Cape Cod is renowned for its picturesque beaches and scenic landscapes. With miles of coastline, Cape Cod offers a plethora of family-friendly beaches where kids can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. Whether you’re seeking calm and shallow waters for little ones or exciting waves for older children, thereare plenty of beaches for kids on Cape Cod that caters to every family’s needs. Fly a kite, build a sandcastle, explore tide pools, boogie board, hunt seashells, or enjoy a game of volleyball — the beaches of Cape Cod are fun for young and old alike.
In this article, we present a list of the 15 best beaches for kids on Cape Cod, highlighting their unique features and attractions. So, grab your sunscreen and beach toys, and get ready for unforgettable family fun on Cape Cod!
Top Beaches for Kids on Cape Cod
Summer is here and its beach time! Your kids are probably clamoring to play in the water and build sandcastles. Let’s explore the best beaches on Cape Cod for family fun!
1. Craigville Beach (Centerville)
997 Craigville Beach Rd, Centerville, MA 02632
(508) 775-9695
Located in Centerville, Craigville Beach boasts gentle waves and soft sand, making it ideal for young children. The shallow waters and lifeguard presence ensure a safe environment, while amenities like restrooms, picnic areas, and snack bars add to the convenience.
2. Corporation Beach (Dennis)
250 Corporation Rd, Dennis, MA 02638
(508) 760-6159
Corporation Beach in Dennis offers a tranquil setting with calm waters perfect for young swimmers. The tidal flats provide an opportunity for exploration during low tide, and the beach’s playground and shady picnic area offer additional entertainment options.
3. Mayflower Beach (Dennis)
94 Horsefoot Path, Dennis, MA 02638
(508) 769-5501
Mayflower Beach is renowned for its expansive shoreline and low-tide sandbars, creating a vast playground for kids to explore. The calm and warm waters make it suitable for families with young children, and the stunning sunsets make for a memorable end to the day.
4. Coast Guard Beach (Eastham)
100 Ocean View Dr, Eastham, MA 02642
(508) 255-3421
Located within the Cape Cod National Seashore, Coast Guard Beach is known for its natural beauty and rolling sand dunes. While older kids can enjoy the waves, families with younger children can explore the nearby Nauset Marsh for an educational adventure in the diverse ecosystem. Stop by the Salt Pond Visitors Center to check out the educational displays and activities for kids. A shuttle runs from Litte Creek Shuttle Staging Area where there is parking for non-residents.
5. Nauset Beach
250 Beach Rd, Orleans, MA 02653
(508) 255-2364
Nauset Beach is a popular destination for families, offering beautiful scenery and ample space to spread out. The beach’s gentle waves and lifeguard supervision make it safe for kids, while the expansive shoreline invites sandcastle building and beach games. It’s also a great beach for surfers.
6. Red River Beach (Harwich)
Route 28, Harwich, MA 02645
(508) 360-7227
Red River Beach provides a family-friendly atmosphere with its warm water, gentle waves, and extensive sandy shore. The tidal pools during low tide are perfect for little ones to discover marine life, and the picnic area and playground offer additional recreational options. There are lifeguards and restrooms and usually mobile food vendors.
7. Chatham Lighthouse Beach
37 Main Street, Chatham, MA 02633
Chatham Lighthouse Beach combines stunning views of or visit to the iconic lighthouse with a family-friendly atmosphere. While swimming is not usually recommended due to strong currents, kids can enjoy playing at the shore, flying kites, exploring tide pools, and taking scenic walks along the shore. The beach provides you with a view of the Chatham Bars and Nantucket sound. A great beach walk to find an iconic shack built from marine debris.
8. Sandy Neck Beach (Barnstable)
425 Sandy Neck Rd, W Barnstable, MA 02668
(508) 362-8300
Sandy Neck Beach in Barnstable offers a unique blend of beach, maritime forest, marshes, and dune landscapes. Kids can engage in various activities such as beachcombing, kite flying, and exploring the picturesque trails. It’s important to note that a parking permit is required to access the beach.
9. Skaket Beach (Orleans)
131 Skaket Beach Rd, Orleans, MA 02653
(508) 240-3700
Skaket Beach is a favorite among the beaches for kids on Cape Cod, thanks to its warm and calm waters. The tidal flats at low tide provide opportunities for sandbar adventures and shell collecting. The beach’s gentle slope also allows for long walks along the shoreline. The kids will have a blast looking for seashells.
Skaket Beach has restrooms, bike racks, lifeguards, outside showers, benches, picnic tables, a snack bar and is handicap accessible. If you find yourself there later in the day, the sunsets are outstanding!
10. Old Silver Beach (Falmouth)
350 Quaker Rd, North Falmouth, MA 02556
(508) 548-8623
Old Silver Beach is renowned for its crystal-clear water and beautiful white sand. Spend the afternoon building sandcastles or pack a picnic for the entire family to enjoy. The beach’s gentle surf is suitable for kids.
11. Seagull Beach (West Yarmouth)
Sea Gull Rd, West Yarmouth, MA 02673
(508) 398-2231
Located in West Yarmouth, Seagull Beach offers a wide sandy shore and calm waters, making it an ideal beach for families with young children. The beach features picnic areas, restrooms, and lifeguards on duty, ensuring a safe and convenient experience for everyone.
12. Veterans Park Beach (Hyannis)
480 Ocean St, Hyannis, MA 02601
(508) 790-6345
Situated in Hyannis, Veterans Park Beach provides a family-friendly environment with its gentle waves and sandy shoreline. The beach offers amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and a playground, making it a great spot for a day of fun and relaxation with the kids.
13. Smugglers Beach (South Yarmouth)
329 S Shore Dr, South Yarmouth, MA 02664
(508) 398-6955
Smugglers Beach in South Yarmouth is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful and scenic beach experience. The beach features soft sand, calm waters, and beautiful views, perfect for families looking to unwind and enjoy a day by the water.
14. Harding Beach (Chatham)
200 Hardings Beach Rd, Chatham, Ma 02633
(508) 945-7443
Harding Beach is a popular choice for families in Chatham due to its calm waters and picturesque setting. The beach provides ample space for sandcastle building and beach games, while the nearby walking trails offer a chance to explore the surrounding nature.
15. West Dennis Beach (Dennis)
West Dennis, MA 02670
West Dennis Beach is a spacious beach with plenty of room for families to spread out and enjoy the sun. The beach offers gentle waves, lifeguards on duty, and amenities like restrooms.
Conclusion
Cape Cod offers a fantastic selection of beaches that are perfect for families with kids. Whether you’re seeking calm and shallow waters, opportunities for exploration and adventure, or simply a picturesque setting for a day of fun in the sun, Cape Cod has it all. From Orleans to Falmouth, the 15 beaches for kids on Cape Cod mentioned in this article provide a range of experiences that cater to different interests and age groups.
Remember to check beach regulations, parking availability, and any specific guidelines or restrictions before heading out. More beaches have a daily fee for parking unless you have a weekly or seasonal pass. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to pack sunscreen, beach toys, snacks, and plenty of water to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day at the beach.
Whether you choose to build sandcastles, swim in the waves, explore tide pools, or simply relax under the sun, the beaches for kids on Cape Cod offer endless opportunities for unforgettable family memories. So, plan your next beach adventure on Cape Cod and create cherished moments with your little ones amidst the natural beauty of this coastal paradise.
After spending the day in the sun building your own sandcastles, you may want to check out the Sand Sculpture Trail in Yarmouth to find an amazing display of some that are professionally made.
For more fun for kids on Cape Cod check out the Adventure Parks.
