U.S.

Cape Cod Beach Makes Condé Nast List of Best Mass. Beaches to Visit This Summer

Cape Cod Beach earns national recognition this summer as it lands a spot on Condé Nast Traveler’s exclusive list of the best beaches in Massachusetts. Known for its natural beauty, family-friendly charm, and iconic New England setting, this scenic shoreline offers everything you’d want from a summer escape. As thousands of beachgoers plan their seasonal getaways, this top-ranked destination is sure to be a favorite.

As thousands prepare for their seasonal getaways, this curated list is a must-read for beach lovers, families, and solo travelers looking to make the most of the warm weather. Whether you’re craving adventure or a quiet place to relax, Massachusetts offers something for everyone along its shores.

Here’s a closer look at the Cape Cod standout and the other beaches that made the elite list.

The Cape Cod Star: Coast Guard Beach, Eastham

Coast Guard Beach, located in Eastham on Cape Cod, was featured prominently by Condé Nast for its sweeping ocean views, pristine sand, and rich history. As part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, the beach is consistently ranked among the top in the country.

Why it stands out:

Clean, soft sand perfect for walking barefoot
Stunning sunrises and sunsets over the Atlantic
Lifeguard patrol and restrooms, making it family-friendly
Regular sightings of seals swimming offshore
Bike path access and a shuttle system for parking ease

Condé Nast praised Coast Guard Beach as “a picture-perfect example of Cape Cod’s natural allure—wild, clean, and timeless.”

Condé Nast’s Full List: 7 Best Massachusetts Beaches

Beyond Cape Cod, the Condé Nast editors highlighted a total of seven top beaches across Massachusetts that every summer traveler should consider. Here’s the complete list:

1. Coast Guard Beach – Eastham (Cape Cod)

As noted above, this Cape Cod favorite offers natural beauty, wildlife, and excellent facilities for families and solo travelers alike.

2. Singing Beach – Manchester-by-the-Sea

Famous for its “singing” sand that squeaks when you walk on it, Singing Beach offers a unique auditory experience, clear waters, and a charming nearby village.

3. Crane Beach – Ipswich

A preserved beach managed by The Trustees, Crane Beach is ideal for nature lovers, with hiking trails, sand dunes, and a focus on conservation.

4. Race Point Beach – Provincetown (Cape Cod)

Located at the northern tip of Cape Cod, this beach is known for strong surf, whale sightings, and being sunset central for romantic evenings.

5. Good Harbor Beach – Gloucester

A family-friendly beach with gentle waves, long sandbars at low tide, and views of Salt Island. It’s perfect for sandcastle builders and swimmers alike.

6. Horseneck Beach – Westport

A Southern Massachusetts treasure, Horseneck Beach is wide and breezy, popular with windsurfers and campers, and boasts great facilities.

7. Nantasket Beach – Hull

This South Shore beach is close to Boston and offers easy access, a long promenade, and is great for day trips with kids.

Why Massachusetts Beaches Are Summer Favorites

Massachusetts might not have the tropical waters of the Caribbean, but what it does have is character, charm, and coastal variety. From rocky North Shore hideaways to the sweeping sands of Cape Cod, the state’s beaches combine history, scenery, and recreation in one unforgettable summer experience.

Condé Nast editors noted that Massachusetts beaches remain some of the cleanest and most protected on the East Coast, thanks to conservation efforts by local communities and state programs.

What Travelers Should Know

With more people choosing local and regional travel in recent years, Massachusetts beaches have seen a rise in summer visitors. To make the most of your beach trips this year, here are a few tips:

Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking
Check local beach passes and fees, as some beaches are residents-only during peak hours
Respect wildlife and protected areas, especially in the Cape Cod National Seashore
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen—New England sun can be deceptively strong
Consider biking or shuttles to reduce congestion at popular beaches

What Makes a “Top” Beach, According to Condé Nast?

The travel editors at Condé Nast consider several factors when ranking their top beaches, including:

Cleanliness and water quality
Accessibility and amenities
Natural beauty and uniqueness
Environmental preservation efforts
Overall visitor experience

They also look for beaches that have distinctive character—whether it’s quirky local legends, historical landmarks, or unbeatable photo spots.

Final Thoughts: Your Massachusetts Beach Bucket List Starts Here

Whether you’re a longtime local or planning your first New England summer vacation, this list is a great starting point for your beach-hopping adventures. From Cape Cod’s sweeping coastlines to hidden North Shore gems, Massachusetts has a beach for every mood.

As the weather heats up, pack your beach bag, grab your shades, and head toward the shore. You just might discover your new favorite summer spot.

Muskan Goyal