Beaches
Falmouth boasts over 68 miles of coastline peppered with gorgeous white sand beaches. Variety is the spice of life, and the same goes for our beaches. The Falmouth Beach Committee oversees ten public beaches throughout the town that also offer lifeguards and swim lessons, with parking passes available for all public beach lots at the Eileen T. Mitchell Bath House at Surf Drive Beach. Each one offers something different, from shallow tidal creeks popular with youngsters for collecting sea treasures, to rougher seas suitable for kite sailing and windsurfing. Photographers flock to Falmouth Heights for sunrise and find ample opportunities awaiting them at sunset on the shores of Chapoquoit, Old Silver and Stoney Beach, to name a few. In a coastal community like Falmouth, beaches also serve as the backdrop for special events, such as weddings and family portraits. Falmouth is also home to off-the-beaten path marshes perfect for kayaking and paddle boarding. If you’re traveling light, let Falmouth Visitor direct you to all of your rental needs.
SIPPEWISSETT: WOOD NECK
This hidden gem is an oasis off the beaten path of Sippewissett Road, which runs from Palmer Ave in downtown Falmouth all the way to Woods Hole. Known for its tidal pools and sandbars, Wood Neck is a family favorite with marine enthusiasts of all ages, boasting grassy dunes and sparkling green marshland. Be sure to bring your fishing net for the horseshoe crabs and other sea critters that are abundant. The rocky terrain doesn’t necessarily invite a towel, but if you walk down to the shore, it’s the ideal spot to plant your beach chair at the end of the day and linger over a good book as the incoming tide tickles your toes.
WEST FALMOUTH: CHAPOQUOIT “CHAPPY”
Affectionately known as “Chappy,” Chapoquoit Beach in West Falmouth is famous for its waves, making it a great spot for kiteboarders and windsurfers. The tide dips gradually, so it’s ideal for swimmers of all ages. Kids will enjoy body surfing and boogie boarding, while parents can gradually wade into the surf to supervise. The stellar sunsets set against the backdrop of Buzzards Bay can be enjoyed all year long, so visitors often linger over picnic dinners. There’s no concession stand, but the ice cream truck often makes an appearance, and a visit to Chappy is the perfect time to hit West Falmouth Market’s famous butcher shop for a sandwich crafted to order. Conveniently located off West Falmouth Highway and the Shining Sea Bikeway.
NORTH FALMOUTH: OLD SILVER
Old Silver is Falmouth’s destination beach. Get there early, because everyone else does. Expect a line, but the well-trained beach staff keep the operations moving swiftly, therefore it’s worth the wait. Known for its smooth white sand and Caribbean blue seas, Old Silver is also on the short list of best places to catch a Falmouth sunset. With full amenities including a concession stand, handicap-accessible restrooms and rinsing station, this is the place to plant yourself for the long haul. At the end of a long beach day with the family, you deserve a frozen mudslide, so hit the Sea Crest Beach Hotel’s outdoor bar next door and watch as the sun fades from bright orange to pastel pink.
NORTH FALMOUTH: MEGANSETT
Nestled in a quintessential Cape Cod summer community boasting weathered cottages dotted by purple hydrangeas, Megansett is a throwback to days gone by. This small beach is located right next to the Megansett Yacht Club and harbor, where a jump off the dock has been a rite of summer passage for generations. A busy launching spot for small power boats and sailboats, it’s also an ideal location for kayaking and paddle-boarding. There’s no concession stand, so before you make your way down the long road to the shore, be sure to stop at the nearby Wild Harbor General Store to stock up on provisions.
FALMOUTH HEIGHTS
Named for its panoramic vista, Falmouth Heights is the epicenter of summer fun. Located across from the finish line of the Falmouth Road Race, it’s where spectators gather for the annual Fourth of July fireworks as they are launched from a barge right off the beach. This neighborhood spot boasts warm, calm waters, and while some areas tend to be rocky, the eastern side known as “Familyland” is ideal for children. Although there isn’t a concession stand, the British Beer Company is steps away, making it the perfect spot for takeout. If you want to savor the view, grab a cocktail at Soprano’s, located next to the beach in a renovated oceanfront building that once housed the iconic Casino by the Sea and Wharf Restaurant. Kick back on the deck and watch the Island Queen make her hourly jaunt to Oak Bluffs.
BRISTOL BEACH
Although locals will argue over which village has ownership, Bristol is technically located in both Falmouth Heights and Teaticket. A charming footbridge over a shallow inlet from Little Pond divides this serene stretch of sand that begins where Grand Avenue meets Menuahant Road. Bristol East is ideal for children and families, while more experienced swimmers will enjoy the sudden drop-off on the western side. This quiet beach is often less crowded than neighboring Falmouth Heights.
SURF DRIVE
With a convenient location right off the Shining Sea Bikeway and close to downtown Falmouth, Surf Drive is a wide open stretch that offers easy access and stunning views of Falmouth Heights and Vineyard Sound. The kiddie pool is one of the biggest draws, in addition to the Doggz n Hoggz Snack Shack that offers everything from smoothies to lobster rolls. Surf Drive is also the headquarters for the Falmouth Beach Committee, located in the Eileen T. Mitchell Bath House, where resident beach stickers may be purchased for the season.
STONEY BEACH
Woods Hole’s Stoney Beach becomes an international summer playground each year as scientists and their families flock to the eclectic village for seasonal research at local laboratories in the world-renowned science community. The smooth sand is easy to navigate and the tide allows you to wade for several yards before reaching substantial depth. The calm surf makes Stoney a favorite for water sports including kayaking and paddle boarding. Insider tip - it’s often overlooked as one of the best places to catch a Falmouth sunset, regardless of the season. Although Stoney also lacks a concession stand, it’s a quick and picturesque walk to Water Street, which offers an array of takeout options
EAST FALMOUTH: MENAUHANT
Menauhant Beach, pronounced “Min-nont” is easy to misspell but hard to forget. Boasting dramatic dunes out of a Cape Cod postcard, this stretch of sand and sea in East Falmouth is divided into two sections by an inlet to Bournes Pond. With warmer waters, mild waves and a laid back vibe, this not-so-hidden gem is popular with locals and visitors alike. Located off Central Avenue on the way to Mashpee, it’s best to stock up for the day at nearby Kenyon’s Market as your only option is the occasional visit from the ice cream truck.
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Falmouth Watersports
