
Half Moon Beach
A charming, crescent-shaped beach in Stage Fort Park, known for its calm waters, rocky formations, and scenic sunset views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Half Moon Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, crescent-shaped beach in Stage Fort Park, known for its calm waters, rocky formations, and scenic sunset views.
"A true hidden gem on the North Shore, perfect for a relaxing beach day with family."

🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early or visit on weekdays to secure parking. Some recommend after 4 PM for free entry. :car:
👟 Footwear for Rocks
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the rocky areas and tide pools. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tide Pool Exploration
Low tide
Discover miniature marine worlds teeming with life as the tide recedes, revealing fascinating creatures.

Scenic Rock Formations
Climb and explore the unique rocky outcrops that frame the beach, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.

Sunset Views
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the tranquil waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Parking
Embrace the Rocky Landscape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early or visit on weekdays to secure parking. Some recommend after 4 PM for free entry. :car:
👟 Footwear for Rocks
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the rocky areas and tide pools. :athletic_shoe:
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
Great for kids with calm waters and nearby picnic spots. :familymanwomangirlboy:
📸 Sunset Photo Ops
The beach offers stunning backdrops for memorable sunset photos. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive early or visit on weekdays to secure parking. Some recommend after 4 PM for free entry. :car:
👟 Footwear for Rocks
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the rocky areas and tide pools. :athletic_shoe:
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
Great for kids with calm waters and nearby picnic spots. :familymanwomangirlboy:
📸 Sunset Photo Ops
The beach offers stunning backdrops for memorable sunset photos. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Half Moon Beach for its charming, secluded feel and calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming and family fun. The scenic rocky formations and tide pools are highlights, offering exploration and great photo opportunities, especially at sunset. However, parking can be a significant challenge during peak times, requiring early arrival or strategic planning.
"A charming little cove tucked away in Stage Fort Park—perfect for a relaxing beach day. The crescent shape gives it a cozy, secluded feel, and the calm waters make it great for swimming or just wading in.
It’s family-friendly, with picnic areas and restrooms nearby, plus plenty of green space around if you want a break from the sand.
The surrounding rocky cliffs offer scenic views and great photo spots, especially at sunset. Arrive early in the summer—parking fills up fast. A true hidden gem on the North Shore!"
Saja Mansour
"Great place to spend time with family. Very calm and not overcrowded around noon. Shallow even during high tide. Great views with nice rocks to climb.."
Damien Hansen
"Small, feels secluded depending on the number of people there. Lots of fun to climb rocks, plenty of shady spots. Not a ton of sand area for beach sports and stuff like that"
Jun Simons
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Half Moon Beach is located within Stage Fort Park in Gloucester, MA. Access is typically via local roads. Many visitors arrive by car, but be prepared for parking challenges during peak times.
Information on direct public transportation routes can be limited. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for Gloucester, MA, or consider ride-sharing services if driving is not an option.
Specific driving directions will depend on your starting point. Using a GPS navigation system with 'Stage Fort Park, Gloucester, MA' as the destination is recommended.
While the park offers green spaces, beach access can be challenging due to sand and rocky terrain. It's best to contact local park authorities for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
Yes, Half Moon Beach is generally well-marked on Google Maps, often listed within Stage Fort Park in Gloucester, Massachusetts.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Half Moon Beach itself is typically free as it's part of a public park. However, parking may have fees or require reservations during certain periods, especially in summer.
As a public beach within a park, Half Moon Beach is generally accessible during daylight hours. Park hours may vary, so it's wise to check local listings for Stage Fort Park.
Parking fees can apply, particularly during the summer season. Some sources suggest that parking might be free after a certain time on weekdays.
During peak season, especially from Memorial Day, advance online reservations for parking may be required for non-residents.
Standard beach regulations regarding alcohol, fires, and pets may apply. It's always a good idea to check for any posted rules or local ordinances.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy swimming, wading in calm waters, exploring tide pools at low tide, climbing rocks, and picnicking. It's also a great spot for photography.
Yes, the calm and shallow waters make it a very pleasant spot for swimming and wading, even during high tide.
Seasonal lifeguards are typically on duty during the summer months. It's advisable to check local park information for specific lifeguard schedules.
Restrooms and picnic areas are usually available nearby within Stage Fort Park.
It can get crowded, especially on summer weekends. Visiting on weekdays or later in the afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds.
📸 📸 Photography
The rocky cliffs offer excellent vantage points for panoramic shots, while the crescent shape of the beach itself provides a picturesque frame. Tide pools at low tide are also photogenic.
Absolutely! The western-facing aspect of the beach makes it an ideal location for capturing stunning sunset colors.
It's great for landscape, seascape, and family photography. The natural beauty and varied terrain offer diverse photographic opportunities.
Generally, casual photography is permitted. For commercial or professional shoots, it's always best to check with park authorities for any necessary permits.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting. Midday can be harsh, but the tide pools at low tide are interesting at any time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the tide pools at low tide is an exciting educational activity for children, allowing them to discover small marine creatures. The rocky formations also provide a fun, albeit supervised, area for climbing and imaginative play. Remember to pack beach toys and snacks to make the most of your family day out.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The sunset views from Half Moon Beach are renowned, making it an ideal spot for capturing dramatic skies and warm, golden hour light. The interplay of light on the water and the rugged coastline provides endless creative possibilities. Consider visiting during the 'golden hours' for the most impactful shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Unique Geography
The surrounding landscape offers more than just the beach. The rocky cliffs provide elevated viewpoints, perfect for taking in the sweeping vistas of the coastline and the ocean beyond. This varied terrain makes Half Moon Beach a visually dynamic location, appealing to those who enjoy both sandy shores and more rugged natural beauty.
While the beach itself is the main draw, its location within Stage Fort Park means visitors have access to additional amenities. The park provides picnic areas and green spaces, offering a comfortable break from the sand and a place to relax amidst nature. This combination of beach access and park facilities enhances the overall visitor experience.
Navigating Parking and Crowds
Some savvy travelers have discovered strategies to mitigate parking issues. One popular tip is to visit after 4 PM on weekdays, as this often coincides with reduced crowds and potentially free parking. This timing also offers the added benefit of enjoying the beach as the day cools down and the light becomes softer for photos.
For those who are not residents, advance online reservations for parking might be necessary, especially during peak season starting from Memorial Day. This is a crucial piece of information for out-of-town visitors planning their trip. Being prepared with a parking strategy can significantly improve the overall experience and reduce potential frustration.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit