
Bass River Beach (Smuggler's Beach)
A beautiful, clean sandy beach on Nantucket Sound, known for its year-round sunrises and family-friendly atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Spectacular sunrises await!

Bass River Beach (Smuggler's Beach)
Best Time
Spectacular sunrises await!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful, clean sandy beach on Nantucket Sound, known for its year-round sunrises and family-friendly atmosphere.
"Beautiful clean beach can't wait to get back I was able to relax on the beach and my husband was able to fish. "

🌅 Year-Round Sunrise Spot
Don't miss the stunning sunrises here, a highlight for many visitors any time of year!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Waves
The gentle waves of Nantucket Sound are perfect for families with young children.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nantucket Sound Shoreline
Bass River Beach
Miles of sandy shores perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxing beach days. Feel the gentle waves lap your feet.

Sunrise Spectacle
Bass River Beach
Experience breathtaking year-round sunrises over the water. A truly magical start to any day.

Fishing Jetty
Bass River Beach
An ideal spot for anglers or simply to sit, watch boats, and make plans. Great for photos too!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Off-Season Charm
Family-Friendly Fun & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Year-Round Sunrise Spot
Don't miss the stunning sunrises here, a highlight for many visitors any time of year!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Waves
The gentle waves of Nantucket Sound are perfect for families with young children.
🚶♀️ Off-Season Strolls
Enjoy peaceful walks along the shore; the beach is beautiful even in cooler months.
🎣 Angler's Paradise
The jetty is a prime spot for fishing or simply watching boats cruise by.
Perfect Beach?
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Year-Round Sunrise Spot
Don't miss the stunning sunrises here, a highlight for many visitors any time of year!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Waves
The gentle waves of Nantucket Sound are perfect for families with young children.
🚶♀️ Off-Season Strolls
Enjoy peaceful walks along the shore; the beach is beautiful even in cooler months.
🎣 Angler's Paradise
The jetty is a prime spot for fishing or simply watching boats cruise by.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bass River Beach (Smuggler's Beach) for its beautiful, clean shores and year-round appeal. It's a favorite for relaxing walks, family fun with gentle waves, and stunning sunrises. The fishing jetty also adds to its charm, making it a versatile coastal spot.
"Love this beach! Nice for walking, beach day, fishing, you name it. It’s even nicer in the off-season as well."
Ariel Folkerts
"Fantastic beach! Great place for a picnic near the grass or delightful walk along the shore, let the gentle waves lap yours feet while telling stories. Jetty is ideal spot for a pic or maybe sit at the end watch boats cruise as you make detailed plans 👍🏽"
Nelson Bernardo
"Best place for a year round sunrise experience"
Harry Witherspoon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bass River Beach is located at the mouth of Bass River, overlooking Nantucket Sound. Access is typically via River Road in Yarmouth, MA. Parking is available, though it can fill up quickly during peak season.
Yes, there is parking available at Bass River Beach. However, it's advisable to arrive early, especially during the summer months, as it can become quite busy.
While primarily associated with Yarmouth, its location on Nantucket Sound means it's a popular destination for visitors from surrounding Cape Cod towns.
During peak season, consider arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon to secure parking. Carpooling or using ride-sharing services might also be options.
Public transport options on Cape Cod can be limited, especially to specific beach locations. It's best to check local bus schedules for Yarmouth or consider ride-sharing services.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bass River Beach typically has a parking fee during the summer season. The exact cost can vary, so it's good to check local town regulations or signage upon arrival.
The beach itself is generally accessible year-round for walking and enjoying the scenery. However, amenities like restrooms and snack stands usually operate during the summer season, with specific hours.
Tickets are not typically required for entry to the beach itself, but parking fees are usually collected on-site during the operational season.
Discounts may be available for residents of Yarmouth or for season passes, if offered. It's best to inquire locally or check the town's official website for details.
Absolutely! The beach is beautiful and accessible year-round for walks and enjoying the scenery, with no entry fees outside the main season.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Bass River Beach offers restrooms, a snack stand, and a fishing jetty. It's a great spot for picnics, especially near the grassy areas.
Yes, Bass River Beach is known for its gentle waves on Nantucket Sound, making it a good spot for swimming, especially for families with children.
The jetty at Bass River Beach is a popular spot for fishing, offering a great place to cast a line and enjoy the coastal views.
Regulations regarding dogs can vary by season and town. It's advisable to check the current local ordinances for Bass River Beach regarding pet access.
Bass River Beach features a lovely sandy shoreline, perfect for walking, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.
📸 📸 Photography
The fishing jetty offers great vantage points for capturing boats and coastal scenery. The shoreline itself is perfect for capturing sunrises and beach activities.
Early mornings are ideal for capturing stunning sunrises. Golden hour in the late afternoon also provides beautiful light for beach photography.
The confluence of the Bass River and Nantucket Sound, along with the jetty, provides unique perspectives. The changing tides also offer dynamic photographic possibilities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive shoreline and sunrises. A telephoto lens can be useful for photographing boats or distant wildlife. Don't forget a tripod for low-light sunrise shots!
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local restrictions. Always check for any no-fly zones or specific rules before operating a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧👦 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the weekdays or in the early morning to avoid the biggest crowds. The beach also offers a pleasant grassy area for picnics, providing a comfortable spot for families to relax.
🎣 Anglers and Photographers
The interplay of the river mouth and the ocean, along with the jetty itself, provides unique compositions. Whether you're aiming for dramatic sunrise shots or capturing the daily life of local boaters, Bass River Beach offers a rewarding experience for visual storytellers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dual Identity: Bass River Beach vs. Smuggler's Beach
Today, this dual identity reflects its multifaceted appeal. Whether you're seeking the calm waters of the river estuary or the more dynamic waves of the Sound, the beach offers a diverse coastal experience. It's a place where families can enjoy gentle play and anglers can cast their lines, all within a beautiful natural setting.
This blend of history and natural beauty makes Bass River Beach a unique destination on Cape Cod. It’s a place that invites exploration, relaxation, and a connection with the coastal environment.
Year-Round Beauty and Activities
Beyond sunrise viewing, the beach is perfect for long, contemplative walks. The expansive sandy shores provide ample space to explore, collect shells, or simply enjoy the sound of the waves. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter, more reflective beach experience, away from the summer crowds.
Whether you're an early bird catching the dawn or a winter wanderer seeking solitude, Bass River Beach offers a consistent charm. Its accessibility and natural splendor make it a valuable destination throughout the year.






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