It’s only June and already we’re feeling the heat here in the Boston area. If you’re looking for a weekend getaway or always dreamed of a home by the coast, consider some of these top choices right outside of Boston.
Rockport
This small seaside town offers charm, culture, and community less than hour north of Boston. Since the only land border is Gloucester to the west, there are plenty of little beaches and endless views of the Atlantic in this sparse suburban town. Check out Bearskin Neck, one of the most beloved art colonies, to find one-of-a-kind galleries, shops, restaurants, and cafes at the very tip of Cape Ann.
Ipswich
Ipswich is home to Crane’s Beach, one of the most popular and pristine beaches on Cape Ann. Aside from the miles of coastline, there are plenty of trails and dunes to explore year-round. Day trippers and residents alike enjoy a day at the beach followed by fresh seafood at Ipswich Clambake or a stop at one of the farms along the way home such as Appleton Farms or Russells Orchard complete with winery. However, there is more to the town than just the ocean. There is a bustling downtown, commuter rail station, as well as access to the Ipswich River.
Newburyport
With a bustling downtown, Newburyport is so much more than a summer escape. You can feel the history as you drive through and see the preserved downtown and residences. There’s art, culture, food, shopping, hiking, and access to the ocean and Merrimack River.
Cohasset
Traveling to the South Shore, you’ll find the small coastal community of Cohasset. It’s home to the oldest yacht club on the South Shore, has a quaint downtown area, and three beaches along the bay that are open to the public. Though small, there are no shortage of multi-million dollar homes dotting the coastline on notorious roads such as Jericho Rd. and Atlantic Ave.
Chatham
Further south now to the Cape, we stop at Chatham, home of arguably the most famous summer baseball league. This may be better suited as summer vacation/summer home destination if you have a young family as most of the year-long residents are retirees. It’s also home to one of the Cape’s most scenic golf courses and a luxurious dining scene.
Falmouth
Falmouth is one of the most populated towns on the Cape and for good reason. You hav access to gorgeous beaches, plus many attractions in Falmouth stay open during the cooler months of the year. While the big crowds may still start to taper off, you don’t have to worry about everything closing up shop in Falmouth at the end of the summer season.
The Islands
For the sake of this blog, I am grouping Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket together, but as anyone who has visited any of the islands knows, there is a pleasant rivalry inspired by the fierce loyalty of regulars who visit or reside on either island. Martha’s Vineyard is about 7 miles from the mainland making it the closer of the 2 and about twice the size making a car a necessity. Nantucket is 30 miles off the coast, with just one town and a bike is the preferred mode of transportation here. Both offer pristine beaches that island living dreams are made of.
What are some of your favorite beaches? Let me know in the comments!
If you’re considering a vacation or second home, Contact me, and let’s get the conversation started.
