View of beach
1 / 14

Cressy's Beach

4.2
·12 reviews·Gloucester, United States

Wingaersheek Beach boasts pristine white sands and clear waters, transforming into a tide pool paradise at low tide. A rocky gem on the Massachusetts ...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays after 4 PM

Avoid crowds & parking fees

CrowdLow
Loading map...
View of beach

Cressy's Beach

Best Time

Weekdays after 4 PM

Avoid crowds & parking fees

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Wingaersheek Beach boasts pristine white sands and clear waters, transforming into a tide pool paradise at low tide. A rocky gem on the Massachusetts coast.

4.2
(12 reviews)

"Extremely rocky, but beautiful nonetheless! A great place for kids to explore."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Reserve Parking Online

Non-residents MUST book parking in advance online. Don't risk being turned away!

⏰ Go on Weekdays

Weekdays, especially after 4 PM, offer fewer crowds and potentially free parking.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tide Pool Wonders

Tide Pool Wonders

Along the shore at low tide

Discover fascinating marine life and unique rock formations in shallow pools left by the receding ocean. Perfect for curious minds!

Expansive White Sands

Expansive White Sands

Main beach area

Sink your toes into soft, white sand stretching out to meet crystal-clear waters. A classic beach day dream come true.

Rocky Nooks & Crannies

Rocky Nooks & Crannies

Shoreline and tidal areas

Explore the unique, rocky landscape offering fun climbing spots for kids and interesting geological features.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Parking & Access

Wingaersheek Beach parking requires online reservations for non-residents, especially during peak season. Arrive early or consider weekdays after 4 PM for potential cost savings and fewer crowds. TikTok+1

Tide Pool Exploration

The beach transforms at low tide, revealing sandbars and tide pools perfect for exploring. Check tide charts before you go to maximize your experience with these natural wonders. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekdays after 4 PM
Why
Avoid crowds & parking fees
Crowd
Low
When
Low tide
Why
Explore tide pools & sandbars
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Enjoy cooler temps & fewer people
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Our new favorite beach! ⛱️🌊 📍 Wingaersheek Beach, Gloucester, MA 📌 save for travel planning If white sands & crystal clear waters are calling your name, make your way to Wingaersheek. At low tide, walk out on the sand bars and explore the tide pools. This is a great spot for kids & families too. 🅿️ Non-residents have to reserve parking online from Memorial Day - Labor Day. 📲 Send this to the peopl...
@daveandjoce
51.3K likes • 673.3K views

🚗 Reserve Parking Online

Non-residents MUST book parking in advance online. Don't risk being turned away! TikTok+1

⏰ Go on Weekdays

Weekdays, especially after 4 PM, offer fewer crowds and potentially free parking. TikTok

🌊 Wingaersheek Beach in Gloucester is truly the gem of Massachusetts + New England. Clean & clear you can wade comfortably through the beautiful rock formations and tide pools. Super soft sand and lots of beach space. I recommend going on a weekday after 4 to avoid crowds and for no cost parking. High tide or low, this beach is perfection. Massachusetts, beach, north shore, wingaersheek, Gloucest...
@girlynewengland
46.1K likes • 710.8K views
☀️ Planning the perfect beach day in Gloucester, MA is a breeze! 🏖️ Reserve your parking spot online, and pack up all your beach essentials—don’t forget the sunblock and plenty of water! 💧 Pick up delicious lunch options on your way like crispy Fish ‘n’ Chips from Turner’s or Italian sandwiches from Virgilio’s 🥖🇮🇹. Ready to hit the sand? Drop your beach day questions below, and we’ll help you make...
@discovergloucester
13.3K likes • 274.2K views

🌊 Check Tide Charts

Low tide is best for exploring tide pools and sandbars. TikTokReddit

🪨 Embrace the Rocks

It's a rocky beach, great for collecting unique stones! Reddit+1

WINGAERSHEEK BEACH GLOUCESTER, MA 🌊🦪🦞 #wingearsheekbeach #gloucesterma #coastalaesthetic #coastalliving #newengland #eastcoastlifestyle #newenglandsummer #eastcoastsummer #eastcoastlifestyle #newenglandsummer #massachusetts #massachusettsbeach #newenglandbeaches #eastcoastmom #coastalmom
@thedubeauabode
11.2K likes • 322.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Reserve Parking Online

Non-residents MUST book parking in advance online. Don't risk being turned away! TikTok+1

⏰ Go on Weekdays

Weekdays, especially after 4 PM, offer fewer crowds and potentially free parking. TikTok

🌊 Check Tide Charts

Low tide is best for exploring tide pools and sandbars. TikTokReddit

🪨 Embrace the Rocks

It's a rocky beach, great for collecting unique stones! Reddit+1

🥪 Pack Snacks & Lunch

Limited food options on-site. Grab local treats like fish & chips beforehand! TikTok

🧊 Water is Chilly!

Even in summer, the water can be quite cold. Be prepared! Reddit

🐚 Beachcombing Treasures

Keep an eye out for sea glass and interesting shells. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.2
(12 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Cressy's Beach for its stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters, especially highlighting the magical tide pools revealed at low tide. While many find it beautiful and great for families, the beach's extremely rocky nature is a recurring point of feedback, with some noting the cold water. Reddit+1

"Very rocky! Like extremely. But beautiful nonetheless!!"

Melissa E

"Did my open water scuba cert here in April.... Slightly chilly and not much to see underwater and the beach is rocky as hell. So much fun."

J Phillips

"The water is cold, frozen 🥶 but is a good place to be with family and kids."

Anny Cruz

What People Like

Beautiful white sand
Clear water
Fascinating tide pools

What People Dislike

Very rocky terrain
Cold water

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cressy's Beach, also known as Wingaersheek Beach, is about an hour's drive from Boston. You can take Route 128 North to Route 133 East, then follow signs for Gloucester. Parking is limited and requires online reservations for non-residents. TikTok

Public transportation options are limited. While there are buses to Gloucester, you'll likely need a taxi or rideshare from the bus stop to the beach. Driving is the most convenient option. TikTok

Parking fees vary. Non-residents typically pay around $30-$35 on weekdays and weekends, respectively, and reservations are often required. Check the official website for current pricing and reservation details. TikTok

For non-residents, parking without a reservation is highly discouraged and often impossible during peak times. It's best to secure your spot online in advance to avoid disappointment. TikTok

Information on specific accessibility features can be limited. It's advisable to contact the local visitor center or beach management directly for the most up-to-date accessibility details. The rocky terrain might pose challenges.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You don't need traditional 'tickets,' but you do need to reserve and pay for parking if you are a non-resident. Residents may have different access rules. TikTok

The beach is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, parking access and facilities may have specific hours, especially during the off-season. It's best to check local listings for exact times. TikTok

To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for weekdays, especially after 4 PM, or during the shoulder seasons (late spring, early fall). Early mornings are also generally less crowded. TikTok

Typically, dogs are not allowed on most Massachusetts beaches during the summer season to maintain cleanliness and safety. Always check local ordinances before bringing pets. TikTok

The primary cost is for parking, which is charged per vehicle. There isn't a separate 'entrance fee' to walk onto the beach itself, but parking is essential for most visitors. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing for sea glass, exploring tide pools at low tide, and building sandcastles. The rocky areas are also fun for climbing. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, it's a great spot for families. The shallow waters at low tide are perfect for little ones to splash in, and the tide pools offer endless discovery. TikTokReddit

Amenities typically include restrooms and sometimes outdoor showers. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swim with caution. TikTok

Yes, you can swim, but be aware that the water is often quite cold, even in summer. There are no lifeguards, so exercise caution. Reddit

Pack sunscreen, hats, plenty of water, towels, beach chairs, snacks, and beach toys. Water shoes can be helpful due to the rocky areas. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are very limited food options directly at the beach. It's highly recommended to bring your own food or grab something from nearby Gloucester before heading over. TikTok

Gloucester offers many dining options. Consider Turner's for fish and chips or Virgilio's for Italian sandwiches, as suggested by locals. TikTok

Yes, picnics are welcome! It's the best way to ensure you have food and drinks readily available during your beach day. TikTok

Alcohol policies can vary by town and beach. It's best to check local regulations for Gloucester to confirm if alcohol is permitted. Generally, it's often restricted on public beaches. TikTok

Gloucester is renowned for its fresh seafood. Many local restaurants offer excellent catches, from casual fish and chips to more upscale dining experiences. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The tide pools, rocky outcrops, and the expansive sandy shores at low tide offer stunning photographic opportunities. The clear water and coastal scenery are picturesque. TikTok+1

Absolutely! The natural beauty, varied textures of sand and rock, and the ocean backdrop make it a popular and beautiful spot for senior portraits. TikTok

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provides the most beautiful, soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the tide pools offer interesting shots regardless of the sun's position. TikTok

Drone usage is often restricted in public areas and near beaches to ensure safety and privacy. Check with local authorities or the Gloucester town website for specific drone regulations. TikTok

Landscape photography, beach portraits, and macro shots of tide pool inhabitants are very popular. The unique rocky formations also lend themselves to dramatic coastal shots. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wingaersheek Beach is a fantastic choice for families. The shallow waters at low tide are perfect for little ones to safely splash and play. TikTokReddit The tide pools offer endless entertainment as kids can discover small sea creatures and explore the rocky formations. TikTokReddit Bringing water shoes is a good idea for navigating the rocky areas. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as on-site food options are limited. TikTok Securing parking in advance is crucial, especially with children in tow, to avoid last-minute stress. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

To make Wingaersheek Beach budget-friendly, aim for weekday visits, especially after 4 PM, as parking fees might be lower or even free during certain times. TikTok Pack your own food and drinks to avoid expensive on-site purchases. TikTok Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) when crowds are smaller and parking might be more accessible. TikTok While parking is a cost, the natural beauty and activities are free once you're there. TikTok

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Wingaersheek Beach offers diverse photographic opportunities, from the dramatic rocky coastline to the serene tide pools at low tide. TikTok+1 The soft light during golden hour (sunrise and sunset) is ideal for capturing stunning coastal landscapes and portraits. TikTok The clear waters and unique geological features make it a sought-after location for senior photoshoots and general coastal aesthetic content. TikTok+1 Be mindful of the rocky terrain when setting up equipment and always check local regulations regarding drone usage. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Rocky Coastline

Cressy's Beach, more commonly known as Wingaersheek Beach, is characterized by its unique and extensive rocky formations. These aren't just obstacles; they are integral to the beach's charm and appeal. At low tide, these rocks create fascinating tide pools teeming with small marine life, offering a natural aquarium experience for visitors. TikTokReddit The nooks and crannies formed by the rocks provide sheltered spots and interesting climbing opportunities, especially for children. Reddit Many visitors enjoy collecting unique rocks and stones as souvenirs, a testament to the beach's geological character. Reddit

While beautiful, the rocky nature means that walking barefoot can be challenging for some. Water shoes are highly recommended, especially for navigating the shoreline and exploring the tide pools. TikTok The rocks also contribute to the beach's distinct aesthetic, making it a popular subject for photographers seeking dramatic coastal landscapes. TikTok Remember to tread carefully and be mindful of slippery surfaces, particularly when the rocks are wet. The interplay of rock, sand, and water creates a dynamic and ever-changing environment that draws visitors back time and again.

Tidal Treasures: The Magic of Low Tide

The true magic of Wingaersheek Beach often reveals itself at low tide. As the ocean recedes, vast sandbars emerge, creating expansive areas to walk and explore. More importantly, the exposed rocky areas transform into vibrant tide pools, miniature ecosystems brimming with life. TikTok+1 Visitors can spend hours discovering small crabs scuttling, anemones clinging to rocks, and various other fascinating sea creatures. TikTok This natural phenomenon makes the beach an educational and engaging destination, particularly for families with curious children. TikTokReddit

Checking the tide charts before your visit is crucial to fully experience this aspect of the beach. Reddit Planning your visit around low tide will allow you to walk out further onto the sandbars and explore the tide pools at their most accessible. The clear, shallow water in these pools makes observation easy and enjoyable. It's a chance to connect with marine nature in a hands-on way, making your beach day memorable and enriching. TikTok

Navigating Parking and Peak Season

Wingaersheek Beach is a popular destination, and managing visitor access, especially during the summer months, is a significant consideration. For non-residents, securing parking is paramount and often requires advance online reservations. TikTok This system is in place to manage the high volume of visitors and ensure a better experience for everyone. Arriving early in the day or opting for weekdays can increase your chances of finding a spot, though reservations are still recommended. TikTok

During peak season, parking fees can be substantial, with costs varying between weekdays and weekends. TikTok Some visitors suggest that visiting after 4 PM on weekdays might offer a reprieve from both crowds and potentially lower parking costs, making it a strategic time to visit. TikTok Understanding these parking dynamics is key to a stress-free visit. It's always wise to check the official beach or town website for the most current information on reservation requirements, fees, and operating hours before you plan your trip. TikTok

You may also like