I recently spent a quiet afternoon at Coast Guard Beach in Eastham, and it was just what I needed.
The beach was calm, peaceful, and full of natural beauty. I’ve been to a lot of beaches on Cape Cod, but this one stood out.
The sand was soft under my feet, and the waves rolled in gently. I took my time walking along the shore, listening to the sounds of the ocean.
It wasn’t crowded, which made it even better. There were families, couples, and people like me just soaking it all in.
If you’re looking for a slower pace and a pretty view, this spot is a great pick. In this post, I’ll share what I saw, what I liked, and why I think Coast Guard Beach is a quiet Cape gem.
Where Is Coast Guard Beach Located?
Coast Guard Beach is in the town of Eastham, on the Outer Cape. It’s part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, which means the land is protected and kept in its natural state.
There are no big hotels or stores nearby, just sand, dunes, and the ocean.
To get there, take Route 6 through Eastham. Follow signs for Doane Road, which leads to the Little Creek Shuttle Lot. From there, a shuttle takes you to the beach in summer.
Address for Navigation: 1 Doane Rd, Eastham, MA 02642
If you’re staying nearby, you can also bike there using the Cape Cod Rail Trail or walk from local inns and motels.
What Makes Coast Guard Beach Special?
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This beach is all about peace and beauty. It has soft sand, steady waves, and open sky. Even on busy days, it feels calm and not too crowded.
There’s no boardwalk, no big restaurants, no games. Just the sound of the ocean and space to enjoy it. The beach sits below a tall dune, and the views from the top are stunning.
It’s a favorite for locals and visitors who like quiet walks, nature, and a slower pace. You can swim, watch seals, or just sit and breathe. It’s that kind of place.
What the Sand and Water Are Like?
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The sand is light-colored, soft, and clean. It’s great for walking barefoot, building sandcastles, or just lying down on a towel. There are some pebbles here and there, but nothing sharp or painful.
The water is cool and clear, with small waves. Sometimes the surf picks up, but it’s usually gentle. Lifeguards post flags to show water safety.
You’ll want to take it slow when you first step in; it’s chilly, but it feels refreshing once you’re used to it.
You may even see seals bobbing in the water or swimming along the coast.
Parking at Coast Guard Beach
There’s no regular parking lot at the beach in summer. Instead, you’ll park at the Little Creek Shuttle Lot, located off Doane Road.
From there, you take a free shuttle that drops you off at the beach entrance. It’s a short ride, usually under 10 minutes. The shuttle is clean, safe, and runs often.
Parking and Shuttle Info for 2025
- Shuttle operates daily from mid-June to Labor Day
- Parking is free, but you pay a National Seashore entrance fee
- $25 for a day pass, or $60 for a season pass
- Off-season (fall, winter, spring): You can drive up to the small beach parking area directly
Tips for Parking
- Arrive early on warm days, shuttles can get busy by mid-morning
- Bring everything you need with you (you can’t go back to your car easily)
- No overnight parking allowed
- Shuttle drivers are friendly and can answer questions
What to Expect Around Coast Guard Beach
There aren’t many buildings around the beach, but you’ll find some helpful features that make visits easy.
1. Facilities and Cleanliness
This is a well-kept beach. It’s clean and simple, and part of the National Seashore’s mission is to keep it that way.
See what’s available:
- Restrooms: Located near the entrance (seasonal use)
- Changing stalls: Basic but private
- Outdoor showers: Good for rinsing off before getting on the shuttle
- Trash and recycling bins: Easy to find and use
- Lifeguards: On duty from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. mid-June through early September
Everything is clearly marked, and the beach is easy to navigate.
2. Food and Drinks
There’s no snack bar right on the beach. So, if you plan to stay for a while, it’s best to bring your own snacks and drinks.
Coolers, sandwiches, fruit, and water bottles are common among beachgoers. Just make sure to carry out all trash.
If you want to grab food before or after your beach day, head into Eastham.
Nearby places to eat:
- Arnold’s Lobster & Clam Bar: Fried seafood, ice cream, and more
- Sam’s Deli: Sandwiches and takeout
- Hole in One: Great breakfast or coffee stop
- Local Scoop: Frozen yogurt and ice cream
3. Activities and Things to Do
Coast Guard Beach is perfect for those who love simple, quiet beach days. Look at what you can do:
- Swimming: The water is cool and clean. Watch for safety flags posted by lifeguards.
- Walking: You can walk for miles in either direction. The views are beautiful.
- Seal watching: Seals often swim close to shore, especially in the morning.
- Photography: The light, waves, and dunes make for amazing photos.
- Birdwatching: You might see ospreys, plovers, and other coastal birds.
- Relaxing: Read a book, listen to music, or take a nap with the sound of the ocean.
4. Events and Nearby Attractions
The beach itself doesn’t host big events, but nearby Eastham and other Cape towns offer fun activities.
Nearby things to do:
- Salt Pond Visitor Center: Learn about Cape Cod’s history, trails, and wildlife
- Fort Hill Trail: A scenic walking trail with marsh and ocean views
- Cape Cod Rail Trail: Ride or walk the trail through woodlands and coastal areas
- Wellfleet Drive-In: Catch an old-school movie under the stars (20 minutes away)
For live music or small festivals, check town event calendars for Eastham and Orleans.
Safety and Beach Rules
The National Seashore has rules to keep Coast Guard Beach safe and clean:
- No alcohol
- No dogs during summer (May 15 to Oct 15)
- No fires or grilling
- No drones or loud music
- Swim near lifeguards
- Follow flag warnings for ocean conditions
- Leave wildlife alone (especially seals and birds)
There are posted signs with rules near the entrance. Rip currents can happen, so it’s best to swim where lifeguards can see you.
Is Coast Guard Beach Good for Kids?
Yes, families love this beach. It’s calm, clean, and there’s plenty of space. The soft sand is perfect for digging, and kids enjoy splashing in the shallows or looking for shells.
Just watch the surf. Some days the waves are stronger, so swimming should always happen near lifeguards.
Kid-friendly tips:
- Bring sand toys and games
- Pack snacks and extra water
- Use the restrooms before heading to the shore
- Keep little ones close to the water
- Look for seals together, it’s exciting for all ages
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
Coast Guard Beach offers something special in every season. Summer is sunny and lively, while fall is cool and quiet. Spring brings calm days and fresh air, and winter feels peaceful and still. Look at this quick guide to help you choose when to visit:
| Season | Months | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | June – August | Warmest water, shuttle service available, lifeguards on duty. Busiest time, but still calm. |
| Fall | September – October | Fewer people, crisp air, colorful foliage, and beautiful sunsets. |
| Winter | November – March | Very quiet and peaceful. Great for short walks, but cold—dress warmly. |
| Spring | April – May | Cool and quiet. Perfect for beach walks, seal watching, and photography. |
Tips for Visiting Coast Guard Beach
To make your trip even better:
- Arrive early to avoid shuttle waits
- Bring a cooler with food and drinks
- Use the restroom before heading to the shore
- Wear sandals, the paths can get hot
- Take photos from the top of the dune
- Watch for seals, but stay back
- Check the weather before you go
- Respect nature and clean up before leaving
Conclusion
Coast Guard Beach is one of those places that stays with you. It’s quiet, clean, and full of natural beauty.
I liked how calm it felt, even with others around. The soft sand, steady waves, and wide-open views made the day feel slow in the best way.
I didn’t feel rushed. I walked, sat, and just listened to the ocean. The shuttle ride was easy, and everything was well-kept.
It’s not a beach with crowds or noise. It’s a beach for peace. I’ve been to a lot of Cape beaches, but this one felt special.
If you want a simple, relaxing day, this is a great spot to visit. Pack light, take your time, and enjoy what’s in front of you. I’ll definitely be going back. It’s a place worth returning to.
