Chatham Beaches

Explore Cape Cod ’ s Most Beautiful Beaches – Just Moments Away

Chatham, located on the southeastern edge of Cape Cod, is a picturesque town that is known forits sandy beaches that are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or taking a leisurely stroll.

Chatham Beaches

Chatham Lighthouse Beach

Chatham Lighthouse beach is the largest in Chatham, with an active lighthouse at the Coast Guard Station. The lighthouse is normally closed to the public but is periodically open to tourists during the summer. Admission is free.

 


Chatham Lighthouse Beach is only half a mile from downtown Chatham and has stunning views. There are sand dunes and a beautiful walkable beach with clear water. Besides walking, you can also watch the seals, build sandcastles or work on your tan. You can also swim to a gorgeous sandbar where locals set up picnics and barbeques. In summer Yoga is offered on the beach. Lighthouse Beach is not guarded by lifeguards and the currents can be strong depending on weather conditions. Sections of the beach are closed to swimming because of strong tides. Parking at the beach is limited to half an hour. Visitors who want to spend the day can take a short walk from town (15 min). There are also shuttle buses to the beach that run from Eldredge Service Station, on Main Street in Chatham.

Cockle Cove Beach

Cockle Cove is a great beach for families and for adults as well. It is a short drive from the center of Chatham on the Nantucket Sound. The beach is easy to access and is a great place walk along and admire the views. It is located between Ridgevale and Forest Street beaches. This beach is a favorite for those with small children and is also popular with windsurfers and kayakers. There are a lifeguard and bathrooms. A parking pass is required.

Hardings Beach

Hardings Beach is a wonderful family friendly beach on the bay side of Chatham. It has sand dunes, hiking trails, marked swimming areas, bathrooms, showers, and lifeguard stations. There is a large parking lot (pass required) with easy access to the beach. The beach has a slow drop off, making it great for swimming. Food is available at the beach.

Pleasant Street Beach

Pleasant Street Beach is a small beach on the Nantucket Sound. It is a favorite spot for windsurfers and kiteboarders. It is also known for its great sunsets and its rock jetties. The beach is considered a good launching point for kayaks or sailboats that wish to go towards Monomoy Island. The parking is free, but the parking lot is small. There are no concession stands or lifeguards. It is about a five-mile drive from downtown Chatham.

Ridgevale Beach

Ridgevale Beach is one of the larger beaches in Chatham. It is a popular, family-friendly beach that has tidal pools for children to wade in, as well as offering boat rentals and a snack bar. Paddle boards etc. can be rented from the beach shop. It also has bathrooms and lifeguard stations. Parking (pass required) is available.