Discover the Best Beaches on Cape Ann: Coastal Gems Near Boston
Kick back and relax on the beautiful beaches of Cape Ann
Cape Ann, a picturesque coastal area just an hour north of Boston, is home to some of the best beaches in Massachusetts. Here are the top five beaches you must visit on Cape Ann for a perfect seaside escape.
1. Good Harbor Beach
Location: Gloucester, MA
Good Harbor Beach is a family favorite, offering pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. At low tide, visitors can walk out to Salt Island via a sandbar, making it a unique spot for exploration. The beach is well-equipped with facilities including showers, restrooms, and a concession stand, ensuring a comfortable visit. Parking can be pricey, so arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.
2. Wingaersheek Beach
Location: Gloucester, MA
Wingaersheek Beach is known for its shallow, warm waters and soft sandy shores, making it ideal for families with young children. At low tide, the beach expands significantly, allowing for fun sandbar walks. The beach offers amenities such as showers, restrooms, and a snack shack. It's a perfect spot for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing.
3. Long Beach
Location: Gloucester/Rockport, MA
Stretching along the coast between Gloucester and Rockport, Long Beach boasts soft white sand and picturesque views of Thacher Island and its lighthouses. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer, ensuring a safe environment for swimming and boogie boarding. The beach becomes much wider at low tide, offering plenty of space for beachgoers to spread out and enjoy the sun.
4. Plum Cove Beach
Location: Gloucester, MA
Plum Cove Beach is a hidden gem known for its stunning sunset views and calm waters, making it perfect for families with young children. Due to its secluded location, parking is limited to residents with beach stickers. However, this limitation ensures the beach remains less crowded, providing a peaceful and relaxing environment for visitors.
5. Singing Beach
Location: Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA
Singing Beach, famous for its "singing" sands that emit a squeaking sound when walked upon, offers a unique beach experience. The beach features clear waters and a half-mile stretch of golden sand. Amenities include a historic bathhouse with restrooms and showers, as well as a snack bar. While parking can be challenging, taking the train to Manchester-by-the-Sea and walking to the beach is a convenient alternative.
These five beaches on Cape Ann offer diverse experiences, from family-friendly shallow waters to unique natural phenomena. Whether you're a local or just visiting, these coastal treasures are sure to provide a memorable beach day near Boston.