Crane Beach
Crane Beach is a 1,234-acre conservation and recreation property located in Ipswich, Massachusetts, immediately north of Cape Ann. It's four miles of sandy beachfront, dunes, and a maritime pitch pine forest.
Crane Beach is hailed as one of the finest beaches and outdoor recreation areas on the East Coast. With its clean, inviting water, miles of shoreline, and mesmerizing views, Crane Beach has been a favorite with the ocean-loving public for generations. Whether you want to take a refreshing plunge, built sand castles, or just soak up the sun, this unparalleled seaside experience is a must visit.
Address: 310 Argilla Rd, Ipswich, MA
Admission: $25 during the week per car; $30 on weekends
Wingaersheek Beach
Wingaersheek Beach has white sands, crystal clear water, and huge rocks that you can climb at low tide. The beach goes on forever when the tide is out and the stays shallow for a long time. There is a long sandbar that you can walk on and swim off of when the tide is right (first picture).
Kids in tow? The tide pool formations are perfect places for them to find snails, tiny fish and shrimp, hermit crabs, and oceanic creatures. There are barely any waves so it's very child friendly.
The beach includes is a concession stand, rest rooms and showers. Packing a cooler with snacks, drinks, and lunch is always a good idea. Gloucester has adopted a Carry In – Carry Out Policy for Good Harbor and Wingaersheek beaches so please be prepared to carry out any trash with you when you leave.
Address: Atlantic Street, Gloucester, MA
Admission: $20 during the week per car; $25 on weekends
Good Harbor
Good Harbor is a beautiful beach with lovely, white sand facing the Atlantic. At low tide, you can walk out to Salt Island - at high tide you can body surf or boogie board on the gentle waves. Pro tip, get there early! Good Harbor is one of the most popular in New England. Even on very hot summer weekends the beach is not overly crowded because of it size. Parking space is limited and this hot spot fills up fast. If you get there later than 11, you'll probably have to wait in a long line to get parking. For the early birds, the gates open at 8:00am.
Lifeguards are on duty Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day from 9:00am to 5:00pm daily. Gloucester has adopted a Carry In – Carry Out Policy for Good Harbor and Wingaersheek beaches so please be prepared to carry out any trash with you when you leave.
Address: Route 127A, Gloucester
Admission: $25 during the week per car; $30 on weekends
Singing Beach
Singing Beach is one of North Shore's most popular beaches and includes a beautiful sandy beach, restrooms and a nice concession stand. Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
The perfect combination of sand, water, scene and seclusion make this beach a gem seldom found. Overall, this is a very relaxing and soothing place. Great for walking and collecting shells, jumping in the waves, or just sitting in the soft sand to watch the surf. Also, per it's name when the sand is dry the beach sings.
Address: Beach Street, Manchester-by-the-Sea
Admission: $5 per person
Let us know what your favorite beach is! Check out the latest beachfront listings here.