If you and the family are in need of a relaxing beach getaway, wipe away all your worries on the beach in Massachusetts. The sandy beaches and calm nautical lifestyle will make memories for a lifetime, and the kids will love all of the fun water activities! You’ll feel right at home in your Massachusetts vacation rental and many are within walking to distance to the beach. Whether you spend the weekend on Martha’s Vineyard or want a beach day on your Boston vacation, we’ve got you covered. Here are the ten best beaches in Massachusetts you need to check out.
1. Katama Beach
Just south of Cape Cod is Martha’s Vineyard, a picturesque island known for its sandy beaches and fun family activities. One of the most popular beaches on the island is Katama Beach. This public beach is easily accessible and has lifeguards on duty, however, the surf is known for being strong. Bring your boogie and surfboards for optimal ocean fun and don’t forget the sunscreen! There is so much to explore on Martha’s Vineyard, you’ll want to book a vacation rental to see it all.
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2. Mayflower Beach
Named after the ship that brought the pilgrims to this state almost 400 years ago, Mayflower Beach is a Massachusetts treasure. Located in the town of Dennis in Cape Cod, Mayflower Beach is family-friendly and incredibly clean. The beach has a boardwalk, concessions and bathrooms perfect for a day-long beach day. You can buy a parking pass at the Dennis Town Hall for $20 on weekdays and $25 on weekends. It can get fairly busy in the summer season, so get there early to get a spot on the pristine beach.
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3. Race Point Beach
Make your way to the tip of Cape Cod in Provincetown, where you’ll find the sandy white Race Point Beach. The typical calm waters are perfect for families and is even dog friendly. Catch a stunning sunrise on this beach or check out Provincetown, full of delicious restaurants, nightlife and artists. At the end of the day make your way to the Race Point Lighthouse and get stunning photos of “The Bay State’s” one-of-a-kind scenery.
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4. Crane Beach
Best of Boston voted this “Best Beach” for good reason. Crane Beach, located in Ipswich, is famous for its boardwalks and calm waters. Stretching over four miles, this beach is home to a variety of wildlife including the piping plover. Amenities at Crane Beach include showers, lifeguards and parking. Be sure to check their Twitter for parking updates, as it can fill up fast in the summer!
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5 . Sconset Beach
Take you and the family down to the Nantucket and see what island life has to offer. Beaches on the south shore are perfect for surfing and other strong tide activities. However, the east side is known for its calm waters and relaxing beaches. Sconset Beach is located on the east side of the island and is near restaurants and even a bike path. Nantucket has a popular whaling museum as well as several lighthouses. Bring your camera to capture the nautical scenery!
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6. Nickerson State Park
Nickerson State Park in Brewster, Massachusetts is a popular destination for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. However, it also has ponds perfect for swimming, canoeing and even sailing. The park offers rentals for canoes and sailboats and it also has accessible restrooms. Parking costs $15 for the day and camping spots at the park fill up fast. If you aren’t up for camping, find a vacation rental in Brewster and be nearby to many other beaches in the area.
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7. Revere Beach
One if by lantern, two if by sea. You may remember this piece of history as “Paul Revere’s Ride.” Soak up a piece of history at Revere Beach, the United State’s first public beach. About four miles south of downtown Boston, Revere Beach is a popular destination for Bostonians and travelers from around the world. Catch a summer concert here or just lounge on the beach people watching. If you want to be close to all of the action, book a vacation rental in the area to be up close and personal to the history and nature that makes Massachusetts so unique.
8. Hardings Beach
Hardings Beach is the perfect place to go for swim, surf and fun in the sand. With places to play volleyball and wiffleball, as well as launch a sailboat, you’ll never get bored at Hardings Beach! Parking permits can be purchased for $15 for the day or $60 for the week. Facing the Nantucket Sound in West Chatham, Hardings Beach has calm waters warmer than other beaches. A hiking trail is also nearby for those looking to explore the area.
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9. Sea Street Beach
Sea Street Beach, or Keyes Beach, is the perfect stop on your Cape Cod adventure. Located in the Hyannis port, this beach has a great view of the harbor and is nearby many restaurants and shopping. This beach is one of the lesser-known destinations, so you will beat the crowds but get the same great experience. Bring a picnic to enjoy the view on one of the many picnic tables or grab a snack at the nearby concessions.
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10. Salisbury Beach State Reservation
Salisbury has one of the most popular beaches in the state for its friendly facilities, sandy beaches and fun activities. Parking is $20 a day at the nearly four-mile beach or you can get a camping spot. The beach offers a playground for the kids, restaurants and a scenic boardwalk. Keep an eye out for harbor seals and other wildlife in the area.
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