Are you ready to find out some of the most amazing beaches in America? Cape Cod beaches offer incredible adventures for everyone in your family!
Picture yourself building epic sandcastles, riding perfect waves, or hunting for colorful seashells along miles of soft, golden sand.
These Massachusetts shores have something special waiting for you. Love surfing? You’ll find awesome waves. Prefer calm swimming?
There are protected bays perfect for splashing around. Want to explore? Hidden coves and tide pools are filled with incredible sea creatures.
From busy beaches with volleyball games and snack bars to quiet spots where you can watch dolphins play, Cape Cod beaches create memories that last forever.
Historic lighthouses dot the coastline, and charming beach towns offer ice cream and souvenir shops. Pack your sunscreen and sense of thrill, your perfect beach day is calling!
Understanding Cape Cod’s Geography
Cape Cod’s hook-shaped peninsula divides into four regions with unique beach personalities. The “Upper Cape” sits closest to mainland Massachusetts, while the “Mid Cape” hosts popular Hyannis. The “Lower Cape” stretches toward the elbow, and the “Outer Cape” curves dramatically to Provincetown.
Three water bodies create completely different swimming experiences.
- The Atlantic Ocean: Features big waves and cooler water, making it excellent for surfing but chilly for casual swimming.
- Cape Cod Bay: Offers calm, warmer waters perfect for families with little kids.
- Nantucket Sound: Along the southern shore provides the sweet spot: moderate waves with warm, comfortable temperatures.
Tides change twice daily, revealing cool tide pools and sandbars during low tide, perfect for exploring marine life and beachcombing ventures!
Pro tip: Check tide charts before visiting for the best beach experience. Summer brings the warmest water, but shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds.
Atlantic Ocean Beaches: The Wild Side
Get ready for Cape Cod beaches’ most dramatic coastline! These Atlantic-facing beaches serve up powerful waves, vast sandy stretches, and that wild ocean energy that makes your heart race.
1. Race Point Beach, Provincetown
Source: ProvincetownMarina
This spectacular beach sits at Cape Cod’s very tip, offering incredible sunset views and some of the best whale watching on the East Coast. The expansive sandy shoreline stretches for miles with dramatic dunes as your backdrop.
Things to Do:
- Whale watching from shore
- Sunset photography
- Beachcombing for shells
- Dune exploration
Food & Dining:
- Seasonal snack bar
- Bring picnic supplies
- Downtown P-town restaurants are nearby
Parking & Amenities: Lot, restrooms, showers
Lifeguards: Summer season only
Best for: Sunset viewing, whale spotting
Accessibility: Beach wheelchair available
2. Herring Cove Beach, Provincetown
Source: Reddit
Famous for its stunning sunsets and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, this protected beach offers calmer waters than most Atlantic beaches. The southern end stays busier while the northern section provides more solitude.
Things to Do:
- Sunset celebrations
- Swimming in calmer waters
- Beach volleyball
- Photography walks
Food & Dining:
- Seasonal concession stand
- Picnic areas available
- Short drive to P-town restaurants
Parking & Amenities: Lots, restrooms, showers
Lifeguards: Memorial Day through Labor Day
Best for: Families, sunset viewing
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible boardwalk
3. Head of the Meadow Beach, Truro
Source: Reddit
This pristine beach offers incredible solitude with towering dunes and crashing waves. The northern section connects to dune trails, while the southern area provides easier beach access for families.
Things to Do:
- Dune hiking trails
- Surf fishing
- Photography expeditions
- Tide pool exploration
Food & Dining:
- No concessions, pack supplies
- Picnic tables in the parking area
- Wellfleet restaurants are 15 minutes away
Parking & Amenities: Free lot, restrooms
Lifeguards: None
Best for: Solitude seekers, photographers
Accessibility: Limited accessibility
4. Ballston Beach, Truro
Source: Expedia
A local favorite offering dramatic cliffs and powerful surf with fewer crowds than neighboring beaches. The steep stairs down create a more secluded feel, perfect for those seeking peace and natural beauty.
Things to Do:
- Surfing and bodyboarding
- Cliff-top hiking
- Seal watching
- Beach fishing
Food & Dining:
- No food services
- Bring all supplies
- Truro Center restaurants nearby
Parking & Amenities: Roadside, no facilities
Lifeguards: None
Best for: Experienced surfers, adventure seekers
Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
5. Marconi Beach, Wellfleet
Source: Reddit
Named after the wireless station site, this National Seashore beach features dramatic eroding cliffs and excellent surf. The historic significance adds educational value to your beach day experience.
Things to Do:
- Marconi Station historical site
- Surfing and boogie boarding
- Nature photography
- Beachcombing adventures
Food & Dining:
- Seasonal snack bar
- Picnic areas available
- Wellfleet restaurants nearby
Parking & Amenities: Paid parking, restrooms, showers, changing areas
Lifeguards: Summer season
Best for: History buffs, surfers
Accessibility: Steep stairs limit access
6. LeCount Hollow Beach, Wellfleet
Source: Reddit
This scenic beach offers excellent surfing conditions with consistent waves and a vibrant beach culture. The parking area fills quickly during summer, so arrive early for the best experience.
Things to Do:
- Surfing lessons and rentals
- Beach volleyball games
- Sunset watching
- Swimming and bodyboarding
Food & Dining:
- Popular seasonal snack bar
- Picnic tables available
- Ice cream and drinks
Parking & Amenities: Limited parking, restrooms, showers, equipment rental nearby
Lifeguards: Full summer coverage
Best for: Surfers, young adults
Accessibility: Moderate beach access
7. White Crest Beach, Wellfleet
Source: TheProvinceTownIndependent
Known as “White Crest” among locals, this beach attracts serious surfers and beach volleyball enthusiasts. The consistent waves and party atmosphere make it popular with college-aged visitors.
Things to Do:
- Competitive surfing
- Beach volleyball tournaments
- Live music events
- Social beach scene
Food & Dining:
- Lively beach bar
- Grilled food and beverages
- Late-night snack options
Parking & Amenities: Parking fills early, full restroom facilities, and outdoor shower stations
Lifeguards: Professional staff all summer
Best for: Surfers, social beach-goers
Accessibility: Sandy path from the parking
8. Cahoon Hollow Beach, Wellfleet
Source: Reddit
Home to the famous Beachcomber restaurant and nightclub, this beach combines great surfing with an active social scene. The combination of excellent waves and beachside dining creates a unique experience.
Things to Do:
- World-class surfing
- Live music and dancing
- Beachside dining
- Volleyball competitions
Food & Dining
- The Beachcomber restaurant
- Fresh seafood and cocktails
- Late-night entertainment
Parking & Amenities: Restaurant parking, restrooms, showers
Lifeguards: Professional coverage
Best for: Surfers, nightlife seekers
Accessibility: Accessible boardwalk available
9. Newcomb Hollow Beach, Wellfleet
Source: FineArtAmerica
This beautiful beach offers excellent surfing with a more laid-back atmosphere than its neighbors. The consistent waves and spacious sandy area make it perfect for all skill levels.
Things to Do:
- Beginner-friendly surfing
- Family beach activities
- Shell collecting
- Peaceful walks
Food & Dining:
- Seasonal snack shack
- Basic refreshments
- BYOB picnic friendly
Parking & Amenities: Moderate-sized lot, clean restrooms, outdoor rinse stations
Lifeguards: Summer weekends and holidays
Best for: Families learning to surf
Accessibility: Beach access ramp
10. Coast Guard Beach, Eastham
Source: Reddit
This iconic National Seashore beach features the famous Nauset Light and consistently ranks among America’s best beaches. The shuttle service during peak season adds to the experience.
Things to Do:
- Lighthouse photography
- Excellent surfing waves
- Nature center visits
- Historical exploration
Food & Dining:
- No concessions on the beach
- Visitor center snacks
- Eastham restaurants nearby
Parking & Amenities: Restaurant parking, restrooms, showers
Lifeguards: Full summer season
Best for: Photography, families
Accessibility: Excellent accessibility features
11. Nauset Beach, Orleans
Source: Reddit
This expansive beach stretches for miles with some of Cape Cod’s most consistent surf breaks. The wide sandy beach accommodates large crowds while still offering space for everyone.
Things to Do:
- Championship surfing competitions
- Beach driving (permit required)
- Kite flying
- Long-distance walking
Food & Dining:
- Popular seasonal snack bar
- Fresh seafood options
- Ice cream truck visits
Parking & Amenities: Restaurant parking, restrooms, showers
Lifeguards: Extensive coverage all summer
Best for: Surfers, large families
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible paths
Upper Cape Bay Beaches- Family Paradise
Welcome to Cape Cod’s gentlest waters! These protected bay beaches offer warm, calm conditions perfect for families with little ones who want to splash safely without battling ocean waves.
13. Scusset Beach, Sandwich
Source: Reddit
This expansive state-run beach offers the perfect introduction to Cape Cod Bay with gentle waves, warm water, and excellent facilities. The long sandy shoreline provides plenty of space for beach games and relaxation.
Things to Do:
- Tide pool exploration at low tide
- Beach volleyball and frisbee
- Fishing from designated areas
- Nature trail walking
Food & Dining:
- On-site snack bar with basics
- Picnic tables and grills are available
- Sandwich village restaurants nearby
Parking & Amenities: Large lot, restrooms, showers
Lifeguards: Memorial Day through Labor Day
Best for: Families with young children
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible facilities
14. Town Beach, Sandwich
Source: PetFriendlyTravel
A pleasing local beach offering classic Cape Cod bay swimming with historic Sandwich as your backdrop. The protected waters warm up beautifully in summer, making it ideal for extended swimming sessions.
Things to Do:
- Safe swimming for all ages
- Sandcastle building competitions
- Historic village exploration
- Gentle kayaking launches
Food & Dining:
- No concessions, pack supplies
- Historic Sandwich dining nearby
- Ice cream shops within walking distance
Parking & Amenities: Restaurant parking, restrooms, showers
Lifeguards: Weekends and holidays only
Best for: Local atmosphere, budget-conscious families
Accessibility: Limited accessibility features
15. Sandy Neck Beach, Barnstable
Source: Reddit
This four-mile barrier beach offers incredible variety from developed areas to pristine wilderness. The bay side offers calm family swimming, while the ocean side provides bigger waves.
Things to Do:
- Four-wheel drive beach exploration
- Bird watching in the dunes
- Both bay and ocean access
- Lighthouse photography
Food & Dining:
- Seasonal snack shack
- Picnic areas with tables
- Barnstable Harbor restaurants
Parking & Amenities: Beach parking, full restroom facilities, equipment rental available
Lifeguards: Summer season coverage
Best for: Adventure families, photographers
Accessibility: Beach wheelchair available
Mid Cape Bay Beaches – Gentle Waters & Endless Fun
The Mid Cape region offers some of Cape Cod’s most beloved and accessible bay beaches. These sheltered waters provide perfect conditions for families seeking calm swimming and unlimited beach fun.
16. Millway Beach, Barnstable
Source: CapeCodBeaches
A local favorite offering warm bay waters with spectacular sunset views across Cape Cod Bay. The gradual slope makes it perfect for families with toddlers learning to swim.
Things to Do:
- Sunset photography sessions
- Shallow water play
- Tidal flat exploration
- Family beach games
Food & Dining:
- No food services
- Bring picnic supplies
- Barnstable restaurants nearby
Parking & Amenities: Free street parking, portable restrooms, no shower facilities
Lifeguards: None
Best for: Sunset lovers, budget families
Accessibility: Beach access is challenging
17. Corporation Beach, Dennis
Source: Reddit
This popular family beach features warm bay waters, extensive tidal flats, and excellent facilities. At low tide, families can walk far out into the bay, exploring marine life.
Things to Do:
- Low-tide exploration adventures
- Safe swimming for children
- Beach combing for shells
- Volleyball and beach games
Food & Dining:
- Seasonal snack bar
- Picnic areas available
- Dennis Port restaurants nearby
Parking & Amenities: Municipal lot, full restroom facilities, outdoor shower stations
Lifeguards: Full summer season
Best for: Families with young kids
Accessibility: Good accessibility features
18. Mayflower Beach, Dennis
Source: Reddit
One of Cape Cod’s most beloved family beaches, offering a mile of sandy shoreline with incredibly warm, shallow water. The extensive tidal flats create natural pools perfect for children.
Things to Do:
- Tidal pool discovery
- Sand sculpture contests
- Safe swimming conditions
- Beach walking and jogging
Food & Dining:
- Popular seasonal concessions
- Fresh seafood options
- Ice cream and cold drinks
Parking & Amenities: Large lot, restrooms, multiple showers
Lifeguards: Professional staff all summer
Best for: Families, swimming enthusiasts
Accessibility: Full wheelchair accessibility
19. Chapin Beach, Dennis
Source: Reddit
A unique drive-on beach offering four-wheel drive access to miles of pristine bay shoreline. The dramatic tidal changes create fascinating landscapes twice daily.
Things to Do:
- Four-wheel drive beach adventures
- Extreme low tide exploration
- Seal watching opportunities
- Photography expeditions
Food & Dining:
- No concessions available
- Pack all food and drinks
- Dennis restaurants nearby
Parking & Amenities: Beach driving permits required, portable facilities only, no showers
Lifeguards: None
Best for: Adventure seekers, 4WD enthusiasts
Accessibility: Vehicle access only
20. Paine’s Creek Beach, Brewster
Source: Reddit
This picturesque beach features a tidal creek that creates a natural lazy river effect. Children love floating down the gentle current while parents relax on the sandy shores.
Things to Do:
- Creek floating adventures
- Tide pool investigations
- Photography walks
- Peaceful reading spots
Food & Dining:
- No food services
- Scenic picnic opportunities
- Brewster restaurants nearby
Parking & Amenities: Limited street parking, basic portable facilities, no showers available
Lifeguards: None
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers
Accessibility: Limited access
21. Breakwater Beach, Brewster
Source: Expedia
A quiet beach perfect for families seeking calm bay waters without crowds. The gentle slope and warm water make it ideal for children learning to swim.
Things to Do:
- Swimming lessons for kids
- Shell and sea glass collecting
- Quiet beach reading
- Sunset viewing
Food & Dining:
- No concessions
- Bring picnic supplies
- Brewster dining options nearby
Parking & Amenities: Small parking area, basic restroom facilities, limited amenities
Lifeguards: Seasonal coverage
Best for: Quiet family time
Accessibility: Moderate accessibility
22. Point of Rocks Beach, Brewster
Source: CapeCodBeaches
This scenic beach offers fascinating rock formations and excellent low-tide exploring. The protected location provides consistently calm conditions perfect for young swimmers.
Things to Do:
- Rock pool exploration
- Marine life discovery
- Photography opportunities
- Peaceful beach walks
Food & Dining:
- No food services available
- Pack lunch and snacks
- Local Brewster restaurants
Parking & Amenities: Limited parking, no facilities.
Lifeguards: None
Best for: Nature enthusiasts, solitude seekers
Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
Lower Cape Bay Beaches- Wild Beauty & Tranquil Shores
The Lower Cape’s bay beaches showcase Cape Cod’s wild and pristine beauty at its finest. These protected waters offer spectacular views and serene atmospheres away from the crowds.
23. Skaket Beach, Orleans
Source: BeachSearcher
This expansive bay beach offers some of Cape Cod’s most dramatic tidal changes, with water receding nearly a mile at low tide. The warm, shallow water attracts families from across the Cape.
Things to Do:
- Epic low tide exploration
- Warm water swimming
- Beach games and sports
- Sunset photography
Food & Dining:
- Seasonal snack bar
- Picnic areas with tables
- Orleans restaurants nearby
Parking & Amenities: Large municipal lot, full restroom facilities, outdoor shower stations
Lifeguards: Full summer coverage
Best for: Families, tide pool lovers
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
24. First Encounter Beach, Eastham
Source: Reddit
Named for the Pilgrims’ first encounter with Native Americans, this historic beach offers calm bay waters and stunning sunset views. The vast tidal flats provide endless exploration opportunities.
Things to Do:
- Historical site exploration
- Spectacular sunset viewing
- Tidal flat adventures
- Photography workshops
Food & Dining:
- No concessions available
- Picnic-friendly location
- Eastham restaurants nearby
Parking & Amenities: Free municipal parking, basic restroom facilities, limited amenities
Lifeguards: None
Best for: History buffs, sunset photographers
Accessibility: Limited accessibility
Pro tip: Check tide charts for bay beaches – low tide reveals amazing exploration areas. These calm waters warm up faster than ocean beaches, perfect for comfortable swimming.
Upper Cape Nantucket Sound Beaches- The Perfect Balance
Experience the best of both worlds! These south-facing beaches offer moderate waves, warm water, and vibrant beach scenes that perfectly balance relaxation with excitement.
25. Old Silver Beach, Falmouth
Source: Reddit
This stunning crescent-shaped beach consistently ranks among New England’s best, offering crystal-clear water, soft white sand, and excellent facilities. The protected cove provides gentle waves perfect for all ages.
Things to Do:
- World-class swimming conditions
- Beach volleyball tournaments
- Snorkeling in clear water
- Sunset cocktail watching
Food & Dining:
- Popular beachside restaurant
- Fresh seafood and cocktails
- Ice cream and a snack bar
Parking & Amenities: Large lot fills early, premium restroom facilities, multiple shower stations
Lifeguards: Professional staff all summer
Best for: Beach perfectionists, couples
Accessibility: Excellent accessibility features
26. Surf Drive Beach, Falmouth
Source: Reddit
A mile-long beach offering gentle Nantucket Sound waves with stunning views of Martha’s Vineyard. The paved bike path runs alongside, making it perfect for active families combining cycling with beach time.
Things to Do:
- Biking along the Shining Sea Bikeway
- Moderate wave swimming
- Beach picnicking
- Martha’s Vineyard viewing
Food & Dining:
- Seasonal snack shack
- Picnic tables available
- Falmouth Harbor restaurants
Parking & Amenities: Roadside parking, clean restroom facilities, bike rack areas
Lifeguards: Summer weekends.
Best for: Active families, cyclists
Accessibility: Paved path access
27. Falmouth Heights Beach, Falmouth
Source: FamouthCapeCodMassachusetts
This charming neighborhood beach offers warm Sound waters with a classic New England seaside community atmosphere. The gradual slope and gentle waves make it ideal for families with children.
Things to Do:
- Safe family swimming
- Beach games and frisbee
- Community beach events
- Historic neighborhood walks
Food & Dining:
- No concessions on the beach
- Falmouth Heights restaurants
- Ice cream shops nearby
Parking & Amenities: Limited street parking, basic restroom facilities, neighborhood charm
Lifeguards: Seasonal coverage
Best for: Local community feel
Accessibility: Limited accessibility
28. Menauhant Beach, Falmouth
Source: CapeCodBeaches
A beautiful residential beach offering pristine Sound waters with less crowding than other Falmouth beaches. The soft sand and moderate waves create perfect conditions for relaxation and swimming.
Things to Do:
- Peaceful swimming
- Shell collecting walks
- Quiet reading spots
- Photography sessions
Food & Dining:
- No food services
- Pack picnic supplies
- East Falmouth restaurants
Parking & Amenities: Small parking area, portable restrooms, limited facilities
Lifeguards: None
Best for: Quiet families, couples
Accessibility: Beach access is challenging
29. New Silver Beach, Falmouth
Source: CompassVacationRentals
Old Silver’s quieter neighbor offers the same stunning white sand and clear water with fewer crowds. This local favorite provides a more intimate beach experience while maintaining excellent swimming conditions.
Things to Do:
- Peaceful swimming sessions
- Beach reading and relaxation
- Photography without crowds
- Shell and sea glass hunting
Food & Dining:
- No concessions available
- Pack lunch and snacks
- Falmouth village restaurants
Parking & Amenities: Limited parking, basic restroom facilities
Lifeguards: None
Best for: Solitude seekers, residents
Accessibility: Moderate beach access
Mid Cape Nantucket Sound Beaches- Warm Waters & Coastal Convenience
Mid Cape’s Nantucket Sound beaches offer the perfect blend of convenience and coastal charm. These south-facing shores provide warm waters, gentle waves, and easy access to Cape Cod’s most popular beach destinations.
30. Kalmus Beach, Hyannis
Source: BeachSearcher
Cape Cod’s premier windsurfing destination offers consistent breezes and moderate waves perfect for water sports. The wide beach accommodates both active sports enthusiasts and relaxing sunbathers.
Things to Do:
- Windsurfing and kiteboarding
- Jet ski launching
- Beach volleyball games
- People watching
Food & Dining:
- Seasonal concession stand
- Food trucks and vendors
- Hyannis Harbor restaurants nearby
Parking & Amenities: Large lot, restrooms, equipment rentals
Lifeguards: Full summer season
Best for: Water sports enthusiasts
Accessibility: Good accessibility features
31. Veterans Beach, Hyannis
Source: CapeCodBeaches
Located in the heart of Hyannis, this convenient beach offers warm Sound swimming with easy access to downtown shopping and dining. The protected harbor location provides calm conditions.
Things to Do:
- Harbor swimming
- Downtown shopping walks
- Ferry hopping to islands
- Memorial Park exploration
Food & Dining:
- Walking distance to restaurants
- Harbor area dining
- Snack bars nearby
Parking & Amenities: Municipal parking, restrooms, showers
Lifeguards: Summer coverage
Best for: Convenience seekers
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
32. Craigville Beach, Centerville
Source: Reddit
Known as “Muscle Beach” for its athletic crowd and beach volleyball scene, this popular destination offers excellent Sound swimming with a vibrant social atmosphere.
Things to Do:
- Competitive beach volleyball
- Swimming and bodysurfing
- Social beach scene
- Fitness activities
Food & Dining:
- Popular beachside snack bar
- Fresh food and cold drinks
- Centerville restaurants nearby
Parking & Amenities: Large lot, excellent facilities, multiple showers
Lifeguards: Professional coverage all summer
Best for: Young adults, athletes
Accessibility: Full wheelchair access
33. West Dennis Beach, West Dennis
Source: BeachSearcher
This mile-long beach offers excellent Sound swimming with consistent, gentle to moderate waves. The wide sandy area provides plenty of space for all beach activities.
Things to Do:
- Family-friendly swimming
- Beach games and sports
- Long walking/jogging
- Lighthouse photography
Food & Dining:
- Seasonal snack bar
- Basic refreshments
- West Dennis restaurants
Parking & Amenities: Large lot, restrooms, outdoor showers
Lifeguards: Full summer season
Best for: Active families
Accessibility: Good accessibility
Conservation and Beach Etiquette
Cape Cod beaches are natural treasures that need our protection. By following simple conservation practices and beach etiquette, we can ensure these beautiful shores remain spectacular for future generations.
- Respect Wildlife: Keep a distance from seals and birds, never feed animals, and avoid nesting areas
- Pack Out Trash: Remove all waste, including food scraps and cigarette butts
- Use Designated Paths: Stay on boardwalks and marked trails to protect fragile dunes
- Follow Local Rules: Observe parking regulations, leash laws, and seasonal restrictions
- Be Considerate: Keep noise levels reasonable, give others space, supervise children
Your responsible actions today protect Cape Cod’s natural beauty for tomorrow’s beach lovers. Every small effort makes a big difference in preserving these coastal gems.
NOTE: Most of the Cape Cod beaches are part of protected National Seashore areas; always check local regulations.
Last wave
Cape Cod beaches truly offer something magical for every beach lover! From world-famous surfing spots to peaceful family swimming areas, you’ve learned why millions of people visit these incredible shores every year.
If you’re building sandcastles with little ones, catching your first wave, or watching stunning sunsets paint the sky, these Massachusetts beaches create memories you’ll treasure forever.
The charming beach towns, historic lighthouses, and friendly local communities make every visit feel special.
Now it’s your turn to experience the Cape Cod beaches! Plan your beach adventure, pack your sunscreen, and get ready for the time of your life.
Have you visited any of these amazing Cape Cod beaches? Share your favorite beach memories or ask questions in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your ventures!
Ready, set, beach time, Cape Cod is waiting for you!
