The Ultimate Guide To Top 6 Beaches in Boston

Beaches in Boston? Yes, you read that right! We know that’s probably not what you pictured when your first thought of visiting this amazing city came to mind. Usually, our mind goes straight to the Freedom Trail, touring Harvard or Fenway Park when we talk about places to visit in Boston. However, Boston is definitely famous for its incredible history and landmarks, but here’s something else that will surprise you. From the T-accessible Revere Beach to the stunning Crane Beach just an hour away, you have got options you never knew existed. 

So, are you ready to know about these beaches in Boston where you can build sand castles and catch some waves? Then, we have compiled a list of 6 top beaches in Boston MA that you should definitely add to your bucket list. 

1. Revere Beach

When we are talking about the best beaches in Boston, the first beach that comes to our mind is Revere Beach. It holds the title of being the oldest public beach in America, which was established in 1896. Its wide stretch of sand makes it a perfect place to chill with your loved ones or build a sandcastle. All you have to do is hop on the Blue Line to Wonderland Station or Revere Beach Stop and walk a few minutes. Here, you will also find lots of food joints like locals' favourite Kelly’s Roast Beef, which makes one of the best sandwiches in the city and Antonia’s at the Beach for homemade ice cream. 

Whether you want to swim, stroll, sunbathe or just want to witness the amazing view, the 3 miles of coastline accommodate everyone. Here you will get 4 hours of free parking along Revere Boulevard. So, pack your sunscreen and flip-flops to enjoy the beauty of this beach. 

2. Carson Beach

Looking for one of the best beaches in Boston that feels like a quick getaway? Then Carson Beach in South Boston has got you covered. The beach is just a half-mile from the JFK/UMass Red Line Stop, so it is easy to reach even if you are staying downtown. And if you are driving to the beach, then there is a lot of parking space available. Carson Beach stretches with Day Boulevard for half a mile with soft sand and a wide boardwalk. The beach also sits across from Castle Island, giving you the amazing views of Fort Independence and plenty of photo opportunities. 

After sunbathing and swimming, if hunger strikes, you can grab a lobster roll or ice cream from one of the food shacks on the beach. The best part about this beach is that you can enjoy beach volleyball with your friends. If you visit during sunset, then you can enjoy mesmerizing views from the Harborwalk Path. Get your flights to Boston now and enjoy your time at this beach with your family. 

3. Crane Beach 

Crane Beach, just 40-minute drive away in the north of the city, is a perfect coastal escape that you are looking for on your trip to Boston. Or else you can also get on the commuter trail to Ipswich and jump on the shuttle that drops you right at the gate of the beach. Crane Beach is one of the best beaches in Boston MA as there are 4 miles of white sand backed by towering dunes and maritime forest. Here, parking is managed by a day-pass system for which you have to pay around $15 to $18 on weekdays and $20 to $25 on weekends. So we recommend that you plan in advance and book your parking space online. 

Apart from activities like sunbathing and swimming, you can also enjoy 5 miles of sand dune trails that take you to sensitive nesting areas of piping plovers. With the views of Plum Island and Castle Neck, a day trip to Crane Beach is worth it. 

4. Constitution Beach 

If you are looking for beaches in Boston that are equally beautiful and fun, then Constitution Beach in East Boston is the place. It is a man-made, crescent-shaped stretch of sand which opened in 1952 and sits across the waters from the Logan Airport. Because of this, you will have an open seat view of planes landing and taking off. To reach this beach, you have to take the Blue Line to Orient Heights and cross the pedestrian overpass on Bennington Street. And if you are coming here by driving yourself, then there are free parking spaces available. Some of the facilities are modern restrooms, outdoor showers and snack shacks. 

Moreover, the beach also has a large playground where kids can enjoy various outdoor games like tennis, basketball, Frisbee and many more. There are also sheltered benches where you can enjoy picnics. Get your flights to Boston with Experian Airfare and enjoy fishing and kayaking as well. Remember, no alcohol and no pets are allowed on the beach. 

5. Nantasket Beach

Nantasket Beach in Hull is another one of the best beaches in Boston that you should add to your list. The beach is easily accessible by car as it’s just 20 miles south of the city, or you can also take the MBTA’s 714 bus from South Station for about $1.70 one-way. The beach’s shoreline stretches for a mile along the Massachusetts Bay, which is light grey sand, perfect for exploring tide pools or watching a colorful sunrise. This beach got its name “Nantasket” from the Wampanoag word “low-tide place’ which means dramatic tidal range and scenic sandbars.  

From May to Labor Day, daily parking fees are around $15 for Massachusetts residents and $40 for out-of-state residents. The parking fees are collected from 8 am to 4 pm via YODEL or on-site personnel. Beyond sunbathing and swimming, you’ll find playgrounds, athletic fields, beach volleyball courts, and picnic pavilions to keep everyone entertained. Don’t miss the historic Paragon Carousel, open seasonally just across the street. 

6. Wingaersheek Beach

The final spot on our list of beach beaches in Boston MA, is Wingaersheek Beach in West Gloucester. So, pack up your sunhat and explore this seaside escape, which delivers panoramic bay views. By car, the beach is 45 minutes north of the city. If you are planning to visit this beach, then you should know that from May to September, non-resident parking runs from $30 on weekdays and $35 on weekends. However, the space is limited, so make sure you complete your reservations 10 days in advance via Gloucester’s Blinkay system. 

There are restrooms and outdoor showers available, which you can use after a soothing swim. When the sandbar stretches out in the low tide, the beach shines like a crystal moon. Enjoy the sweeping views of the Annisquam River and iconic Eastern Point Lighthouse. Remember, no dogs, no alcohol is allowed on the beach. 

Conclusion 

So, here we are with a compiled list of 6 best beaches in Boston MA where you can enjoy the sandy shores along with activities like swimming, sunbathing and many others. So, what are you waiting for? Book your flights to Boston with Experian Airfare now and explore these coastal areas of the city.

FAQs

What are dog-friendly beaches in Boston?

There are many beaches in Boston MA that are dog-friendly, such as Revere Beach, Carson Beach and Nantasket Beach. Hough’s Beach in Quincy and M Street Beach in South Boston also allow leashed pups when lifeguards are not on duty. If you are carrying your furry friends with you, bring bags to clean up and check local rules. 

Is Duxbury Beach in Boston open to the public?

Yes, Duxbury Beach in Boston is generally open to the public, but parking and access regulations vary. It is open to the public from Memorial Day to Labor Day with a paid parking fee in cash. 

Suggest some of the best beaches in Boston for swimming?

Revere Beach, Carson Beach, and Constitution Beach offer lifeguarded swimming and are also close to the city. If you are looking for a longer coastal trip, then beaches like Crane and Nantasket Beach have clear waters, lifeguards patrolling, and are perfect for swimming.