Scusset Beach – Sandwich
Perfect for: Easy access, family fun, and ship spotting on the canal Just over the Sagamore Bridge, Scusset Beach State Reservation is a Cape Cod beachgoer’s dream—without having to drive far into the Cape. With soft sand, calm surf, and sweeping views of the Cape Cod Bay, it’s popular for families, picnics, and fishing. Bonus: The nearby Cape Cod Canal path is great for walking or biking. Need to know:– Parking: Large state-run lot; tends to fill by mid-morning on weekends.
– Fees: $20/day for MA residents, $30 for out-of-state; details here.
– Amenities: Restrooms, showers, snack bar, picnic areas, lifeguards, fishing pier.
– Tip: Great for RV travelers—Scusset has a campground with electric hookups.
– Of Note: Scusset Beach is part of the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Universal Access Program. This beach can be accessed via a beach mat or in a beach wheelchair. There is an accessible salt-water fishing pier in the Reservation at the headquarters on the Cape Cod Canal.
Mayflower Beach – Dennis
Perfect for: Tidepool explorers and sunset chasers This bayside Cape beach is famous for its dramatic low tides, revealing sandbars and tidal pools perfect for beachcombing. It’s ideal for families with kids who love to splash around in the shallows—and it gets extra points for its west-facing sunset views over Cape Cod Bay. Need to know:– Parking: Paid lot for non-residents; fills fast in July and August.
– Fees: Day passes available on a first-come, first-serve basis, payable by credit card.
– Amenities: Restrooms, showers, and seasonal lifeguards.
Philbin Beach – Aquinnah, Martha’s Vineyard
Perfect for: Serenity seekers and sunset romantics Philbin Beach is a wild and rugged gem on the western edge of Martha’s Vineyard. Set below the famous Aquinnah Cliffs, it feels remote, quiet, and deeply scenic—an ideal beach for reading, walking, and taking in the views. Need to know:– Parking: Strictly limited to Aquinnah residents and renters with a permit.
– Access: Non-permit holders can walk or bike in.
– Fees: Free if you can get there!
– No services: Pack everything you need, including water and snacks.
Children’s Beach – Nantucket
Perfect for: Family splashes and perfect picnics Children’s Beach is perfect for a quick splash or a leisurely picnic. It’s located close to town and features one of the best playgrounds on the island. Need to know:– Parking: Very limited; bike or walk for best access.
– Fees: Free.
– Amenities: Seasonal lifeguard, restrooms, showers, and food service. this beach during the summer months.
– Bonus: Calm waters make it ideal for paddleboarding or kayaking.
Perfect for: Dramatic sunsets and strong surf This is the place to go if you want a classic Nantucket sunset. The surf is bigger here, so it’s popular with experienced swimmers and body surfers. And when you’re done on the sand, grab fish tacos and a cold drink at nearby Millie’s. Need to know:– Parking: Free but limited. The beach is accessible via a 5.5-mile paved bike path or the seasonal Nantucket Regional Transit Authority (NRTA) shuttle bus.
– Amenities: Seasonal lifeguards; no public restrooms or food service
– Caution: Stronger surf—swim carefully and watch the flags.
Marconi Beach – Wellfleet
Perfect for: Dune lovers and boogie boarders Named after the wireless radio pioneer who once transmitted messages here, Marconi Beach is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. It features dramatic dunes, a long stretch of sand, and usually excellent waves for body surfing and boogie boarding. Need to know:– Parking: Large lot, fills during peak hours.
– Fees: $25/day or use your National Park pass. Details at NPS.gov.
– Amenities: Restrooms, outdoor showers, seasonal lifeguards.
– Tip: There’s a staircase to the beach—don’t overpack!
Coast Guard Beach – Eastham
Perfect for: Postcard-perfect beach scenes and seal sightings Consistently ranked among the top beaches in the U.S., Coast Guard Beach is beloved for its sweeping Atlantic views, reliable surf, and chances to spot seals bobbing just offshore. It’s a classic Cape Cod beach experience. Need to know:– Parking: No general parking at the beach in summer—park at Little Creek and take the free shuttle.
– Fees: Covered by Seashore entrance fee. Details at NPS.gov.
– Amenities: Seasonal lifeguards, restrooms, and a paved path to the beach.
– Pro tip: Go early or late for fewer crowds and great light for photos.
Beach Tips for Cape Cod and the Islands
– Bring cash or cards: Some beaches accept both; others (like town-run lots) may require cash or app-based payment.
– Download parking info ahead of time: Many towns update availability online during the summer.
– Protect wildlife: Stay off dunes, fill in holes, and pack out your trash.
– Watch for sharks: Yes, they’re part of the ecosystem. Follow posted advisories and swim smart.
Whether you’re in it for the sunsets, the surf, the shells, or just a nap on the beach blanket, Cape Cod and the Islands offer a beach for every kind of beachgoer. Grab your sunscreen, cue up your favorite summer playlist, and make your way to the coast—adventure (and maybe a lobster roll) awaits. Cape Cod Beach Information Martha’s Vineyard Beach Information Nantucket Beach Information Accessible Beach Access in Massachusetts
