Wingaersheek Beach
Wingaersheek Beach boasts crystal-clear, shallow waters and vast sandbars, perfect for swimming and tide pool exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Explore sandbars & tide pools
Wingaersheek Beach
Best Time
Explore sandbars & tide pools
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Wingaersheek Beach boasts crystal-clear, shallow waters and vast sandbars, perfect for swimming and tide pool exploration.
"This is not Florida, and this is not Hawaii. It's located in Massachusetts."
🚗 Reserve Parking Online
Non-residents MUST book parking in advance online. Fees apply, especially on weekends.
🚶♀️ Explore at Low Tide
The beach is best for walking on sandbars and tide pooling during low tide.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive Sandbars
At low tide
Walk for nearly a mile into the ocean on vast sandbars, revealing tide pools and marine wonders.
Crystal-Clear, Shallow Waters
Main beach area
Enjoy incredibly clear, warm, and shallow waters perfect for swimming and wading, even for non-swimmers.
Tide Pool Exploration
Rocky areas at low tide
Discover a vibrant underwater world in the numerous tide pools, a hit with kids and nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reserve Parking Early!
Low Tide Exploration is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Reserve Parking Online
Non-residents MUST book parking in advance online. Fees apply, especially on weekends.
🚶♀️ Explore at Low Tide
The beach is best for walking on sandbars and tide pooling during low tide.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Waters
Shallow, clear waters make it ideal for families with young children.
🍦 Grab a Treat Nearby
Don't miss Holy Cow Ice Cream Cafe for a post-beach treat!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Reserve Parking Online
Non-residents MUST book parking in advance online. Fees apply, especially on weekends.
🚶♀️ Explore at Low Tide
The beach is best for walking on sandbars and tide pooling during low tide.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Waters
Shallow, clear waters make it ideal for families with young children.
🍦 Grab a Treat Nearby
Don't miss Holy Cow Ice Cream Cafe for a post-beach treat!
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Water shoes can be helpful for exploring rocky tide pool areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wingaersheek Beach is celebrated for its stunningly clear, shallow waters and expansive sandbars perfect for exploration at low tide. Visitors rave about its family-friendly atmosphere and picturesque New England scenery. However, the high cost and necessity of advance reservations for parking are significant drawbacks for many.
"Wingarsheek Beach is one of the popular beaches on the North Shore in the Gloucester area, with a wide area for many people to come and enjoy on the weekends. The beach does get pretty crowded even at close to closing, and needs reservations in advance for parking (currently $45 for weekends).
The beach itself is really nice, with soft sand, a few rocky areas, and nice clear water to play in or take photos at. It is a perfect area for a beach date or hanging out on the beach for the day if you want to go elsewhere that isn't Cape Cod."
Nick S
"“Beautiful beach with stunning views and very clean surroundings. Parking is $47 on holiday weekends (usually $37).”"
Jose Gonzalez
"Awesome beach with very nice water. The beach runs shallow for almost a mile which provides a lot of playing ground for the kids.
One of the downside is the parking which is just so costly ~$50 for non resident parking. However we went in evening at around 5 and at them it's free. There is proper washroom which gets closed by 6pm. There are couple of porta pottys which are available."
Karan Gupta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wingaersheek Beach is located in Gloucester, MA. Driving is the most common way to access it. Non-residents need to reserve parking online in advance, as spots are limited and can be costly.
Public transportation options are limited. While local buses may serve Gloucester, direct public transit to the beach itself is not widely available. Driving and parking reservations are the primary methods for visitors.
The address for Wingaersheek Beach is 245 Concord St, Gloucester, MA 01930. However, relying on GPS might be less effective than using the official reservation system for parking access.
While drop-offs are possible, parking is the main concern for visitors. If you are being dropped off, ensure your driver is aware of any temporary drop-off zones or restrictions.
Parking is a major consideration. Non-residents must reserve parking online in advance, with fees varying by day. Evenings after 5 PM may offer free parking, but check current regulations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, non-residents absolutely need to reserve parking online in advance, especially during peak season and weekends. This is a mandatory requirement to secure a spot.
Parking fees vary. Expect to pay around $30-$50 for non-resident parking on weekends and holidays. Evenings after 5 PM might be free, but confirm current pricing.
The beach is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, parking access and facilities like restrooms have specific operating hours, often closing around 6 PM.
It is highly recommended to purchase parking reservations online in advance. On-site ticket purchases or availability for non-residents are not guaranteed and can be very expensive.
While the beach itself is accessible year-round, amenities like restrooms and lifeguards are seasonal. Parking regulations and fees may also differ outside of the summer months.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy swimming in clear, shallow waters, exploring vast sandbars at low tide, and discovering tide pools. It's also a great spot for sunbathing and beachcombing.
Absolutely! The shallow, calm waters and expansive sandbars make it incredibly family-friendly. Kids love exploring the tide pools.
Lifeguards are typically on duty during the peak summer season. It's always wise to check the official Gloucester Parks and Recreation website for current lifeguard schedules.
There are restrooms available, though they may close by 6 PM. Portable toilets are also provided. A snack hut is often present during peak season.
While not guaranteed, sand dollars can sometimes be found, especially after storms or during low tide. Keep an eye out in the wet sand.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There isn't a full-service restaurant directly on the beach, but there is often a snack hut selling light fare and drinks. For more options, explore nearby Gloucester.
Holy Cow Ice Cream Cafe is a popular spot recommended by visitors for a post-beach treat. Gloucester also offers numerous seafood restaurants and casual eateries.
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the sand, but remember to clean up after yourself.
Alcohol policies can vary and are subject to local ordinances. It's best to check the most current regulations for Wingaersheek Beach regarding alcohol consumption.
The snack hut typically offers classic beach fare like hot dogs, chips, ice cream, and beverages. It's perfect for a quick bite or a refreshing drink.
📸 📸 Photography
The sandbars at low tide, the large boulders, and the clear water create stunning photographic opportunities. Sunsets here are also spectacular.
Drone usage may be restricted or require permits. Always check local regulations and be mindful of other beachgoers before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hours) offer the best light for photography. Low tide also provides unique compositions with the sandbars and tide pools.
Yes, the tide pools are a fantastic subject for photography, especially when they are full of small marine life. Be careful not to disturb the ecosystem.
While not a specific landmark, the dramatic rock formations and the expansive, clear water are the iconic visual elements of Wingaersheek Beach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, or plan a stop at the nearby Holy Cow Ice Cream Cafe for a sweet treat.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider carpooling with friends to split the parking cost. If you're looking for a truly free experience, explore the beach during low tide when the sandbars are exposed, offering a unique landscape to walk and explore without needing to pay for prime sunbathing spots.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The large, weathered boulders scattered across the beach add texture and visual interest to your shots. Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) provides the most flattering light, casting a warm glow over the scene. Experiment with different perspectives, from wide-angle shots of the coastline to macro photography of the tide pool inhabitants. The contrast between the soft sand, rugged rocks, and clear water makes for dynamic compositions.
+1 Remember to check tide charts to plan your visit around low tide for the most dramatic sandbar and tide pool access. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Parking and Reservations
+1 Fees vary, with weekends and holidays typically being the most expensive. Arriving in the evening, often after 5 PM, may allow for free parking, but this is subject to change and should be verified. Pro-tip: If you're staying locally, consider biking or walking if feasible, though distances can be significant. For those driving, have your reservation confirmation readily accessible on your phone or printed out. Understanding the reservation system is key to a stress-free visit to this popular Massachusetts beach.
+1The Magic of Low Tide Exploration
It's an absolute delight for children and adults alike, offering a chance to connect with nature in a safe and accessible environment. When planning your visit, checking the tide charts is essential to maximize your experience. The visual of the vast, wet sand stretching towards the horizon, dotted with pools of water reflecting the sky, is a photographer's dream.
+1 Remember to wear appropriate footwear, such as water shoes, if you plan on exploring the rockier sections of the tide pools. Family-Friendly Features and Water Conditions
Beyond the water, the beach offers soft, fine sand perfect for building sandcastles and playing. The presence of lifeguards during the summer season adds an extra layer of security for families.
Many visitors describe it as a perfect spot for a relaxed beach day, away from the sometimes overwhelming crowds of other popular New England destinations. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit