You don’t have to leave the city—or even go far from it—to enjoy a beach day in Boston. While it may be better known for brownstones, baked beans, and Bruins games, Boston also has access to some truly beautiful beaches just a short drive or train ride away. Whether you’re looking for a quiet seaside escape, family-friendly fun, or just a spot to dip your toes in the Atlantic, there’s a beach for every kind of summer day.
Here’s a guide to some of the best beaches near Boston—each offering its own charm, scenery, and easy access from the city.
Revere Beach (Revere, MA)
Distance from Boston: ~5 miles / ~20 minutes by car or T
Getting There: Blue Line to Revere Beach Station
Revere Beach holds a special place in history as America’s first public beach, and today it remains one of the most accessible stretches of sand near the city. The beach runs for about three miles and features a wide promenade perfect for walking, jogging, or grabbing a slice of beach pizza. The beach is staffed with lifeguards, occasional food trucks and events, and public restrooms which is beaching made easy. On a hot summer day this is the perfect excursion for family or friends to get coastal!
Castle Island & Pleasure Bay (South Boston)
Distance from The Lenox: ~3 miles / ~15 minutes by car or bus
Getting There: #9 bus or uber
If you want a beach experience without leaving Boston, Castle Island is your spot. Located in Southie, Pleasure Bay offers calm, clean waters and scenic views of Boston Harbor. It’s especially ideal for families with young kids thanks to its gentle waves and looped walking path around the bay. It also has the famous eatery, Sullivan’s, a casual seaside snack shack for hot dogs, lobster rolls, soft serve, or other provisions to grab between beach volleyball games. Uniquely, this beach area is only feet away from Fort Independence, a historic site open for seasonal tours, which is a great way to learn a thing or two during your beach day. This beach merges with another South Boston gem, Carson Beach which is part of the South Boston Waterfront Park system. It’s got great views of the harbor islands and plenty of room to spread out. There’s also a bike path, volleyball courts, and picnic areas! Usually a popular spot amongst the locals, this beach is a fun and active spot right in Boston.
Nantasket Beach (Hull, MA)
Distance from Boston: ~20 miles / ~40 minutes by car or Hingham/hull ferry
Getting There: MBTA ferry from Long Wharf to Hull + short shuttle/taxi
Located on the South Shore, Nantasket Beach in Hull offers a wide, flat shoreline perfect for walking at low tide. The waves are bigger here than at Boston Harbor beaches, making it a good pick for boogie boarding and splashing around. There’s also a boardwalk area with arcades, a carousel and beach restaurants as far as the eye can see! Nantasket is a local favorite because of the endless amounts of activities to do coupled with a great beach walk. It’s a little more of a day trip, but still very doable for a city dweller, and the ferry is a fun experience in and of itself! With a viewing deck and snack bar you can grab a drink and head up top to try and catch some whale sighting on your way in and out of the city!
