With nearly 200 miles of picturesque coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, Massachusetts beaches are some of the best! Horseneck Beach is no exception. This wide, sandy beach is a part of the Horseneck Beach State Reservation and offers ample outdoor recreation. In this guide, we'll tell you all about the reservation, its activities, and answers to common questions.

About Horseneck Beach

Horseneck Beach State Reservation is one of Massachusetts state parks and boasts two miles of sand and pebble shoreline overlooking the western end of Buzzards Bay. This barrier beach and salt marsh protect the Westport River and are located in Westport, MA.

Whether you’re looking for a place to cool off in the water, catch some sunshine, or explore local wildlife and nature trails, Horseneck Beach State Reservation is the place to go.

With more than 600 acres of protected land, you can find a majestic shoreline, sprawling marshes, and rolling dunes. Nature enthusiasts especially love visiting for the many outdoor activities at the shore and nearby.

Since the Massachusetts Department of Public Works acquired Horseneck Beach in 1956, it has become a popular summer destination for both locals and tourists. Every year, mainly during the peak summer season, thousands of people visit Horseneck Beach.

Horseneck Beach State Reservation is just a short distance from Boston and Rhode Island and is relatively easy to access no matter where you're coming from. Route 88 South will take you right to Westport, where you can follow signs to the beach's main entrance on John Reed Road.

You'll find plenty of parking close to the shore when you arrive. The parking fee for Massachusetts residents is $13. The fee for those out of state is $40. This entry fee includes access to all facilities and amenities, including picnic areas, a playground, showers, and beach wheelchairs.

Activities & Attractions

As we mentioned, there is no shortage of things to do at Horseneck Beach State Reservation. This large state park offers something for everyone!

Water Activities

Various swimming areas offer ample opportunity to play in the water. Beachgoers also enjoy sunbathing, building sandcastles, and excellent wind surfing opportunities. Anglers can catch fish from the shore, too. If you're interested in boating, the reservation boat ramp also provides public access for boaters.

Wildlife & Hiking

Bird watching is also a popular activity at the beachfront and park, where you can find a wide range of unique and rare birds.

This reservation boasts even more trails and activities at nearby Gooseberry Island, a rocky headland located behind the beach’s dunes. You can explore hiking trails and bike on paved paths surrounded by wildlife.

Camping

One of the most fun activities in the reservation is tent or RV camping. The campground is near the Gooseberry Neck peninsula on the eastern end of the reservation, just behind the sand dunes. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring and is located close to all the beach's fun activities.

Learn more and reserve a site here.

Explore History

History buffs also enjoy checking out the Horseneck Point Lifesaving Station, one of the last of its kind in the state. Since being restored as a visitor center in 2009, you can learn about Buzzard Bay’s maritime history and get an up-close view of the local wildlife at the station’s coastal touch tank.

Horseneck Beach State Reservation Review

With so many unique activities to explore throughout Horseneck Beach State Reservation, this is one of the best seaside destinations in Massachusetts for anyone who loves the outdoors.

The sprawling, sandy coastline offers ample space to relax on the beach, sunbathe, walk along the shore, and enjoy water activities. We especially love the opportunities to bike and hike around the park.

There are a couple of important things to note when you visit. Sand bars can drop at low tide, so be careful in the water. It's also a good idea to bring water shoes because of the cobblestones along the shore. All the sand dunes are protected, so entrance is restricted.

Because this beach is so popular, it can get pretty crowded during the warm summer months with visitors looking to escape the sweltering inland temperatures and enjoy nature. While there’s lots of parking and space to spread out on the sand, we recommend getting there early to beat the traffic and crowds.

Overall, Horseneck Beach State Reservation is a must-visit and offers an unforgettable summer getaway for all kinds of beachgoers!