Nothing says summer like heading to the beach and dipping your toes in the sand, but sometimes the crowds at beaches near Boston can be anything but relaxing.
Here’s a roundup of our favorite secret beaches sure to help you ditch the crowds this summer.
Bound Brook Island Beach — Wellfleet
This is the kind of place the locals like to keep all to themselves.
Situated at the end of a mile-long narrow dirt road, you’ll find a small parking lot that holds less than a dozen cars. Climb uphill about 200 yards, and you’ve made it to the Bound Brook Island Beach.
Truly a rarity on Cape Cod, other beachgoers will be few and far between on this remote beach. It’s about a two-hour drive from Boston, but you’ll save tons of time if you hop on the Provincetown ferry instead.
Beach at Houghton’s Pond — Milton
Who said you needed to head to the coast to find a great beach? Probably your inner New Englander, but fear not, Houghton’s Pond offers sandy beaches and clear (fresh) waters a mere 15 miles from downtown Boston. This family-friendly swimming hole comes equipped with lifeguards, changing areas and ample parking, which we know is a big deal for you Bostonians. And did we mention it’s free?
It’s about a 30-minute drive from Boston, depending on traffic.
Wingaersheek Beach — Gloucester
If you’re looking for your little slice of the tropics in Massachusetts, Wingaersheek is the beach for you.
Framed by large, flat rocks and with incredibly warm, almost crystal-clear waters, heading to Wingaesheek Beach is like stepping through a portal into the tropics.
Just remember, there aren’t any public restrooms here. You might find a port-a-potty, but just be prepared.
It’s about a 45-minute drive from Boston.
Wessagusset Beach — Weymouth
A hidden gem in Weymouth, just south of Boston lies Wessagusset Beach. While you won’t find much in the way of amenities here, that also means you won’t be running into too many people on your coastal retreat. Wessagusset Beach is best at low tide and boasts beautiful sunset views.
It’s about a 30-minute drive from downtown.
Yirrell Beach — Winthrop
If you don’t mind a few meandering planes flying overhead, Yirrell Beach is a great, local option to go stick your toes in the sand. Situated just before Deer Island, the area boasts a relatively expansive and sandy beach a mere eight miles from downtown.
It will take about 20 minutes to drive there.
