Beaches in Plymouth, MA
Plymouth’s beaches combine New England’s coastal beauty with a rich sense of history, making them some of the most unique spots along Massachusetts’ shoreline. Having explored beaches both near and far while living there are a local, I’ve found Plymouth’s sandy stretches and rocky shores to be the perfect place to enjoy ocean breezes, scenic views, and the town’s laid-back seaside charm.
I discovered family-friendly beaches with calm waters, quieter spots ideal for a peaceful stroll, and shorelines where the sunsets glow beautifully over Cape Cod Bay. From swimming and kayaking to simply relaxing on the sand, Plymouth’s coast offers something for everyone. Here are the beaches I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Plymouth Long Beach - 10 minutes from Plymouth, MA
This storied coastal town, the symbolic birthplace of New England, carries an irresistible blend of history and seaside charm — from its sandy barrier beaches and sweeping ocean views to its colonial-era landmarks and quaint harborfront.
I arrived here after a scenic 45-minute drive down the South Shore from Boston, following winding coastal roads past cranberry bogs and weathered clapboard houses. Once here, I loved taking in the quintessential Cape Cod atmosphere — salty sea breezes, seagulls wheeling overhead, and the rhythmic crash of waves against the shoreline.
I stayed overnight at Iris Hotel-Cape Cod- Falmouth and made the most of it, strolling Plymouth’s historic waterfront with its mix of seafood shacks and boutiques, visiting the iconic Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower II, and of course spending hours visiting the pristine stretches of Plymouth Long Beach.
- Check prices at Iris Hotel-Cape Cod- Falmouth
- Location: Map & Directions
2. Nantasket Beach Resort - 1 hour from Plymouth, MA
This classic New England seaside escape sits right on the wide, sandy sweep of Nantasket Beach, offering front-row views of the Atlantic and the rhythmic lull of crashing waves.
I thought that Nantasket Beach Resort was one of the best beaches in Plymouth, MA. Why? With its turn-of-the-century boardwalk charm and easygoing coastal vibe, it felt like stepping into a timeless Massachusetts beach town.
I arrived after an easy 40-minute drive south from Boston along the scenic coastline, passing through Quincy and Hull’s winding neighborhoods before the ocean suddenly opened up in front of me. The sight of the long crescent of Nantasket Beach, with its mix of kite flyers, sunbathers, and surfers, immediately set the tone for a quintessential seaside retreat.
I checked into the 3-star Nantasket Beach Resort, where my room had a cozy fireplace and a balcony overlooking the waves, the perfect place to unwind.
- Check prices at Nantasket Beach Resort
- Location: Map & Directions
3. Ellisville Harbor State Park - 20 minutes from Plymouth
Tucked away along a quiet stretch of Cape Cod Bay, Ellisville Harbor State Park felt like one of those hidden New England gems — raw, windswept, and wonderfully wild. With its mix of rolling meadows, coastal forest, salt marsh, and a crescent-shaped beach, it offered a side of Massachusetts that felt untouched and serene.
I drove about 15 minutes south from downtown Plymouth, winding along backroads lined with stone walls and colonial-era homes, before reaching the small gravel lot that marks the entrance. From there, a peaceful half-mile trail led me through fields of wildflowers and tall grasses before opening suddenly to the sight of the broad salt marsh and, beyond it, the shimmering blue of Cape Cod Bay.
- Location: Map & Directions
4. Stephens Field Park in downtown Plymouth, MA
Just a short walk from the heart of downtown Plymouth, Stephen’s Field Park offers a surprisingly peaceful waterside escape. Nestled right along Plymouth Harbor, it felt like a perfect blend of small-town charm and coastal relaxation — a community green space where locals gather, kids play, and the water views stretch out endlessly in a way that completely won me over.
I came here after checking out the historic streets around Main and Court Street, and within minutes I was sitting under a shady tree with a salty breeze drifting in off the harbor. The park is dotted with benches, picnic tables, and a small playground, making it feel inviting for both families and solo travelers. The best part, though, was the wide-open lawn that slopes down to the shoreline, where I lingered watching boats moving across the harbor.
There’s a simplicity to Stephen’s Field Park that I really enjoyed — it’s not a major tourist stop, but it feels like a place where you can slow down and take in the rhythm of the town.
- Location: Map & Directions
5. Nelson Memorial Park - easily walkable from the town center
Just a few blocks from Plymouth’s bustling downtown and harborfront, Nelson Memorial Park felt like a welcoming, family-friendly spot to enjoy the bay at a slower pace. With its mix of open green lawns, shaded picnic areas, and a sandy shoreline that looks out across Plymouth Harbor, it struck me as the kind of place where locals and visitors alike come to unwind.
I found this spot this month after exploring the waterfront, and instantly noticed the cheerful energy — kids running across the playground, families picnicking under the trees, and couples strolling along the walking paths. The park has a broad stretch of grassy space perfect for spreading out a blanket, and at low tide you can walk along the sand and watch small boats bobbing out in the harbor.
It’s not a “big-ticket” attraction, but that’s what I liked most — Nelson Memorial Park feels lived-in and loved, with a strong sense of community. It’s the kind of place that gives you a glimpse of everyday Plymouth life right alongside the postcard harbor views.
- Location: Map & Directions
Conclusion
Together, these seaside stops capture the full spectrum of coastal New England. Each place offered its own distinct rhythm, but all carried that same salt-tinged breeze, ocean horizon, and timeless Cape Cod–South Shore charm that makes this corner of Massachusetts so memorable.
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.
