3. Race Point Beach, Massachusetts
The tip of Cape Cod really has it all if you’re looking for a top beach location in New England. As part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, this well-maintained section has stunning sunsets, a vibrant restaurant scene, and plenty of activity on the social calendar stretching well into the shoulder seasons. The nearby Province Lands Bike Trail is a paved way through the beach forest and up and over dunes with stunning water views.
The addition of a seasonal fast ferry from Boston transports day visitors to the area in a quick 90 minutes. Whatever your means of transportation to the end of the Cape, all will be pleasantly rewarded when you arrive at Race Point Beach.
The expanse of beach is wide and lengthy. Due to its location at the confluence of Cape Cod Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, the strip of sand is known for rougher waters and some dangerous tides. There are still plenty of shallow areas for less experienced swimmers and children. The beach provides seasonal restrooms, showers, and changing rooms.
4. Coast Guard Beach, Massachusetts
While there is no way to seriously rank one Cape Beach from another, there is little dispute from visitors that Coast Guard Beach in Eastham is simply take-your-breath-away gorgeous. Often recognized as one of the top 10 on various lists of America’s Best Beaches, sun worshippers find it hard to disagree. Large, dramatic dunes back the flat, sandy beach, which is regularly full of volleyball games, boogie boarders, surfers, and sunseekers.
There is limited parking here for residents only. Drop-off and pickup at the beach is prohibited and closely monitored. Visitors park at the Little Creek parking lot on Doane Road and take the free shuttle to the beach. The shuttles are very convenient and run every few minutes.
This is a very appealing destination, with its expansive sand dunes, adjacent marshlands, and stunning sea views. The boardwalk runs right to the beach, and it is equipped for disabled access. The surf is large and attracts surfers and adventurous boogie boarders. Watch for the curious seals, who, although harmless, could be a bit startling. Sunset views make Coast Guard Beach a popular spot to close out the day.
