Best Beaches in Gloucester, MA
Searching for the best beaches in Gloucester, Massachusetts to visit on your next day trip or vacation? Well, you are in the right place! I’ve found that Gloucester’s beaches are some of the most scenic and welcoming when I moved to the East Coast.
This is exactly why I decided to share my favorite coastal stops in Gloucester so that you can use my guide as an inspiration to plan your own vacation. I've enjoyed discovering everything from heaps of sandy stretches to quiet coves perfect for relaxation on our four week road trip, and I hope you like them too.
Good Harbor Beach
I thought that this is one of the best beaches in Gloucester! Heads up, Good Harbor Beach (Google Maps pin) is like stepping into one of New England’s most iconic seaside postcards! In addition, I loved its heaps of soft sand opening onto the Atlantic (framed by heaps of dunes and Salt Island just offshore!). It was about a 45-minute drive north of Boston.
Located just minutes from downtown Gloucester near Route 127, this spectacular stretch of sand feels both accessible and like a hidden gem at the same time.
One of my favorite things about Good Harbor Beach is the stunning view of Salt Island. You can actually walk to it at low tide for a cool adventure we loved!
I think this beach offers comfort to families on vacation because of lifeguards on duty and restrooms nearby.
Heads up, parking can take a little planning. I suggest you arrive early and enjoy the peaceful morning calm.
If you want a place to stay here, 4-star Beauport Hotel Gloucester is very comfortable.
Pavillion Beach
We absolutely love Pavillion Beach, and have been many times. It has a gentle shoreline, and to me, this beach feels like one of Massachusetts’ most underrated coastal gems.
Unlike the broad Good Harbor beach, Pavillion Beach sits right in the heart of town. I loved the way fishing boats, schooners, and ferries passed close by.
Just steps from downtown Gloucester, the compact shoreline was very inviting. We enjoyed an easy beach day on our road trip, followed by a comfortable night at the famous 4-star Beauport Hotel (from $257/night) right at the edge of the beach.
I recommend wearing comfortable shoes and arriving early in the summer, especially on weekends.
Getting to Pavilion Beach is simple. If you’re coming from Boston, the easiest option is taking the MBTA Commuter Rail (Newburyport/Rockport Line) from North Station to Gloucester, which takes about an hour. From the station, Pavilion Beach is roughly a 10-minute walk through downtown. If you’re driving, there’s limited street parking nearby, so timing matters.
Once you’re there, you can swim, sunbathe, or just watch boats come in and out of the harbor. The water is usually calmer than the other Gloucester beaches nearby. We loved that it was so easy to grab coffee, seafood, and ice cream downtown.
What I loved best:
From the sand, I could see the historic Ten Pound Island Lighthouse in the distance, my favorite highlight.
Half Moon Beach
I was easily won over by this beach in Stage Fort Park! I loved that the beach was clearly shaped by a half moon curve that gives it its name. I instantly thought our journey was worth it!
I loved visiting Half Moon Beach during our early years on the East Coast. Getting there from New York City was surprisingly easy by car, usually around four to five hours depending on traffic.
You can enjoy slow walks along the shoreline, collect shells, and listen to the waves crash against the rocks. There are cool coastal trails nearby.
One of my favorite moments was watching the light change over the water near sunset.
Dinner at Seaport Grille capped off the day. I recommend the Classic New England Baked Haddock ($26).
A downside? Parking for non-residents requires reservation in advance, and there are parking fees.
Front Beach
What I loved best:
I love that it’s the kind of beach where I can swim in the morning, then stroll a few steps for a delicious ice cream or a lobster roll at lunch - It completely won me over!
Wingaersheek Beach
Stretching along the Annisquam River with its famously soft white sand, this is one of the most breathtaking beaches on the East Coast.
We came on a sunlit morning on our road trip and instantly fell for the calm waters of Wingaersheek Beach on Ipswich Bay.
My personal highlight was a casual lunch at Woodman’s of Essex where are refueled for lunch.
What I loved best:
For me, Wingaersheek Beach is one of the best beaches in Gloucester, MA because it's so soft and unique!
At low tide, the beach was long. There are heaps of sandbars and tidal pools for wandering, wading, and exploring.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
