Top 10 Beach Towns In Massachusetts And How To Choose The Right One This Summer.

Image Credits- Provincetown Beach

When it comes to summer holidays, beach towns offer the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and fun in the sun. Massachusetts boasts a stunning coastline dotted with charming beach towns, each with its own unique character and attractions. From the quaint cobblestone streets of Nantucket to the lively nightlife of Provincetown, there’s something for everyone.

In this article, we will explore the top ten beach towns in Massachusetts from a summer holiday perspective, highlighting their specialties and attractions that make them stand out as must-visit destinations. So, pack your sunscreen and get ready for a memorable summer getaway!

Here is a list of the top 10 beaches in Massachusetts to visit this summer 2023

Provincetown:

Provincetown is a charming coastal town located on the tip of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, USA. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant art scene, and welcoming LGBTQ+ community. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as whale watching, biking, and hiking in the nearby Cape Cod National Seashore.

Important factors to consider before visiting Provincetown.

• Known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community and culture
• Beautiful beaches such as Herring Cove and Race Point Beach
• Quaint shops and galleries featuring local artists and artisans
• Lively nightlife with a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs
• Historic landmarks such as Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum

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Nantucket:

Nantucket is a charming island located off the coast of Massachusetts, USA. Known for its pristine beaches, quaint cobblestone streets, and picturesque lighthouses, Nantucket is a popular summer destination. The island is steeped in history, with a rich whaling heritage that is celebrated in its museums and historic sites.

Important factors to consider before visiting Nantucket.

• Beautiful beaches such as Surfside Beach and Jetties Beach
• Charming cobblestone streets lined with boutique shops and restaurants
• Historic landmarks such as the Whaling Museum and Brant Point Lighthouse
• Outdoor activities such as biking and kayaking
• Peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway

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Martha’s Vineyard:

Martha’s Vineyard is a beautiful island located off the coast of Massachusetts, USA. It is a popular vacation destination, known for its scenic beaches, quaint towns, and picturesque lighthouses. The island has a rich history, dating back to the 1600s, and is home to several historic landmarks and attractions. Visitors can explore the island’s many charming towns, each with its own unique character, and enjoy the local seafood and other delicious cuisine.

Important factors to consider before visiting Martha’s Vineyard.

• Pristine beaches such as South Beach and Katama Beach
• Charming towns such as Edgartown and Oak Bluffs
• Scenic bike trails such as the Martha’s Vineyard Rail Trail
• Historic landmarks such as the Edgartown Lighthouse and the Flying Horses Carousel
• Variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and golfing

Chatham:

Chatham is a picturesque coastal town located on Cape Cod in Massachusetts, USA. Known for its charming downtown area, beautiful beaches, and rich maritime history, Chatham is a popular vacation destination. The town is home to several historic sites, including the Chatham Lighthouse and the Atwood House Museum, which offer a glimpse into the area’s past. 

Important factors to consider before visiting Chatham.

• Beautiful beaches such as Lighthouse Beach and Harding’s Beach
• Charming Main Street with boutique shops and restaurants
• Historic landmarks such as Chatham Lighthouse and Atwood House Museum
• Scenic bike trails such as the Cape Cod Rail Trail
• Family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of activities for kids

Gloucester:

Gloucester is a historic fishing town located on the coast of Massachusetts, USA. It is the oldest seaport in America and is known for its rich maritime heritage and picturesque harbor. Gloucester is home to several museums and historic sites, including the Gloucester Maritime Museum and the Beauport, Sleeper-McCann House, which offer a glimpse into the area’s past.

Important factors to consider before visiting Gloucester.

• Beautiful beaches such as Good Harbor Beach and Wingaersheek Beach
• Historic landmarks such as Hammond Castle Museum and Gloucester Fishermen’s Memorial
• Scenic rocky cliffs are perfect for hiking and exploring
• Lively arts scene with galleries, studios, and festivals
• Delicious seafood restaurants and local breweries

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Rockport:

Rockport is a charming coastal town located on Cape Ann in Massachusetts, USA. Known for its stunning natural beauty and picturesque downtown area, Rockport is a popular tourist destination. The town is home to several historic sites and landmarks, including the Rockport Art Association and Museum and the Motif No. 1, a famous fishing shack and icon of New England.

Important factors to consider before visiting Rockport.

• The picturesque harbor and beautiful beaches such as Long Beach and Cape Hedge Beach
• The charming downtown area with local shops, art galleries, and restaurants
• Historic landmarks such as Rockport Art Association and Motif No. 1
• Scenic bike trails and hiking trails such as Halibut Point State Park
• Peaceful and relaxing atmosphere perfect for a weekend getaway

Image Credits- Nantasket Beach, Hull MA

Newburyport:

Newburyport is a charming coastal city located in northeastern Massachusetts, USA. Known for its beautiful Federalist-style architecture, vibrant downtown area, and rich maritime history, Newburyport is a popular destination for tourists.

With its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene, Newburyport is the perfect place to experience the charm and character of coastal New England.

Important factors to consider before visiting Newburyport.

• Beautiful beaches such as Plum Island Beach and Salisbury Beach
• Historic landmarks such as the Custom House Maritime Museum and the Firehouse Center for the Arts
• The charming downtown area with boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes
• Scenic boat tours and whale-watching excursions
• Variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking

Hull:

Hull is a picturesque coastal town located on a peninsula in Massachusetts, USA. It is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning ocean views, and charming small-town atmosphere. 

The town is home to several historic sites and landmarks, including the Fort Revere Park and the Paragon Carousel, which dates back to the early 20th century.  Hull is a serene and idyllic destination that is perfect for a relaxing getaway or a fun-filled family vacation.

Important factors to consider before visiting Hull.

• Beautiful beaches such as Nantasket Beach and Hull Beach
• Charming town with historic landmarks such as Fort Revere Park and Paragon Carousel
• Scenic bike trails and hiking trails such as World’s End State Park
• Family-friendly atmosphere with amusement parks, arcades, and water sports
• Delicious seafood restaurants and local breweries

Sandwich:

Sandwich is a historic town located on Cape Cod in Massachusetts, USA. Known for its charming downtown area, beautiful beaches, and rich colonial history, Sandwich is a popular tourist destination. 

Visitors can enjoy exploring the town’s many shops, galleries, and restaurants, which offer a variety of local cuisine and handcrafted goods. With its rich history, natural beauty, and quaint New England charm, Sandwich is the perfect place to experience the best of Cape Cod.

Important factors to consider before visiting Sandwich.

• Beautiful beaches such as Sandwich Town Beach and Sandy Neck Beach
• The charming downtown area with local shops and restaurants
• Historic landmarks such as Sandwich Glass Museum and Hoxie House
• Scenic bike trails and hiking trails such as the Cape Cod Canal Trail
• Family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of activities for kids

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Falmouth:

Falmouth is a picturesque coastal town located on Cape Cod in Massachusetts, USA. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and charming downtown area. The town is home to several historic sites, including the 1790 Dr. Francis Wicks House and the Nobska Lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding area.

Important factors to consider before visiting Falmouth.

• Beautiful beaches such as Old Silver Beach and Surf Drive Beach
• The charming downtown area with local shops, art galleries, and restaurants
• Scenic bike trails and hiking trails such as the Shining Sea Bikeway
• Historic landmarks such as the Nobska Lighthouse and Woods

For international travelers and tourists from other states of the United States, distance from Logan International Airport is an important factor in choosing the right beach location for a holiday. So we have listed them in increasing order of distance and travel time from Boston.

1. Hull – The distance between Boston Logan Airport and Hull is approximately 20 miles or 32 kilometers.
2. Newburyport – The distance between Boston Logan Airport and Newburyport is approximately 35 miles or 56 kilometers.
3. Rockport – The distance between Boston Logan Airport and Rockport is approximately 39 miles or 63 kilometers.
4. Gloucester – The distance between Boston Logan Airport and Gloucester is approximately 40 miles or 64 kilometers.
5. Sandwich – The distance between Boston Logan Airport and Sandwich is approximately 63 miles or 101 kilometers.
6. Falmouth – The distance between Boston Logan Airport and Falmouth is approximately 77 miles or 124 kilometers.
7. Chatham – The distance between Boston Logan Airport and Chatham is approximately 87 miles or 140 kilometers.
8. Martha’s Vineyard – The distance between Boston Logan Airport and Martha’s Vineyard is approximately 97 miles or 156 kilometers, including a ferry ride from Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard.
9. Nantucket – The distance between Boston Logan Airport and Nantucket is approximately 106 miles or 171 kilometers, including a ferry ride from Hyannis to Nantucket.
10. Provincetown – The distance between Boston Logan Airport and Provincetown is approximately 116 miles or 187 kilometers.