Looking for a Hidden Beach This Summer? Here Are 3 Under-the-Radar Spots in Massachusetts

by Molly Armando

One of the best parts of summer on the South Coast is how close we are to the water, but if you’ve ever tried to park at Horseneck on a July weekend, you know not every beach is exactly peaceful and quiet.

That’s why I loved a recent roundup from Frugal Flyer listing 95 of the best “secret beaches” in the U.S., because three of them are right here in Massachusetts. According to their national survey of over 3,000 voters, these lesser-known spots offer the perfect mix of beauty, solitude, and that elusive locals-only feel.

If you're in the mood to explore somewhere new this summer, these three beaches might be worth the detour.

1. Madaket Beach, Nantucket
If you’re already heading to Nantucket or dreaming about it, Madaket Beach is a perfect spot to catch one of the island’s famous sunsets. It’s tucked away on the western edge of Nantucket and offers soft sand, ocean breezes, and a much quieter scene than some of the better-known beaches. There’s not much in the way of amenities or parking, but if your goal is a quiet end-of-day picnic with a view, this one’s hard to beat.

Increasing clouds with showers seen Tuesday afternoon from Madaket Beach.

2. Bound Brook Island Beach, Wellfleet
Cape Cod has no shortage of beautiful spots, but Bound Brook Island Beach is truly one of those places that feels like a secret. Down a dirt road and surrounded by sweeping dunes, it’s located in the northwest corner of Wellfleet, bordering Truro. It’s not the easiest place to find, but that’s exactly what keeps it peaceful. Pack a picnic, bring someone you love, and don’t be surprised if you have the beach mostly to yourself.

WELLFLEET -- The path back to Bound Brook Island from the beach.

3. Plum Island Beach, Newburyport
If you’re up for a North Shore day trip, Plum Island Beach offers a little bit of everything: fishing, bird-watching, kayaking, and one seriously stunning stretch of sand. It borders the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, which adds a whole new layer of natural beauty, and if you’re anything like me, the promise of good restaurants nearby never hurts either.

A late summer hike along the woodlands of Plum Island Beach in Newburyport.

Before You Pack the Cooler
I’m a big believer that some of the best summer memories happen in the quiet corners, on beaches you find by accident, on dirt roads that take a few tries, in places where you can breathe a little deeper. These three beaches might not be right around the corner, but they’re close enough to plan a little getaway and worth keeping in your back pocket if you’re looking to switch things up this season.

If you end up visiting one, I’d love to hear what you think. And if you're still searching for the right place to plant roots by the water, secret or not, you know where to find me.

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