Cockle Cove Beach is on Taylor’s Pond Road off Cockle Cove Road in South Chatham, MA. This beach is long and narrow with plenty of room and small waves. It’s a great place for windsurfing and boating. For cyclists, there’s even a bike rack. There is an attendant on-staff during the season.
Forest Beach is off of Forest Beach Road in Chatham, MA. There is free parking for a limited amount of cars. This is family-oriented beach with calm, warm waters for swimming. It is free-entry, but there are no bathrooms or lifeguards on staff. The beach includes plenty of shells for beachcombing and some rock jetties.
Oyster Pond is a beach off of Stage Harbor Road and Kingsbury Way in Chatham, MA. This beach features darker sand and a great view of the water. It’s very open, but it’s near traffic, so it’s not as peaceful as some other beaches near Chatham. There’s a fair amount of parking and it’s a great place to take the kids.
Off Harding Beach Road in Chatham, MA, Harding Beach is a great beach for beach games. Whether it’s beach volleyball, Frisbee, Wiffle ball, of even beach bocce (a local game), there’s always games going on at this beach. If you’re looking to sail or kayak to Monomoy Island, this is a great beach to launch from. There’s plenty of parking. There’s also an attendant on duty.
When pro para-surfers and windsurfers are looking for beaches near Chatham to enjoy, Pleasant Street Beach is a definite favorite. Off Pleasant Street in Chatham, MA, Pleasant Street Beach is also known for great views of sunsets. This pretty beach is also a great launching point for kayaks or sailboats towards Wychmere Harbor or Monomoy Island.
When people are looking for beaches near Chatham, this is the one that many people think of. Located on Shore Road by Chatham Light in Chatham, MA, South Beach is huge with an amazing view. It’s suggested to bring binoculars to see even more of the beautiful view. Also known as Lighthouse Beach, this is a great beach for all ages. However, be aware that parking is limited, and only available for half an hour. There is a shuttle bus available at Eldredge Service Station on Main Street, however.
Schoolhouse Pond is small with a roped-off swim area. Located off Schoolhouse Pond Road Chatham, MA, This beach is shady and calm, and despite its small size, it’s very popular. Note that no flotation devices are allowed at this spot.
Located off Ridgevale Drive in Chatham, MA, Ridgevale is a big beach with a little creek which empties into the Atlantic Ocean. It tends to be a hot spot for families because of its nice view and size.
For beach parking stickers, fishing permits, and other permits, contact the Chatham Permit office by calling 508-945-5180.