Crane Beach
Iconic beach with pink-tinged sand, dramatic cliffs, and the historic Castle Hill estate.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, less seaweed
Crane Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, less seaweed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic beach with pink-tinged sand, dramatic cliffs, and the historic Castle Hill estate.
"Breathtaking views and pink sand make this a must-visit, despite the parking fees."
🚗 Expensive Parking Alert
Parking can cost up to $35. Consider Trustees membership for savings.
🌊 Be Wave Aware
Waves can be strong; supervise kids closely. Life guards are on duty.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive Sandy Shoreline
Main beach area
Miles of clean, soft sand perfect for long walks and soaking up the sun.
Rugged Coastal Cliffs
Eastern end of the beach
Dramatic cliffs provide a stunning backdrop and scenic viewpoints.
Castle Hill on Crane Estate
Adjacent to the beach
Historic mansion with Bridgerton vibes, offering tours and beautiful grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access Fees
Beach Conditions & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Expensive Parking Alert
Parking can cost up to $35. Consider Trustees membership for savings.
🌊 Be Wave Aware
Waves can be strong; supervise kids closely. Life guards are on duty.
🌿 Seaweed is Common
Often cleaned daily, but can be present. Mornings are usually better.
🚶♀️ Explore the Estate
Combine beach time with a visit to Castle Hill for history and views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Expensive Parking Alert
Parking can cost up to $35. Consider Trustees membership for savings.
🌊 Be Wave Aware
Waves can be strong; supervise kids closely. Life guards are on duty.
🌿 Seaweed is Common
Often cleaned daily, but can be present. Mornings are usually better.
🚶♀️ Explore the Estate
Combine beach time with a visit to Castle Hill for history and views.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for walking the long beach and exploring the estate grounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Crane Beach's breathtaking beauty, with its expansive pink-tinged sand and dramatic cliffs. The adjacent Castle Hill estate adds historical charm. However, the high parking fees and occasional strong waves and seaweed are noted drawbacks.
"One of the most beautiful beaches of the island, with pink sand. There was a lot of seaweed, however we always had the chance to swim."
Lorenzo Pepe
"Just landed, hopped off the plane and the first thing I did was grab some food (was way too early to check into my Airbnb). After breakfast I still had time to kill, so I ended up here — my first beach after touching down.
Honestly, it was kind of breathtaking. The waves had that calming sound that just hits different when you’re fresh off a flight. The backdrop with the hotel behind the beach looked pretty amazing too. I didn’t swim this time, but I walked the trail along the side of the sea and just took it all in. Not a bad way to start the trip. 🌊✈️"
Kevin Ngadimin
"Love this beach, I've been coming here since i was really young and always a had good day out. Now I'm bringing my kids to play in the waves just like i did. There are a few post about it being dangerous - when the wind is up and coming from the south and the tide is high, the waves can get quite big ( and fun) but because of the shape of the bay, there is not a big drop off. If the older kids stay within the first 4/5 waves and keep feet on the sandy ground they will be ok, younger kids should be supervised with a parent in the water at all times. Each day is different and everyone's risk tolerance is also. When the tide is lower it tends to creat a washing machine effect where wave directions are less predictable. There are life guards on duty, but still watch your kids regardless. Flags mark the most challenging areas. As far as the Sorghum weed is concerned, it does depend on what has been going on with the wind. If you are staying on the west or south coast and the wind has been blowing from the south ( not normal) the following few days at the Crane will be good. In the mornings there is generally less weed because as others have said they do clean it down each morning."
Paul Taylor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Crane Beach is located in Ipswich, MA. It's about a 50-minute drive from Boston and 30 minutes from Salem. You can also take the commuter rail to Ipswich station and then arrange local transport.
Yes, there is ample parking available, but it comes with a fee. The cost can be significant, especially during peak season.
Parking fees can be as high as $35 during peak season. Off-season (November 1 to March 31) fees are lower, around $10.
Yes, you can pay for parking online in advance, which is recommended to save time.
Dogs are generally not allowed on the trails during the main season. They are permitted on the beach only in the off-season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the beach itself is free, but you will need to pay for parking. Access to Castle Hill on Crane Estate may have separate fees or be included with parking.
The beach is generally accessible year-round, but parking and facilities may have seasonal hours. It's best to check the official Trustees website for current hours.
Yes, Crane Beach is suitable for swimming, but be aware of the waves and currents, which can be strong. Life guards are on duty during the summer months.
Yes, Castle Hill on Crane Estate is a major attraction adjacent to the beach. You can take tours of the historic mansion and explore the grounds. 
Yes, if you are a member of The Trustees, you may receive free parking and access benefits.
📸 📸 Photography
The rugged cliffs, the expansive sandy shoreline, and Castle Hill with its Bridgerton-esque architecture offer fantastic photo opportunities. The pink-tinged sand can also add a unique element.
While not explicitly mentioned as the 'best sunset' spot like Aruba's Eagle Beach, the western-facing aspect of the coastline can offer beautiful evening light.
Drone usage policies can vary and are often restricted in protected areas. It's advisable to check with The Trustees for any regulations regarding drone operation.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide a beautiful golden hour glow.
The combination of dramatic cliffs, rolling dunes, and the potential for pink-hued sand creates a unique and picturesque setting.
🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience
You can swim, sunbathe, walk along the extensive shoreline, explore the dunes, and visit Castle Hill on Crane Estate for tours and historical insights.
Restrooms and changing facilities are typically available, especially during the peak season. It's recommended to check the official website for specific amenities.
While beautiful, the waves can be strong. Close supervision is essential for young children. The sandy shores are great for playing.
The sand is described as soft and clean. Some visitors note it can have a pinkish tinge, adding to its unique beauty.
Yes, lifeguards are typically on duty during the summer months to ensure visitor safety.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to be aware of the wave conditions and always keep a close eye on children in the water.
💰 Budget Travelers
To make it more budget-friendly, consider visiting during the off-season (November to March) when parking fees are considerably lower, around $10. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Visiting during the golden hour in the late afternoon or the soft light of early morning will enhance your photography. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Crane Beach and Estate
The waves can be quite lively, making it an exciting spot for those who enjoy playing in the surf, though caution is advised for younger swimmers. Adjacent to the beach is the Castle Hill on Crane Estate, a magnificent historic property managed by The Trustees. This Gilded Age mansion offers a glimpse into a bygone era with its stunning architecture and beautifully maintained grounds. Exploring the estate provides a different kind of experience, with walking trails that wind through dunes and offer panoramic views of the coastline.
+1 It's a perfect complement to a day spent by the sea, blending natural beauty with historical exploration.When planning your visit, be aware that parking fees can be substantial, and it's often recommended to pay online in advance.
For those who frequent the area, becoming a member of The Trustees can offer significant savings and benefits. Navigating Crane Beach: Safety and Conditions
It's crucial for visitors, particularly those with children, to exercise caution. The depth of the water does not drop off sharply, which is a positive for older children who stay within the first few waves. However, constant supervision by a parent is essential for younger children in the water at all times.
Seaweed is another common element at Crane Beach, its presence often dependent on wind patterns. While it can be a concern for some, many reviews mention that the beach is cleaned daily, particularly in the mornings, which can improve the conditions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit