Beaches in Gloucester, MA
Searching for the best beaches in Gloucester, MA to visit on your next day trip or vacation? Well, you are in the right place! Gloucester, Massachusetts, is a classic New England seaside town where history and coastal beauty come together. Having spent time along its shoreline, I’ve found that Gloucester’s beaches are some of the most scenic and welcoming in the region, offering everything from wide sandy stretches to quiet coves perfect for relaxation.
I’ve discovered family-friendly spots with gentle waves, peaceful beaches ideal for long walks, and shores where the sunsets cast a golden glow over Cape Ann. From swimming and sunbathing to exploring tide pools and taking in the ocean views, Gloucester’s beaches have something for everyone. Here are the ones I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Good Harbor Beach: Where the Tide Writes in Loops
I thought that Good Harbor Beach is one of the best beaches in Gloucester when I moved to the East Coast. Why? Good Harbor Beach felt like stepping into one of New England’s most iconic seaside postcards, a wide sweep of soft, white sand opening onto the Atlantic, framed by grassy dunes and the silhouette of Salt Island just offshore. About a 45-minute drive north of Boston, I checked into 4-star Beauport Hotel Gloucester for two days.
At low tide, the beach seemed to stretch endlessly, a shimmering canvas of tide pools and sandbars where kids scampered barefoot and seagulls swooped overhead. It had that quintessential Cape Ann magic — raw coastal beauty paired with a welcoming, family-friendly vibe. The rhythm was classic New England!
- Location: Map & Directions
2. Pavillion Beach: Where the Boats Come Close
Pavilion Beach is small, sandy, and steeped in maritime character. Unlike the broad expanses of Good Harbor or the sweeping dunes of Sandy Neck, this beach sits right in the heart of town, where fishing boats, schooners, and ferries pass close by, reminding you that Gloucester is still very much an active seaport.
Just steps from downtown Gloucester, I wandered onto the compact shoreline where families were gathered for an easy beach day, kids waded in the calm harbor waters, and beachgoers stretched out with the working port as their backdrop. From the sand, I could see Ten Pound Island Lighthouse in the distance, while the famous 4-star Beauport Hotel rose right at the edge of the beach, lending a mix of old seafaring grit and modern seaside elegance.
- Location: Map & Directions
3. Half Moon Beach and Cressy’s Beach
Half Moon Beach is tucked within Stage Fort Park, embraced by rocky outcrops, and shaped in the perfect curve of its name. Unlike the broad sweep of Good Harbor or the bustling harborfront at Pavilion, this little crescent had an intimate, tucked-away atmosphere. It was as if the Atlantic had carved out a quiet hideaway just for those who wander far enough to find it.
Cressy’s Beach felt like one of Cape Ann’s quieter treasures — a rocky, pebbled shoreline tucked into the edge of Stage Fort Park, with sweeping views of Gloucester Harbor. Unlike the soft sands of Good Harbor or the sheltered curve of Half Moon Beach nearby, Cressy’s had a more rugged, natural feel. Its cobbled shoreline and dramatic outlooks gave it a sense of coastal authenticity — the kind of place you come more to admire than to lounge.
- Location: Map & Directions
4. Front Beach: Town Tides and Evening Walks
Front Beach was the perfect “in-town” escape — a sandy crescent just steps from Rockport’s quaint Main Street and Bearskin Neck. Unlike Gloucester’s wide, windswept Good Harbor or the tucked-away Half Moon, this one had a lively, village feel, where the sound of waves mingled with church bells, gallery doors swinging open, and the chatter of visitors wandering the shops nearby. It’s the kind of beach where you can swim in the morning, then stroll a few steps for an ice cream or lobster roll at lunch. It completely won me over!
- Location: Map & Directions
5. Wingaersheek Beach: Silver Sand and Shifting Light
When I visited Wingaersheek Beach this month, I thought I was discovering Cape Ann’s softer, gentler side — a long expanse of pale sand, calm waters, and giant sculpted boulders scattered like art along the shoreline. Compared to the surfy energy of Good Harbor or the rugged charm of Cressy’s, Wingaersheek had a dreamy, family-friendly vibe. At low tide, the beach seemed to stretch endlessly, with sandbars and tidal pools opening up like a natural playground for wandering, wading, and exploring. I came on a sunlit morning and instantly felt the hush of calm waters on Ipswich Bay.
- Location: Map & Directions
Conclusion
After spending time at these incredible spots, I’ve realized that Gloucester’s beaches are amazing experiences that stay with me. Each shoreline brings its own magic, whether it’s the spectacular views, the peaceful atmosphere, or the family-friendly fun. No matter which one I choose, I always leave with salty hair, sandy feet, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of Massachusetts’ coast. For me, Gloucester truly is the absolute best seaside getaway.
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, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
