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. I've enjoyed discovering everything from wide sandy stretches to quiet coves perfect for relaxation, and I hope you like them too.
1. Good Harbor Beach
I thought that this is one of the best beaches in Gloucester! Why? First off, Good Harbor Beach felt like stepping into one of New England’s most iconic seaside postcards! In addition, I loved its wide sweep of soft, white sand opening onto the Atlantic ( framed by dunes and Salt Island just offshore!). About a 45-minute drive north of Boston, I checked into 4-star Beauport Hotel Gloucester for two relaxing days.
I loved how at low tide, the beach seemed to stretch endlessly, with tide pools and sandbars where we loved walking barefoot. It had that quintessential Cape Ann magic with raw coastal beauty paired with a family-friendly vibe.
What I loved best:
The rhythm - it was classic New England (of course!), my favorite highlight.
2. Pavillion Beach
Stretching along Gloucester Harbor with a clear, gentle shoreline, this beach feels like one of Massachusetts’ most underrated coastal gems. Unlike the broad expanses of Good Harbor, this beach sits right in the heart of town. I loved the way fishing boats, schooners, and ferries passed close by, reminding us that Gloucester is still very much an active seaport!
Just steps from downtown Gloucester, I discovered the compact shoreline where we enjoyed an easy beach day, followed by a comfortable night at the famous 4-star Beauport Hotel (from $257/night) right at the edge of the beach.
What I loved best:
From the sand, I could see the historic Ten Pound Island Lighthouse in the distance, my favorite highlight.
3. Half Moon Beach
I was easily won over by this beach tucked within Stage Fort Park! I loved that tThe beach was clearly shaped by a half moon curve that gives it its name!
What I loved best:
Unlike the broad sweep of Good Harbor or the bustling harborfront at Pavilion, this little crescent had an intimate, tucked-away atmosphere, my personal highlight. It was as if the Atlantic had carved out a quiet hideaway just for my husband, son and me.
A downside? Parking for non-residents requires reservation in advance, and there are parking fees.
4. Front Beach
Tucked along Rockport’s shoreline, this feels like one of the most inviting and perfectly sized beaches on Cape Ann. In addition, I thought that it was the perfect “in-town” escape — a sandy crescent just steps from Rockport’s quaint Main Street.
Unlike Gloucester’s wide, windswept Good Harbor or the tucked-away Half Moon, this one had a lively, village feel. The sound of waves mingled with church bells, gallery doors swinging open, and the chatter of visitors exploring the shops nearby.
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!
5. Wingaersheek Beach
Stretching along the Annisquam River with its famously soft white sand, this is one of the most breathtaking coastal spots I’ve visited in Massachusetts. When I visited 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. I came on a sunlit morning and instantly felt the hush of calm waters on Ipswich Bay.
- Location: In Gloucester, Massachusetts, along the Annisquam River and Ipswich Bay on Cape Ann
- Map & Directions
- Wingaersheek Beach website
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 seemed to stretch endlessly, with sandbars and tidal pools opening up like a natural playground 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, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
