THE BEACH
Horseneck Beach
Nearly two miles of wide-open sand, strong surf, and some of the best sunsets in Massachusetts, right here in Westport.
Summer 2026 | select weeks still available
About Horseneck Beach
Horseneck Beachis a state beach. It's big, it's popular, and in summer it gets crowded. There are campgrounds on site. If you walk west along the beach past the main area, it opens up and gets quieter.
East Beach is on the other side. Quieter, rocky, good for skipping stones. On a clear day you can see Martha's Vineyard and Cuttyhunk from there.
The main beach has bathrooms and lifeguards.
What to Do at Horseneck Beach
Miles of Sandy Beach
Nearly two miles of uninterrupted sand along Buzzards Bay. Spread out, walk the shoreline, build sandcastles. There is room for everyone, even on the busiest summer days.
Strong Surf
Horseneck Beach picks up consistent south swells that make it one of the best surf spots on the South Coast of Massachusetts. Good for shortboards, longboards, and bodyboarding.
Sunset Views
The southwest-facing beach delivers spectacular sunsets over Buzzards Bay. The sky turns gold, then pink, then deep orange as the sun drops below the water. Bring a blanket and stay late.
State Reservation
Managed by the Massachusetts DCR, Horseneck Beach is well maintained with lifeguards, restrooms, outdoor showers, and protected dune habitat. A clean, safe, and natural beach experience.
Dune Walking
The dune system at Horseneck Beach is home to piping plovers and coastal grasses. Walk the designated trails through the dunes for a perspective of the beach most visitors never see.
Horseneck Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Horseneck Beach from Westport Point?
Horseneck Beach State Reservation is about a 10-minute drive from Westport Point. From 2042 Main Road, you head south on Route 88. It is a straight, easy drive with no highway needed. You can be on the sand in minutes.
Is Horseneck Beach free?
Horseneck Beach is a Massachusetts state reservation, so there is a parking fee during the summer season. As of recent seasons, daily parking is $20 for Massachusetts residents and $35 for out-of-state visitors. Walking or biking in is free. A season pass is available and pays for itself quickly if you visit regularly, and staying at Westport Point, you will.
Is Horseneck Beach good for surfing?
Yes, Horseneck Beach is one of the better surf spots on the South Coast of Massachusetts. The beach faces south into Buzzards Bay and the open Atlantic, picking up consistent swells in summer. The waves are not massive, but they are fun and reliable, good for shortboarding, longboarding, and bodyboarding. Local surfers know it well.
What is the best beach in Westport MA?
Horseneck Beach is widely considered the best beach in Westport, Massachusetts, and one of the best in the state. It offers nearly two miles of sandy shoreline, strong surf, and dramatic sunset views. Close to Westport Point.
Is there parking at Horseneck Beach?
Yes. Horseneck Beach State Reservation has a large parking lot that accommodates hundreds of vehicles. On peak summer weekends the lot can fill by late morning, so arriving early is recommended. The lot is paved with restrooms and changing facilities nearby.
Are there vacation rentals near Horseneck Beach?
Yes. 2042 Main Road is a waterfront summer rental at Westport Point, about 10 minutes from Horseneck Beach. It is a 3-bedroom, 2-bath colonial that sleeps 6, with harbor views, dock access, and kayaks. Rated 4.92 stars on Airbnb with Superhost status, available mid-May through August.
How does Horseneck Beach compare to Cape Cod?
Horseneck Beach rivals any beach on Cape Cod for natural beauty, with miles of sand, clear water, and stunning sunsets, but without the Cape Cod crowds and traffic. There is no bridge to cross, no bumper-to-bumper Route 6. Westport, Massachusetts offers the same coastal New England experience at a fraction of the congestion. Many visitors who discover Horseneck Beach never go back to the Cape.
Looking for more? See the full Things To Do guide →
Stay at 2042 Main Road
Stay at 2042 Main Road, a waterfront colonial at Westport Point, just 10 minutes from Horseneck Beach. 3 bedrooms, dock access, kayaks, and sunset views over the harbor. Book on Airbnb.
Book on Airbnb