Want the inside scoop on the best beaches near Boston, Massachusetts? During the summer months, I love photographing at the beach! The open space ensures we can always find a spot with fewer people or even no crowds. If you’re a couple looking for the perfect location for your engagement, couples session, or maternity session, the North Shore offers some fantastic beach options that I believe are some of the best beaches near Boston, Massachusetts!
1. Wingaersheek Beach
Wingaersheek Beach is known for its fine white sand and calm, clear waters, and lighthouse views. This beach stretches for about a mile with rock formations and boulders. The shallow waters are family-friendly, and the beach is backed by grassy dunes and marshlands.
Location: Gloucester, Massachusetts, along the Annisquam River on Cape Ann’s north shore, accessible via Route 133 or Route 128.
Parking: Available in a nearby lot but fills quickly during peak summer months. Fees range from $30 to $35 for non-residents; residents can buy seasonal stickers. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Beach Orientation: Facing west, this beach is ideal for sunsets, perfect location for stunning evening views over the water.
Tide Information: Low tide reveals extensive sandbars and tidal pools, perfect for exploring and safe for children. High tide narrows the beach but is still great for swimming and sunbathing.
2. Good Harbor Beach
Good Harbor Beach has delicate white sand, clear blue waters, and grassy dunes. It’s family-friendly with lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and a snack bar!
Location: Good Harbor Beach is in Gloucester, Massachusetts, at Thatcher Road (Route 127A) and Witham Street.
Parking: Parking is available in a large lot near the beach, filling up early during peak summer months. Fees are $30-$35 for non-residents, with discounted rates for residents.
Beach Orientation: Facing east, Good Harbor Beach is perfect for beautiful sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean.
Tide Information: Low tide reveals a wide sandy beach and a sandbar connecting to Salt Island, ideal for exploring. High tide reduces the beach area but is still great for swimming and relaxing.
3. Nahant Beach
Nahant Beach has a long, sandy shoreline backed by low dunes and a seawall. The calm, clear water makes it family-friendly. Want to do a fun activity during your photography session? Activities like beach volleyball, windsurfing, and kite flying are popular!
Location: Nahant Beach is in Nahant, Massachusetts, on the southern shore of the Nahant peninsula, accessible via Nahant Road from Lynn.
Parking: Parking is available at the Nahant Beach Reservation lot, with fees ranging from $10 to $20. The lot fills up quickly during peak summer times, so early arrival is recommended.
Beach Orientation: Facing east, Nahant Beach is ideal for sunrise views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Tide Information: Low tide reveals a wide sandy beach, perfect for walking and exploring tidal pools. High tide narrows the beach but still allows for swimming and sunbathing.
4. Plum Island
Plum Island has long stretches of sandy beaches, dunes, and salt marshes. The natural, undeveloped landscape is a peaceful environment. This area is popular for birdwatching in the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. So, if that’s your thing too, definitely visit after your engagement session or add that to your day with me!
Location: Plum Island is off the coast of northeastern Massachusetts, near Newburyport, accessible via the Plum Island Turnpike from Route 1A.
Parking: Parking is available in lots at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Sandy Point State Reservation, and local beaches. Fees vary, and lots fill quickly during peak times, so definitely try to visit early to secure parking.
Beach Orientation: Facing east, Plum Island is ideal for sunrise views. The views are absolutely breathtaking over the Atlantic Ocean.
Tide Information: Low tide reveals broad sandy areas and tidal pools for exploring. High tide narrows the beach but remains suitable for swimming and sunbathing. So, if you are wanting more sandy areas, plan for a low tide visit.
Kind Words from a Recent Maternity Session at Plum Island
“Last weekend we had our maternity photos done by Paula at the beach. When I tell you, everything about the experience was perfect, we mean it! Paula was able to take our vision and make it come to life! She gave us very clear instructions on how to position ourselves and how to pose. Paula even gave us some options towards the end for input on any specifics we wanted to include in the shoot.”
“She provided a pop-up tent so we could change right on the beach, minimizing the amount of walking I would have to do. She made the experience so much fun and directed us in a way that was comfortable and allowed us to be ourselves. When we saw the sneak peeks, we couldn’t believe how beautiful they came out. They were so much better than we even imagined! I can’t wait for more opportunities to have photos done by Paula! We are so very grateful!” – Olivia + Luis
Don’t see your favorite beach near Boston on this list? I’d love to photograph at a beach that holds special meaning for you. Some I’m eager to visit include Singing Beach, Crane Beach, or any beach in Cape Cod.
New England Wedding and Elopement Photographer | Paula Milena
For the romantics who cherish genuine, unscripted moments and are deeply in love. Located in Boston, Massachusetts, I’m passionate about capturing your unique story just as you envision it. You deserve a photographer who’s as enthusiastic about your day as you are. Think we’d make a great team? Reach out through my contact form to reserve your date!
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