For sun worshipers, the beach is full of chairs, blankets, and little nooks for dolphin sightings, plus the beach has a concession stand offering traditional beach snacks and refreshments, as well as a variety of other amenities.

12. Demarest Lloyd State Park, Dartmouth

bunch of people at the sand in front of the beach

NewtonCourt, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons 

Demarest Lloyd State Park in Dartmouth is one of the best beaches in Massachusetts particularly if you’re traveling as a family.

It offers stunning views of Buzzards Bay from its sandy beach, and plenty of space for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and more. Its facilities include changing rooms, showers, grills, and picnic tables, as well as several trails perfect for a leisurely stroll in the beachside woods.

The stretch of beach is wide, giving more than enough space to spread a blanket, set up a camp chair, and soak in some rays. There are also plenty of spots for kids and adults alike to play, with an array of games and activities to keep everyone entertained. The waters of Buzzards Bay are generally calm, making them ideal for swimming and wading.

Demarest Lloyd State Park is only a short drive from most South Coast communities, with easy access to nearby cafés, shops, and restaurants for an enjoyable day by the coast. The beach tends to be less crowded than others in the area, and the presence of lifeguards ensures a safe and fun experience for everyone.

13. Singing Beach, Manchester-by-the-Sea

two kids playing the sand near the beach

Kelly Sikkema | Unsplash

Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea is located on the North Shore of Massachusetts.

Right next to the Atlantic Ocean, a day out here will be nothing short of mesmerizing. The white sand and crystal-clear water make for a perfect spot to soak up some sun and take in the amazing views.

The beach is easily accessible by car and parking is conveniently located nearby. You’ll be able to swim, sunbathe, and explore the area at your leisure.

The beach is divided into two areas: one for swimming and another for sunbathers. The swimming area is full of lifeguards and beach attendants, so if swimming in the open ocean makes you a bit nervous, you’ll feel secure in these waters.

If you’re looking to relax, there’s plenty of space in the sunbathing area to lounge and take in the surroundings. You can even purchase food, drinks, and snacks right at the beach, making it that much easier to spend your day in the sun.

Aside from the incredible beach atmosphere, the beautiful Singing Beach is well known for the distinctive noise that is made when walking on the sand. This beach earns its name due to the ‘singing’ sound that is made when your feet hit the sand. This ‘singing’ or squeaking sound is due to the sand being made up of high-quality quartz particles and is without doubt an iconic beach experience.

For a memorable day out, Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea is a must-visit. Its family-friendly atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and “singing” sand make for an unforgettable experience.

14. Walden Pond, Concord

green river surrounded by trees known as the Walden Pond, Concord

Todd Van Hoosear, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Located between Lexington and Concord in the heart of the historic American Revolution area, Walden Pond offers locals and tourists alike a peaceful retreat in the form of its crystal clear waters and unique wildlife.

One of the best beaches in Massachusetts, Walden Pond’s popularity has increased over the years, branding it a National Historic Landmark.

The much-loved beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, canoeing, sailing and fishing.

What sets Walden Pond apart from other beaches in the state is the impossibly picturesque landscape that surrounds the beach on all sides, such as the great pines, cedars and hemlocks. These ancient trees give it an unspoken feeling of tranquility that is only further amplified when taking a walk around the pond’s tranquil waters.

Walden Pond has been home to some very influential figures in US history, most famously, it’s where Henry David Thoreau stayed and wrote his famous book “Walden” (which I’m ashamed to say I haven’t read!)

With its beautiful view, diverse wildlife, and strong historical background, Walden Pond has become one of the very best beaches in Massachusetts. There’s something about the beach that can’t be ignored; it’s more than just a place where you dip your toe in the water, it’s a place that has become more influential as time goes by. For a truly enriching and a once in a lifetime experience, add a visit to Walden Pond to your bucket list.

15. Menemsha Beach, Chilmark, Martha’s Vineyard

bunch of people holding their fishing rod during sunset

MarinelaK, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Menemsha Beach in Chilmark, Martha’s Vineyard is often listed as one of the best beaches in all of Massachusetts. While it’s not the largest, with it being only a few hundred yards long, it more than makes up for it in beauty and tranquility.

The beach is a great spot to relax and watch a beautiful sunset, with its gently sloping shoreline and the soaring cliffs of Aquinnah to the west. The sunsets over the bay are a sight to behold, and few things can compare to spending an evening out in nature at Menemsha Beach.

In the summer, the beach is a popular spot for local fisherpeople (!), who often come out in large numbers to fish for the day.

It’s also great for swimming, especially for younger kids and families (great for digital nomad families). The beach is surrounded by calm waters and it’s just shallow enough for non-swimmers to splash around, though the strong ocean currents in the area can be dangerous.

Walking and exploring the sand is also a popular activity, especially in the early morning, when the beach gets quite crowded with tourists and curious visitors looking to explore the shoreline and take in the stunning views.

16. Old Silver Beach, Falmouth

silver sand and beach

Massachusetts Dept. of Environmental Protection, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons 

Old Silver Beach, located on Cape Cod in Falmouth, Massachusetts, is widely considered to be one of the best beaches in Massachusetts. Its golden sand, warm waters of Vineyard Sound, and stunningly beautiful views make it a great place for visitors looking for a day of fun in the sun.

The area is particularly well-known for its spectacular sunsets, which hundreds gather to appreciate each night.

Apart from its remarkable beauty, Old Silver Beach also provides plenty of activities. Feel free to swim or kayak in the shallow waters, lounge on the beach and soak up the sun, or walk or jog one of the many beach trails. If you want to explore a bit further, the nearby Nobska Lighthouse is a great spot for awesome pics!

A day at Old Silver Beach can be rounded off with a trip to the nearby town center, where you can wile away the hours browsing local shops or eating at various seafood places. The area also has a few fun family attractions like mini-golf and a nearby water park.

17. South Beach, Martha’s Vineyard

white sand beside the beach

William Waterway, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

South Beach, located in Martha’s Vineyard, is one of the best beaches in Massachusetts. (If it wasn’t, it wouldn’t be on my list!)

With its long stretches of white sand and glittering blue waters, South Beach is well-known for its perfect swimming conditions, making it a popular spot for children, families, and experienced swimmers.

You can spend the day relaxing and sunbathing, or keep an eye out for dolphins, seals, and whales. You can also rent bicycles to explore the nearby trails and attractions.

The beach is equipped with full-service restrooms and showers, and food stalls, snack bars, and ice cream shops can also be found nearby.

South Beach is ideal for all kinds of beach activities, from swimming and sunbathing to snorkeling and surfing. Throughout the summer, lifeguards are present for a worry-free seaside experience.

No matter what your plans are, this beautiful beach offers a perfect combination of serenity, entertainment, and recreational activities.

18. Race Point Beach, Provincetown

birds standing at the sand near the beach

Giorgio Galeotti, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Race Point Beach in Provincetown is located near the far tip of the Cape Cod peninsula.

Race Point offers long stretches of white sand beaches alongside dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for walking, sunbathing, swimming and surfing.

The water at Race Point Beach is relatively safe year-round, although the rip current can sometimes be strong and the waves can be unpredictable. Swimmers are advised to take extra caution. Even though the waters can be choppy, the sand is usually well-maintained and littered with shells, rocks and sea-glass.

The nearby town of Provincetown is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, known for its bustling harbor, thriving art scene, and restaurants. It’s surrounded by a variety of activities and attractions, such as morning yoga classes, whale watching, live music and much more (perfect for Digital Nomads, looking for a bit of life around their relaxing destinations).

The surrounding areas of Race Point Beach offer a variety of places to stay from campgrounds to vacation rentals, as well as plenty of public parking if you’re visiting in an RV. There are also public restrooms and a snack bar, making this an ideal beach destination for long term travelers, nomads, backpackers or tourists.

19. Kalmus Beach, Cape Cod

Kalmus Beach is a must-see for visitors to the Massachusetts Cape Cod area looking for a beautiful beach.

Located in the lovely town of Barnstable, the beach offers stunning vistas of Cape Cod Bay, and is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and Instagram selfies!

Kalmus Beach has a wide variety of amenities that make it a great destination for beach-goers of all ages.

The tranquil water of Kalmus Beach is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The waters around the beach are crystal clear, allowing for great visibility underwater and making it perfect for spotting colorful fish, shallow-water wildlife, and vibrant coral. Protected by sand dunes and with consistent waves, it’s also a popular spot for surfers and windsurfers.

The area is well-equipped with benches, picnic tables, and barbecue areas, and plenty of bathrooms and showers. There’s also a snack bar that serves freshly-made seafood. And if you need a break from the sun, there’s a playground with swing sets, slides, and a carousel.

Overall, Kalmus Beach is a fantastic beach destination in Massachusetts.

20. Spectacle Island Beach, Boston

bunch of people at the seashore

NewtonCourt, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons 

Spectacle Island Beach in Boston, Massachusetts is often hailed as one of the best beaches in Massachusetts. Located in the Boston Harbor, the island is owned and operated by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Spectacle Island Beach has plenty to offer – providing a great opportunity to relax and take in breathtaking views of the harbor. The beach offers some of the clearest water in the area, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the ocean within just a few feet of shoreline.

Although Spectacle Island Beach is more of a recreational beach, as opposed to a traditional swimming beach, feel free to cool off in the shallow and calm waters. After a good swim, you can check out the many snack bars, restaurants and pubs around the island, offering delicious seafood and area specialties.

For the more active amongst you, the island offers a nine-hole golf course where you can practice your swing and take in the breathtaking views of the harbor. And if you’re traveling with your family, there are playgrounds, a climbing wall and games to be enjoyed.

Beyond the recreational activities and attractions, Spectacle Island Beach offers stunning views of boats sailing in and out of the harbor and is a great spot for both a romantic sunset or a sunrise yoga session.

21. Otis Reservoir, Otis

two dock near the body of water

John Phelan, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons 

I almost didn’t include Otis Reservoir, as it’s technically not a beach, but it’s such a gorgeous destination I felt compelled to include it!

Located in Otis, Massachusetts, the lake spans over 575 acres, making it the perfect location for outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, sailing, and kayaking. During the summer, the lake becomes an inviting place to cool off with plenty of shoreline available for walking and sunbathing.

The ‘beach’ is situated in the southern portion of the lake, and it is well-maintained with plenty of picnic tables and grills for a family outing.

Otis Reservoir is also home to a wide array of wildlife and plants. In the summer months, it’s common to spot various species of birds such as bald eagles, Canada geese, and great blue herons from the beach. Animal lovers can also look out for beavers, river otters, and white-tailed deer as they wander along the shore.

With its spectacular views, abundant wildlife and recreational activities, Otis Reservoir is a beautiful day out.

Best Time to Visit the Beaches in Massachusetts

Visiting the best beaches in Massachusetts during the peak of the summertime is obviously the best way to enjoy long days of sunshine, sand, and ocean waves, however, it will also be the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

July, August, and September offer hot, sunny weather with longer days ideal for beach lounging. The water is warm enough for swimming during these months, plus you can try out unique watersports such as paddle boarding and kite surfing. Camping near the shore is a great activity for the more adventurous, and there are plenty of options for ‘glamping’ with sites equipped with all the supplies you need for the perfect beach/camping excursion.

As a digital nomad or long term traveler with the flexibility to travel at anytime, May and June are beautiful months to take a break at the beach.

Temperatures may still be a bit cool, so this time of year is perfect for whale-watching or trying your hand at fishing in the local coastal towns. Pack a light sweater to stay cozy when the air turns chilly in the evening, but don’t forget to bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lots of sunscreen.

Of course, New England is known for its stunning foliage in the fall, so October can be just as pleasant for beach visits as the peak season months end. The days tend to be mild and sunny, and some of the beach activities are open late. Although you probably won’t be swimming or enjoying any water activities, you can walk along the shore, experience the amazing views and search for colorful seashells.

The shoulder seasons of May, June & October will also be cheaper and quieter with less tourists.

Whatever time of year you decide to travel, you can enjoy the beaches of Massachusetts.

beach view

Andrew Wolff | Unsplash

Best Beaches in Massachusetts – FAQ’s

What’s the Nicest Beach in MA?

Honestly as a digital nomad, my favorite beach is probably Race Point Beach, simply due to the surrounding atmosphere and activities. If you’re looking for something more tranquil, Chatham Beach or Kalmus Beach are good choices.

Are there any beaches in Massachusetts that allow pets?

Yes! The Cape Cod National Seashore allows pets on designated beaches. The area is a great spot to take a leisurely stroll, take a dip in the waves and relax with your furry friend.

What is the cleanest beach in Massachusetts?

The cleanest beach in Massachusetts is Coast Guard Beach. Home to miles of white sand and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean, Coast Guard is an excellent spot to swim, relax and enjoy the sea breeze.

Best Beaches in Massachusetts – Summary

Overall, Massachusetts is definitely the place to go if you’re looking to kick back, relax and enjoy some of the best beaches in the world.

From sweeping views of the Atlantic coastline to cozy-yet-charming retreats, you’ll easily find a beach in Massachusetts that suits your personal preference.

Whether you’re looking for a lively ocean-side town full of people, or a secret getaway on the outer reaches of the Bay, Massachusetts has a beach for everyone.

I hope this list of the best beaches in Massachusetts has helped you plan your trip. Have fun and let me know how you go!


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