Squibnocket Beach
A ruggedly beautiful beach on Martha's Vineyard, known for its unique pebble-sand mix and excellent surf.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds & parking hassle
Squibnocket Beach
Best Time
Avoid crowds & parking hassle
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A ruggedly beautiful beach on Martha's Vineyard, known for its unique pebble-sand mix and excellent surf.
"Beautiful rocky beach! It's a great spot to beachcomb, not much of an area to lay a beach blacket down. "
🚗 Sticker or Day Pass Needed
Summer parking is restricted. Arrive before 9 AM or secure a day pass for non-resident access.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Weather can change quickly; expect wind and mist even on sunny days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rocky Shoreline & Beachcombing
Entire beach
Explore a unique mix of sand and smooth pebbles, perfect for finding treasures.
Surfing Waves
Ocean-facing side
Catch impressive waves or watch skilled surfers ride the swells.
Dog-Friendly Mornings
Beach area
Enjoy off-leash playtime with your furry friends before 9 AM.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Summer Parking & Access
Weather & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Sticker or Day Pass Needed
Summer parking is restricted. Arrive before 9 AM or secure a day pass for non-resident access.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Weather can change quickly; expect wind and mist even on sunny days.
Squibnocket or Lucy Vincent Beach? Looking to buy passes for a week in Chilmark later this month. My wife and I will be with our two teenagers. Pics online seem to show Squibnocket as very rocky. Which is better for family relaxation? I do like to enjoy a cigar from time to time. Any worries there?
👟 Footwear for Pebbles
The beach is a mix of sand and smooth pebbles, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
🐶 Leash-Free Mornings
Dogs are welcome off-leash before 9 AM, making it a great spot for early risers with pets.
Surfing Martha’s Vineyard?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Sticker or Day Pass Needed
Summer parking is restricted. Arrive before 9 AM or secure a day pass for non-resident access.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Weather can change quickly; expect wind and mist even on sunny days.
👟 Footwear for Pebbles
The beach is a mix of sand and smooth pebbles, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
🐶 Leash-Free Mornings
Dogs are welcome off-leash before 9 AM, making it a great spot for early risers with pets.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Squibnocket Beach for its unique, rugged beauty with a mix of sand and pebbles, and its excellent surfing waves. However, the seasonal parking restrictions and the pebbly terrain can be drawbacks for some.
"Beautiful rocky beach! It's a great spot to beachcomb, not much of an area to lay a beach blacket down. This is a private beach in season."
W Miller
"Parking in the summer is by sticker only or day pass. One of the best waves to ride on the island. In the morning, the beach is a favorite spot to let your dog off leash and play. Dogs are allowed and non-resident cars can park until 9 AM."
Brandon Gramm
"Great beach. Always different. Sometimes misty, sometimes clearer. Great waves and surfers to watch."
Sandrine Dreeny
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Squibnocket Beach is located on the western end of Martha's Vineyard. Access can be a bit tricky, especially during peak season due to parking restrictions.
Public transport options to Squibnocket Beach are limited. It's best accessed by car, though be mindful of parking regulations.
In summer, parking is typically by sticker only or requires a day pass for non-residents. Arriving before 9 AM allows non-resident cars to park.
Yes, you can drive to Squibnocket Beach, but parking is restricted to sticker holders or day pass purchasers during the summer season.
Squibnocket Beach is near other beautiful coastal areas on Martha's Vineyard. Consider exploring nearby Chilmark or Menemsha Pond.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required for entry, but parking during the summer season requires a sticker or a day pass for non-residents.
The beach itself is generally accessible, but parking regulations apply. Non-resident cars can park until 9 AM.
Squibnocket Beach is private in season, which primarily affects parking access for non-residents.
Day pass costs can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Chilmark town website for the most current pricing.
The 'private in season' designation typically refers to the summer months when parking is most restricted. Specific dates can vary annually.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Squibnocket Beach is known for its unique mix of sand and smooth pebbles, offering a different experience than typical sandy beaches.
Yes, swimming is possible, and the beach is known for its waves, making it popular with surfers.
While beautiful, the rocky terrain might be less ideal for very young children. However, the unique environment can be fascinating.
Beachcombing, watching surfers, and enjoying the rugged coastal scenery are popular activities. Dogs can play off-leash in the morning.
It can get crowded during peak summer days, especially with limited parking. Early mornings or off-season visits are less crowded.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic rocky shoreline, crashing waves, and misty atmosphere offer stunning photographic opportunities. Capture the unique pebble and sand mix.
Early morning light can be magical, especially with mist, while late afternoon offers warm golden hour hues.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastline, and a telephoto lens can focus on surfers. A sturdy tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
The interplay of light on the pebbles, the power of the waves, and the rugged coastal landscape provide endless unique subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While it's not the typical wide-open sandy beach for building sandcastles, the dramatic waves can be exciting to watch. Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid potential crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. The off-leash dog hours before 9 AM can also be a fun spectacle for kids who love animals.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Wave Enthusiasts
Even if you're not surfing, watching the skilled surfers navigate the waves is a captivating experience. The dynamic nature of the ocean here provides a constant spectacle. Remember that conditions can change rapidly, so always check local surf reports and be aware of rip currents.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Squibnocket's Unique Terrain
The ever-changing conditions add to its allure. One day might be misty and dramatic, the next clear and crisp. This variability means each visit to Squibnocket can feel like a new discovery. The waves here are often quite strong, making it a popular destination for surfers looking for a challenge.
For those who appreciate a more natural and less manicured beach experience, Squibnocket offers a raw, untamed beauty. It’s a place to connect with the powerful elements of the ocean and explore the treasures it leaves behind.
Navigating Summer Parking and Access
However, there's a valuable loophole for early birds: non-resident cars can park until 9 AM. This tip is frequently shared by visitors who want to experience the beach without the parking hassle. Arriving before this cutoff allows you to enjoy the beach in relative peace before the main influx of visitors and parking restrictions take full effect.
Beyond the summer, parking is typically much more relaxed. Visiting in the shoulder seasons like October offers a chance to experience the beach's beauty with fewer crowds and easier access, making it a great alternative for those who prefer a quieter visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit