Beaches on the Outer Cape
The Outer Cape is home to some of Cape Cod’s most breathtaking beaches, stretching from Eastham through Wellfleet to Provincetown. Much of the coastline lies within the Cape Cod National Seashore, where towering dunes, wide sandy beaches, scenic walking trails, and protected wildlife create an unforgettable coastal experience. Whether you’re searching for family-friendly bayside beaches with calm, shallow water or dramatic Atlantic-facing shores with rolling surf, the Outer Cape offers something for every beachgoer.
Eastham is known for iconic destinations like Coast Guard Beach and First Encounter Beach, while Wellfleet features pristine ocean beaches, peaceful harbors, and freshwater kettle ponds. At the tip of the Cape, Provincetown offers everything from the calm waters of Herring Cove Beach to the scenic beauty of Race Point Beach, making it a favorite destination for swimming, sunbathing, wildlife watching, and unforgettable sunsets.
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- Chatham, MA
- Provincetown, MA
- Eastham, MA
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Chatham Beaches
Chatham is home to some of Cape Cod’s most scenic beaches, including Lighthouse Beach, Harding’s Beach, Ridgevale Beach, and Cockle Cove Beach. The town offers a variety of oceanfront beaches that are popular for swimming, fishing, shellfishing, and watching seals just offshore. Seasonal beach parking permits and daily parking fees may apply at select beaches during the summer months. For the most current information on beach access, parking regulations, and permits, visit the Town of Chatham Beaches website or contact the Chatham Recreation Department.
• Public beaches in Chatham have seasonal restrictions for dogs. Dogs are generally prohibited on public beaches during the summer season but are permitted during designated off-season months.
• Parking at many Chatham beaches varies by location and may require a fee or pass. Please check current requirements before your visit.
Town of Chatham Beaches & Parking Permits website
Chatham Lighthouse Beach
Largest beach in Chatham with a working lighthouse.
- Chatham, MA
- Public beach
- Restrooms
- Parking
- Lighthouse
- Scenic views
Harding’s Beach
Fully equipped family beach located on Nantucket Sound. Offers lifeguard stations, restrooms, and food trucks.
- Chatham, MA
- Public beach
- Restrooms
- Parking
- Lifeguard
- Concessions
Ridgevale Beach
Beach settled between two creeks and with shallow pools offering calm swimming spots and rental opportunities.
- Chatham, MA
- Public beach
- Restrooms
- Parking
- Lifeguard
- Concessions
Cockle Cove Beach
Calmest swimming beach in Chatham. Highly recommended for families with young children.
- Chatham, MA
- Public beach
- Restrooms
- Parking
Oyster Pond Beach
Saltwater tidal pond located within walking distance of Downtown Chatham.
- Chatham, MA
- Public beach
- Restrooms
- Parking
- Picnic tables
Forest Beach
A quiet alternative to more crowded beaches.
- Chatham, MA
- Public beach
- Parking
Provincetown Beaches
Provincetown is home to some of the most iconic beaches on Cape Cod, offering visitors everything from calm, family-friendly waters to expansive oceanfront shores. Seasonal parking fees and regulations may apply at certain beaches. For the latest information on beach access, parking, and permits, visit the Town of Provincetown beaches website.
• Dogs are permitted on some Provincetown beaches during certain times of the year, but seasonal restrictions apply, especially within the Cape Cod National Seashore. Please check current regulations before bringing your pet.
• Parking at many Provincetown beaches requires a daily fee or parking pass. Please review current requirements before your visit.
Town of Provincetown Beaches website
Herring Cove Beach
Located nearby Race Point Lighthouses. Features walking/biking trails.
- Provincetown, MA
- Public beach
- Parking
- Restrooms
- Lighthouse
Race Point Beach
Popular location for special events and beach campfires.
- Provincetown, MA
- Public beach
- Restrooms
- Parking
Cape Cod National Seashore Park
40 miles of beaches with diverse native species and cultural landscapes.
- Provincetown, MA
- Public beach
- Lifeguards
- Lighthouse
- Walking trails
Eastham Beaches
As the gateway to the Cape Cod National Seashore, Eastham is an ideal destination for exploring miles of protected coastline and scenic natural landscapes. Seasonal parking fees and regulations may apply at select beaches. For the latest information on beach access, parking, and permits, visit the Town of Eastham Beaches website or the Cape Cod National Seashore website.
• Dogs are subject to seasonal restrictions at Eastham beaches, particularly within the Cape Cod National Seashore. Please review current regulations before bringing your pet.
• Parking at many Eastham beaches requires a daily fee, beach sticker, or parking pass. Please check current requirements before your visit.
Town of Eastham website
508-398-2231
Boat Meadow Beach
Small, marshy beach with shallow waters.
- Eastham, MA
- Public beach
- Parking
- Tide pools
Coast Guard Beach
Located on the eastern end of Eastham, MA.
- Eastham, MA
- Public beach
- Dog-friendly
- Restrooms
- Parking
- Picnic tables
First Encounter Beach
Popular destination for exploring sand/tidal flats at low tide.
- Eastham, MA
- Public beach
- Restrooms
- Parking
- Lifeguard
- Concessions
Sunken Meadow Beach
Bayside beach near the Wellfleet town line. Great for stunning sunset views.
- Eastham, MA
- Public beach
- Restrooms
- Parking
Cooks Brook Beach
Located at the end of Steele Road in North Eastham.
- Eastham, MA
- Public beach
- Restrooms
- Parking
Campground Beach
Family-friendly area with quant cottages and a relaxed, small-town feel.
- Eastham, MA
- Public beach
- Restrooms
- Parking
- Campground
Dog-Friendly Beaches on Cape Cod
Helpful guide to which beaches you can bring your furry friends to.
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