How blessed we are to live in gorgeous New England where we can experience all four seasons. Nothing compares to a beautiful New England summer. Lobster rolls, hydrangeas, iced coffee, and sailboats. The aesthetic of a New England summer cannot be topped. Where better to spend the hottest month of the summer than laying out on a lovely beach in close proximity to a seaside restaurant that sells oysters and aperol spritzes.
Massachusetts
- Nauset Beach in Orleans, Cape Cod
I have grown up visiting Nauset Beach my entire life so it is fair to say I have an unreal bias towards this being the best beach on planet Earth. It is a drive-on beach which is great for Jeep or truck drivers. There are insane waves that are fun for body or regular surfing, tons of smooth rocks from being tossed in the waves, and the occasional shark or seal sighting! You are also only a few miles away from one of the best ice cream places on Earth (this isn’t to be taken lightly) The Ice Cream Cafe in Orleans.
- Wingaersheek Beach in Gloucester
Wingaersheek is a gorgeous hidden gem located in Gloucester. The stunning water and little tidal pools make you forget you’re in Massachusetts. It feels like you are on a tropical island! Truly a stunning beach with calm water that you can walk out in forever and lots of little areas to explore and swim.
- Cahoon Hollow Beach in Wellfleet (The Beachcomber)
Probably one of the most iconic Cape beaches, I felt it had to be mentioned. Of course home to the iconic Beachcomber (and its classic hoodies… if you’re from Mass and don’t have one- you’re lying). Long tall dunes and a nice walk downhill to be on the beach all day for an authentic beach experience (there’s literally no service). In addition to the merch shop, there is a delicious restaurant and beach bar. There’s a large assortment of seafood, sandwiches, and platters.
- Duxbury Beach
Another gorgeous expansive beach in Massachusetts! What is better than a beach that is within two miles of a Marylous?
Maine
- Wells Beach
Although I am a Massachusetts beach girl through and through, I decided to give Maine some love because I always enjoy going there once a year. We have grown up going to Wells Beach with my grandparents in Wells!
- Gooch’s Beach in Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport is one of my favorite little coastal towns to visit and walk through all of the coffee shops and little stores. Gooch’s is a perfect little addition to your Kennebunkport trip!
Rhode Island
- Easton’s Beach in Newport
Newport is drop dead gorgeous and makes for the ideal New England day trip! There are so many beaches and areas to discover but my favorite Newport beach is Easton’s. Right next to the Cliff Walk you can soak up the sun and enjoy mild waves. You can also take the cliff walk and experience an overhead view of Easton.
- East Beach
Another absolutely stunning beach in Rhode Island. This iconic beach is home to Taylor Swift’s Rhode Island Beach House. The Last Great American Dynasty from Folklore was inspired by this glorious estate.
There are so many beach options in New England. I will be honest I don’t have much experience with New Hampshire, Connecticut, or New York beaches to be able to write about them or compile them into this list!
Xoxo,
Hannahlane