Think you need a car to enjoy the best beaches in Massachusetts? Think again!
From the sandy shores of Plymouth to the picturesque coastline of Cape Ann, some of the state’s most beautiful beaches are accessible on the Commuter Rail year-round, making them perfect for a stress-free summer day trip (or winter if that’s your vibe!).
At Keolis massAdventures, we’re passionate about helping travelers discover destinations beyond Boston without the hassle of driving, traffic, or parking. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day, a charming coastal town, or an outdoor adventure, these seven beaches deserve a spot on your summer bucket list.
Read until the end to find out what the best beach in New England is.
Hear the Songs of Singing Beach
Named for the unique sound the sand makes beneath your feet, Singing Beach is one of the North Shore’s hidden gems. Its soft sand, crystal-clear water, and beautiful setting make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Manchester by the Sea is also home to the filming location of the movie by the same name.
Getting There by Commuter Rail:
Take the Rockport Line to Manchester Station. The beach is approximately a 15-minute scenic walk on flat ground from the station.
More Things to do In Manchester-By-The-Sea
This is one of the easiest and most scenic beach day trips from Boston. If you’re looking for more things to do in Manchester by the Sea you can also visit iconic film locations from some of our favorite films including The Proposal with Sandra Bullock, and the movie named after the town, Manchester by the Sea.
Visit Travel + Leisure’s Favorite Beach
Known for its soft white sand and family-friendly atmosphere, and a Travel + Leisure Favorite, Good Harbor Beach is a North Shore favorite. At low tide, visitors can walk across to Salt Island and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Getting There by Commuter Rail:
Take the Rockport Line to Gloucester Station. From there its about 2.5 miles from the Gloucester train station it is walkable on a nice day or, you can get a rideshare service,
More Things to do in Gloucester
Downtown Gloucester is a bustling waterfront village with endless activities that don’t require a car, from Kayaking to Ten Pound Island, to visiting the Iconic Hammond Castle Museum right outside downtown, there’s more to do than just sunbathe that will keep you coming back throughout the Summer and even the off season!
Spend the Day in Rockport at Front Beach
Located just steps from Rockport’s charming and historic downtown, Front Beach offers the perfect blend of seaside relaxation and classic New England coastal charm. This small sandy beach overlooks picturesque Rockport Harbor and provides beautiful views of fishing boats, lobster traps, and the granite coastline that has inspired artists for generations.
Getting There by Commuter Rail:
Take the Rockport Line to Rockport Station. The beach is just a short, 10 minute walk away.
More Things to do in Rockport:
Unlike many larger beaches, Front Beach allows visitors to easily combine a beach day with exploring one of Massachusetts’ most beloved seaside towns. Spend the morning relaxing by the water, then wander through Rockport’s walkable downtown filled with art galleries, local boutiques, ice cream shops, and waterfront restaurants. The town’s vibrant arts community, colorful harbor, and laid-back atmosphere make it easy to spend an entire day exploring.
Just a short walk away, visitors can stroll along Bearskin Neck, browse local artisan shops, photograph the iconic Motif No. 1, and enjoy fresh seafood while overlooking the harbor. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach escape, a scenic coastal town, or a classic New England day trip, Rockport offers the best of all three.
Head Down to Plymouth’s Long Beach
Plymouth’s Long Beach offers three miles of sandy shoreline, beautiful views of Plymouth Bay, and a quieter atmosphere than many of the state’s more crowded beaches. It’s the perfect destination for travelers looking to combine a beach day with history, waterfront dining, and exploring one of Massachusetts’ most iconic coastal towns.
After your beach visit, spend time strolling Plymouth’s waterfront, visiting Plymouth Rock, touring the Mayflower II, or grabbing fresh seafood overlooking the harbor.
Getting There by Commuter Rail:
Take the Kingston Line to the Kingston Station and. continue into Plymouth. Long beach is approx. 8 miles away from the Kingston Station.
More Things to do In Plymouth:
Plymouth offers much more than a beach day. After relaxing at Long Beach, explore the historic waterfront, visit Plymouth Rock, tour the, or, for the ultimate hassle-free visit to Plymouth grab a ride with Keolis massAdventures and step back in time at Plimoth Patuxet Museums and Mayflower II
Take a stroll along the harbor, walk The Jetty for beautiful views of Plymouth Bay, browse locally owned shops, or enjoy fresh seafood overlooking the water. History buffs, beachgoers, and food lovers alike will find plenty to enjoy in this charming coastal town.
Experience the Blue Waters of Wingaersheek Beach
You’ve probably come across this beach on Instagram or Tik Tok. It’s famous for its expansive sandbars and shallow clear blue water at low tide that resembles something in the Caribbean. Wingaersheek Beach is a favorite among families. While it’s the furthest from a Commuter Rail Stop, the calm waters and beautiful views of Ipswich Bay make it one of the most unique beaches on the North Shore.
Getting There by Commuter Rail:
Take the Newburyport/Rockport Line to Gloucester Station. From there its about 7 miles from the Gloucester train station it is walkable on a nice day or, you can get a rideshare service,
Reconnect with Nature on Plum Island
For travelers looking to escape the crowds, Plum Island Beach is perfect for a laid-back beach day to reconnect with nature. The island offers miles of sandy shoreline, incredible birdwatching opportunities, and access to the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. It’s one of Massachusetts’ best destinations for nature lovers.
Getting There by Commuter Rail:
Take the Newburyport Line to Newburyport Station and continue to Plum Island Beach 5 miles away via local public transportation or Rideshare.
More Things to Do Near Plum Island & Newburyport:
Plum Island offers much more than a relaxing beach day. Explore the nearby Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, known for its scenic trails, wildlife viewing, and coastal landscapes, or head into Newburyport to enjoy waterfront dining at our favorite, The Black Cow, boutique shopping, art galleries, and beautiful harbor views.
Take a stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy fresh seafood overlooking the Merrimack River, or visit Maudslay State Park for peaceful walking trails and historic estate ruins. Whether you’re looking for nature, shopping, or coastal charm, there’s plenty to discover beyond the beach.
Experience the Best Beach in New England
We saved the best for last! Consistently ranked among the best beaches in New England by USA Today, Crane Beach in Ipswich, MA offers four miles of pristine shoreline, rolling dunes, and spectacular coastal scenery. Beyond the beach itself, visitors can explore hiking trails and sand dunes, through protected wildlife habitats and enjoy some of the most scenic ocean views in Massachusetts.
Getting There by Commuter Rail:
Take the Newburyport/Rockport Line to Ipswich Station, from there Crane Beach is 5 miles away. You can hop on a Keolis massAdventures day trip to help connect you to the Crane Beach or, the Ipswich/ Essex Explorer which runs seasonally, memorial day to Labor Day.
More Things to do at Crane Estate in Ipswich:
A visit to Crane Beach can easily become a full day adventure. Beyond relaxing on the sand, explore miles of scenic walking trails through coastal dunes, maritime forests, and protected wildlife habitats. The beach’s extensive dune system offers some of the most spectacular ocean views in New England and is a favorite spot for birdwatching and nature photography.
Just minutes away, the historic Castle Hill on the Crane Estate offers even more to explore. Tour the grand mansion on the popular Guest of the Cranes Tour, discover hidden corners of the estate on a guided nature walk, or enjoy breathtaking views from the property’s famous Grand Allée stretching toward the Atlantic Ocean.
For a more active adventure, paddle through the salt marshes and waterways of Essex Bay on a guided kayaking tour, where you may spot herons, egrets, and other coastal wildlife. After your adventure, head into downtown Ipswich for fresh seafood, a classic North Shore roast beef sandwich, or a stop at the famous The Clam Box of Ipswich before returning to Boston.
Skip the Traffic and Let the Train Do the Driving
One of the biggest challenges of visiting Massachusetts beaches during the summer is traffic and parking. Popular destinations like Crane Beach, Gloucester, Rockport, Plymouth, and Hull often fill parking lots early on busy weekends.
That’s why taking the Commuter Rail is one of the easiest ways to enjoy a beach day. Instead of sitting in traffic, you can relax, enjoy the scenery, and start your vacation the moment you leave Boston.
Several Keolis massAdventures experiences even include transportation from the station to destinations that are otherwise difficult to reach without a car, making it easier than ever to discover Massachusetts beyond the city.
