The best beaches in Boston

Hey, traveler! Thinking about surfing or just looking to relax? Want to know which beaches in Boston are worth visiting? In this blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know. Spoiler alert: Revere Beach takes the top spot as one of the most beautiful and must-see beaches. Keep reading to find out more. Let the adventure begin!

Revere Beach: One of the first public beaches in Boston

Boston is surrounded by stunning beaches that offer the perfect escape to connect with nature and unwind.

Just minutes north of the city center, you’ll find Revere Beach, known as one of the first public beaches in the United States. Stretching over 5 kilometers with soft white sand, it’s ideal for a peaceful walk along the ocean or a fun-filled day in the sun. The beach features picnic areas, playgrounds, and a wide variety of restaurants and shops along the main strip. You can also enjoy surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Revere Beach is also famous for its International Sand Sculpting Festival held every summer, attracting renowned artists from around the world, making it one of the largest events on the East Coast.

How to get to Revere Beach

If you choose to drive, take advantage of renting a car with Viajemos for easier and faster travel. It’s a convenient option that comes with exclusive benefits like Unlimited Mileage and Free Travel Insurance (available for international visitors). Once you arrive at Revere Beach, you’ll find free parking available for up to 4 hours along the Boulevard. On the other hand, if you prefer public transportation, the subway ride takes about 20 minutes from downtown Boston. Just take the Blue Line to Wonderland, and it will drop you off right at the beach. Revere Beach is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Discover the history of Castle Island Beach

Castle Island, once truly an island, is located in South Boston along the city’s harbor. In 1928, it was connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land, officially becoming part of the coast. Fortified since 1634, it’s now a 22-acre recreational area that’s home to historic Fort Independence. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, Castle Island is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Activities

• Biking
• Educational programs
• Fishing
• Running and walking
• Swimming

Discover Carson Beach: Known for its refreshing waters

Located in South Boston, Carson Beach is a wide and beautiful shoreline that draws many visitors during the summer. With its soft, fine sand and refreshing waters, it’s the perfect place to soak up the sun and go for a swim. The beach also features a public pool with free entry for all visitors. Plus, it offers stunning views of the city skyline and nearby attractions like the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area.

What to do in this area

• If you enjoy staying active, take advantage of the trails along the beach for running or biking. It’s also a great spot for hosting birthday parties with friends and family, and yes, you can even bring your pet along.
• You can enjoy a variety of sports activities, such as playing on the volleyball courts or spending time in the picnic areas.
• In addition to swimming and sunbathing, you can also go snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and sea kayaking. During the season, a lifeguard is on duty to ensure safety at the beach, which is especially important to keep in mind as the low tide can be quite steep.

Constitution Beach

If you’re looking to combine a beach day with a touch of culture, we recommend visiting a beach in East Boston. Along with beautiful views of Boston Harbor, this shoreline is close to the historic USS Constitution Museum. After a fun day of building sandcastles and swimming, a visit to this exhibit can be the perfect educational experience for the whole family.

Location and hours

• 799 Bennington Street East Boston, MA 02128.
• Open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Explore Nantasket Beach in Boston

This is another one of Boston’s best beaches, located just 30 minutes from downtown. It’s known for its wide waters, golden sand, and breathtaking ocean views. You can enjoy activities like swimming, sunbathing, fishing off the pier, or taking a relaxing bike ride along the beachside boulevard. Around Nantasket Beach, you’ll also find a great variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions, like the historic Paragon Carousel and the Paragon Boardwalk. Don’t miss the chance to visit this wonderful area!

Fun facts

• It’s one of Boston’s private beaches, located in the northern part of the city and managed by the town of Hull. Visitors are not allowed to park unless they’re guests of a resident. Additionally, the area serves as a habitat for government-protected species.
• This shoreline features fine, light gray sand and is considered one of the highest-rated beaches in the Greater Boston area.
• The name “Nantasket” comes from the Wampanoag language and translates to “low-tide place” or “where the tides meet,” as the area was originally an island connected to the mainland by a sandbar that only appeared during low tide.

Discover Crane Beach

Located north of Cape Ann, Crane Beach spans 1,234 acres dedicated to both recreation and conservation. Its exact address is 310 Argilla Road, Ipswich, MA 01938. With its rolling dunes and coastal forests, this destination offers the perfect setting for a refreshing swim, playing in the sand, or simply relaxing under the sun. This one-of-a-kind coastal experience has created fun and lasting memories for generations.

Did you know?

• More than 350,000 people visit Crane Beach each year, making it a national leader in the conservation of natural habitats and wildlife.
• Crane Beach is recognized as one of the most important nesting sites in the world for the piping plover, an endangered bird that nearly went extinct in the 19th century due to egg and feather hunting.
• Nationally, it’s been praised for its successful shorebird protection program. During your visit, be sure to avoid fenced-off nesting areas and the wrack line, where birds feed and take shelter.

Singing Beach: Discover one of the best private beaches near Boston

Located 45 minutes north of the city, this coastal gem invites you to unwind in a peaceful, serene setting. Famous for the unique sound the sand makes when you walk on it, Singing Beach also offers crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery. Spend a perfect day swimming in the ocean, building sandcastles, or simply soaking up the sun. The beach also provides convenient amenities like showers, restrooms, and a snack bar to make your visit even more enjoyable.

Things to keep in mind

• To enter this beach, there is an admission fee starting at $10 USD. Visitors aged 65 and older can enter for free.
• During peak season, parking usually requires a daily fee. Residents of Manchester-by-the-Sea can get parking permits, while non-residents typically pay around $30 USD per day.
• You’re allowed to bring your pet, but only during the off-season, and you must clean up after them. This is a peaceful beach, perfect for relaxing and taking a short getaway. Note that alcohol, surfing, diving, and bonfires are not permitted.

Sandy Beach: Enjoy a peaceful spot perfect for surfing in Boston

This beach is one of the designated surfing areas near Boston, so if you’re into water sports, bring your surfboard and take full advantage of everything this spot has to offer.

Located in Cohasset, about a 40-minute drive from downtown Boston, Sandy Beach is a charming and peaceful spot that offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. With its soft golden sand and calm waters, it’s the perfect place to spend a laid-back beach day. The area features picnic facilities, tennis and volleyball courts, and play areas for kids. You can also explore nearby trails, take scenic walks, and enjoy breathtaking coastal views.

Tips for visiting the beaches in and around Boston

Here are some helpful recommendations to make the most of your getaway in and around Boston’s beaches:

• Rent a car so you can travel more comfortably without relying on public transportation.
• Check beach hours or specific destination schedules in advance to avoid any surprises.
• Look into parking options ahead of time if you’re driving. Some places charge for parking, and spots can be limited.
• Avoid leaving trash, especially pizza boxes, on the ground. It’s essential to take care of the beach and keep it clean, so make sure to pick up everything before you leave.
• Pay attention to beach signs and follow their instructions. Some will let you know what activities are allowed and point out safe areas for swimming.
• If you’re bringing your pet, be sure to check the time of year you plan to visit, some beaches don’t allow pets during certain months.
• Wear comfortable clothing, sunglasses, and/or a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and stay well hydrated.

Location of the best beaches in Boston

Frequently Asked Questions

He who wants to travel happily must travel light.

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

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We hope this information has been helpful and that you get to enjoy the best beaches in Boston, along with the many activities the city has to offer. See you next time!