Good Harbor Beach

Located on Thatcher Road/Route 127A, Good Harbor is a beautiful beach with lovely white sand and great waves, facing the Atlantic. Featuring great waves, zero entry, and a good amount of space, Good Harbor is a favorite among Boston area beach goers. At low tide, one can walk out to Salt Island, while at high tide, one can enjoy body surfing or boogie boards. Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily. Inflatable objects and all flotation devices (with the exception of Styrofoam boogie boards) are prohibited during the hours lifeguards are on duty. For details on the surfing regulations, please visit the Beach Rules and Regulations. Alcohol is also prohibited. Gloucester has adopted a 'Carry In-Carry Out' Policy for Good Harbor and Wingaersheek beaches. Please be prepared to carry out any trash with you when you leave. Food, drinks, beach toys, and other beach necessities are available at the concession. Restrooms and showers are also available from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm daily. During periods of inclement weather, all facilities may close early. Parking is available during the week at a rate of $30 per vehicle, and on the weekends and holidays at $35 per vehicle. (After Labor Day, beaches may be open with reduced rates charged, weather permitting.)

Parking reservations are required for non-resident beachgoers and can be made via the reservation system. Cash will no longer be accepted at the gate for parking. The gates open at 8:00 am and are locked at 9:00 pm. The beach is handicapped accessible, with approximately 16 handicapped spaces in the lot and a drop-off space near the footbridge. A beach wheelchair is also available; ask at the collection booth upon arrival or ask the lifeguards for information. Buses are prohibited from the parking lot and any large groups must receive a permit ($25 per permit).

Sights in Rockport

Halibut Point State Park

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Scramble across ledges scarred for eons by wind and wave, and examine tide pools teeming with marine life. Halibut Point State Park is a coastal area on 440 million year old granite offers spectacular views, wildflowers, visitors center.

Thacher Island

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The Thatcher Island Twin Lights were the 11th and final lighthouses built by the British of Massachusetts Bay in 1771.

Bearskin Neck

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Bearskin Neck, the heart of Rockport is a short stroll from the Rockport House. Come explore dining, art galleries, shopping and breathtaking seashore vistas.

Rockport Beaches

Hiking Trails

All Trails – Best trails in Rockport

Kayaking

Exploring Gloucester

Gloucester Sights

Good Harbor Beach

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Good Harbor is a favorite among Boston area beach goers. At low tide, one can walk out to Salt Island, while at high tide, one can enjoy body surfing or boogie boards.

Wingaersheek Beach

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One of Massachusetts' best beaches features calm waters and protected dunes. Visitors can enjoy food, drinks, beach toys, and other amenities from the on-site concession stand, along with access to showers and bathrooms.

Hammond Castle Museum

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Hammond Castle is located on the Atlantic coast of Gloucester. The castle, which was constructed between 1926 and 1929, was the home, laboratory, and museum of John Hays Hammond Jr.,