Beaches in the Northeast

Location: Long Beach, Long Island, New York

Recommended For: New Yorkers, families, beachgoers, surfers, and those seeking a balance of solitude and social atmosphere.

What we Love: "It's a fantastic beach destination just outside NYC. I especially like the calm atmosphere on midweek afternoons."

• Stroll along the three-mile stretch of golden sand lining Long Island’s southern shore — ideal for sunbathers and walkers alike.
• Unwind midweek when the beach is delightfully quiet, perfect for a peaceful escape just outside the city.
• Play in the family-friendly Ocean Beach Park area, complete with restrooms, concession stands, and play zones.
• Choose your vibe — go from intimate and cozy in the quieter sections to vibrant and social near the main beach hubs.

Cost: Beach access requires a daily or seasonal pass for non-residents; free for residents with proper ID.

Best time to visit: Summer weekends for a lively atmosphere; weekdays for solitude and space.

Local tips: Arrive early to snag parking during peak times. The boardwalk is perfect for biking, skating, or people-watching.

Distance: ~45 minutes by train from Penn Station (via LIRR); ~1-hour drive from Manhattan.

How to Get to Long Beach: Take the LIRR Long Beach branch from Penn Station or drive via Southern State Parkway to Long Beach Road.

Location: Boothbay Harbor, Maine

Recommended For: Coastal retreat seekers, couples, boat lovers, and anyone in need of a serene seaside escape.

What we Love: "Golden sands and bobbing boats — Boothbay Harbor feels like an instant reset button for the soul. think salty air, lighthouse views, and cozy seaside strolls. Yes, please!"

• Relax on quiet stretches of golden sand, a perfect contrast to busy city life.
• Explore a charming New England harbor town dotted with boutique beaches, scenic lookouts, and peaceful coves.
• Stay in style with a wide selection of private rentals and cozy hotels perfect for a romantic or extended coastal getaway.
• Watch boats drift in and out of the harbor — a peaceful, almost meditative pastime along this picturesque waterfront.

Cost: Public beach access is free; accommodations and tours vary in price.

Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for ideal beach weather and boat-watching conditions.

Local tips: Book lodging early during summer months; harbor cruises and lighthouse tours are popular and often fill up fast.

Distance: About 1 hour from Portland, ME; approximately 3 hours from Boston, MA.

How to Get to Boothbay Harbor: From I-295, take US-1 North to ME-27 South into Boothbay Harbor. Public transportation is limited, so driving is recommended.

Romantic Beaches in the Northeast:

Location: Madison, Connecticut

Recommended For: Quiet beachgoers, coastal town explorers, day-trippers from New York or Boston, and couples seeking a peaceful escape.

What we Love: "With its golden sands, coastal charm, and Long Island Sound views, Madison feels like a well-kept secret. It’s the kind of place where you can hear the waves and your thoughts — uninterrupted."

• Relax on some of Connecticut’s most beautiful and serene beaches, far from the usual tourist crowds.
• Enjoy sweeping views of Long Island Sound in every direction, perfect for sunrise or sunset strolls.
• Dine at local high-quality restaurants just a short walk from the shore.
• Discover a quiet gem that’s under the radar — but not for long.

Cost: Free or low-cost public beach access; parking fees may apply for non-residents.

Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for warm weather and fewer crowds.

Local tips: Head to Hammonasset Beach State Park for the widest beach and best facilities. Grab a bite at local eateries along Boston Post Road.

Distance: About 30 minutes from New Haven; 2 hours from both New York City and Boston.

How to Get to Madison: Easily accessible via I-95. Madison also has a train station served by Shore Line East, connecting to Amtrak and Metro-North.

Location: Southampton, Long Island, New York

Recommended For: Beach lovers, Hamptons explorers, upscale getaway seekers, and fans of live summer entertainment.

What we Love: "With its silky sands, sweeping views, and elegant surroundings, Coopers Beach is the crown jewel of the Hamptons — where classic seaside charm meets luxury."

• Swim or relax along one of the top-ranked beaches in the U.S. with pristine, wide shorelines.
• Catch live outdoor concerts that bring a vibrant local culture to the beach experience.
• Explore the area’s majestic dunes and high-end estates — a true slice of the good life.
• Dine at top-notch eateries located just steps from the sand.

Cost: Day passes required for parking; beach access free for pedestrians and cyclists.

Local tips: Arrive early on weekends for easier parking and bring a camera — the homes along Meadow Lane are legendary.

Distance: Around 2 hours from New York City by car or train.

How to Get to Coopers Beach: Take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Southampton and a short cab or bike ride to the beach.

Family Beaches in the Northeast:

Location: Off the coast of Rhode Island, accessible by ferry from Point Judith, Rhode Island or New London, Connecticut.

Recommended For: Nature lovers, quiet-seekers in spring/fall, summer beachgoers, and anyone chasing New England coastal charm.

What we Love: "With 7,000 windswept acres, soft sand beaches, and just 1,000 year-round residents, Block Island feels like a magical escape into a simpler, saltier world."

• Hop on a quick ferry ride and arrive at one of the most scenic islands in New England.
• Relax on nearly empty beaches during the shoulder seasons — serenity at its finest.
• Join the summertime buzz when the island comes alive with events, beach parties, and outdoor dining.
• Explore the southern shore for local shops, cafes, and amenities within walking distance of the beach.

Cost: Free public beaches; ferry ticket prices vary depending on departure location.

Local tips: Rent a bike or moped to explore the island’s coastal bluffs, lighthouses, and wildlife preserves with ease.

Distance: Approx. 12 miles from mainland Rhode Island (Point Judith), 1-hour ferry ride.

How to Get to Block Island: Ferry service is available from Point Judith, Newport, and New London, with seasonal flights also operating from Westerly, RI.

Location: 257 Atlantic Avenue, Westerly, RI 02891

Recommended For: Families, beachgoers of all ages, swimmers, boogie boarders, and accessible recreation seekers.

What we Love: “It’s everything a family beach should be — soft sand, gentle waves, playgrounds, concessions, and accessibility — with enough space for everyone to stretch out and relax.”

• Unwind along half a mile of scenic, sandy shoreline at Misquamicut State Beach.
• Swim or boogie board in clean, calm waters with seasonal lifeguard patrols.
• Enjoy practical amenities like shade gazebos, outdoor showers, concessions, and gift shops.
• Bring the kids to the beachfront playground or access the water using beach wheelchairs.
• Launch a kayak nearby and explore the beautiful Rhode Island coastline.

Cost: Parking fees may apply; entry to the beach is free.

Local tips: Arrive early in the day during summer weekends to secure parking. Look out for seasonal events and live entertainment on-site.

Distance: About 45 miles southwest of Providence, RI; approximately 2.5 hours from Boston.

How to Get to Misquamicut State Beach: Drive via I-95 and Route 78. Train service is also available to Westerly Station, followed by a short taxi or bike ride.

Location: 232 Atlantic Street, Gloucester, MA 01930

Recommended For: Families, sandbar walkers, swimmers, and coastal nature enthusiasts.

What we Love: “Few beaches let you walk hundreds of yards into the ocean — Wingaersheek’s magical sandbar is a rare and beautiful phenomenon.”

• Stroll across the long sandbar that emerges at low tide, perfect for exploring tidal pools and walking far into the bay.
• Relax on soft white sand with stunning views of the Annisquam River and Ipswich Bay.
• Swim in crystal-clear waters with gentle waves ideal for young children.
• Refuel at the concession stand with snacks, drinks, and beach essentials.
• Access convenient amenities including restrooms, outdoor showers, and ample parking.

Cost: Parking fees vary by season and residency; no entry fee.

Local tips: Arrive early on weekends to secure a parking spot. Inflatables are not allowed while lifeguards are on duty. Check tide charts to plan around the sandbar’s best moments.

Distance: About 40 miles northeast of Boston, MA.

How to Get to Wingaersheek Beach: Take Route 128N to Exit 14 (Route 133), then turn onto Concord Street and follow signs to Atlantic Street.

Unique Beaches in the Northeast:

Location: 2 Old Orchard Street, ME 04064

Recommended For: Families, thrill-seekers, beachgoers looking for classic seaside fun, and those craving a festive boardwalk atmosphere.

What we Love: “Seven miles of soft sand, warm smiles, and nostalgic seaside charm — Old Orchard Beach has been delighting visitors for over 170 years.”

• Swim and sunbathe on a 7-mile stretch of golden sand, ideal for soaking up the Maine coast sunshine.
• Try exciting water sports like surf kayaking and jet skiing.
• Stroll the boardwalk and indulge in classic treats like cotton candy, saltwater taffy, and fried dough.
• Play games or catch a show at the historic Old Orchard Pier lined with shops, restaurants, and arcades.
• Relax in a warm and welcoming community that’s been a favorite vacation spot for nearly two centuries.

Cost: Free access; parking fees vary by lot and time of year.

Local tips: Visit early in the day during summer weekends to beat the crowds. Don’t miss the pier at sunset — it’s magical. Some parking areas fill quickly, so consider walking or biking from nearby lodging.

Distance: About 95 miles north of Boston, MA (1.5-hour drive).

How to Get to Old Orchard Beach: Take I-95 North to Exit 36 for I-195 E, then follow signs for Old Orchard Beach. The main entrance is at Old Orchard Street.

Location: 1-239 Lakeside Avenue, Laconia, NH 03246

Recommended For: Families with young children, lake lovers, boaters, and those seeking a fun and social beach day with classic boardwalk entertainment.

What we Love: “Set on the shimmering waters of Lake Winnipesaukee, Weirs Beach brings the charm of a lakeside retreat and the excitement of a bustling boardwalk.”

• Play in the shallow, calm waters perfect for children and family water games.
• Relax on the 700-foot sandy shoreline, ideal for sunbathing and lakeside lounging.
• Explore the classic Weirs Beach boardwalk lined with entertainment venues, arcades, and restaurants.
• Cruise Lake Winnipesaukee on a scenic boat tour or rent a kayak or motorboat from the Winnipesaukee Pier.
• Visit nearby attractions in Laconia, including historical sites and scenic viewpoints.

Cost: Beach entry is free; boat rentals and cruises are individually priced. Metered parking available nearby.

Best time to visit: Early mornings offer quieter beach access.

Local tips: Visit during the week to avoid summer crowds. Don’t miss the Mt. Washington Cruise for stunning lake views. Bring cash for boardwalk snacks and games.

Distance: About 100 miles north of Boston, MA (roughly 2-hour drive).

How to Get to Weirs Beach: From I-93 North, take Exit 23 for NH-104 toward Meredith/New Hampton, then follow NH-104 E and NH-3 S to Lakeside Avenue in Laconia.