Incredible Coastal Adventures in Massachusetts

The coast of Massachusetts is dotted with historic landmarks, sandy beaches, rocky jetties, and a whole lot of fun. From the islands of Cape Cod to north shore fishing towns, there's so much to see and do up and down the coast. Here are a few of our favorite Massachusetts coastal adventures. Do one, do 'em all, just don't forget to grab a lobster roll along the way. 

• Cape Cod National Seashore: Forty miles of sandy beaches, marshes, historical landmarks, wild cranberry bogs, and lighthouses await you at the Cape Cod National Seashore. There's so much more than one day's worth of exploring, so reserve a site at Dune's Edge Campground, which is located less than a mile from bustling Provincetown. Make sure to catch a gorgeous sunset at Herring Cove Beach, go for a swim at Race Point Beach, and explore Cape Cod's oldest lighthouse, Highland Lighthouse, which sits on a jagged coastal cliff. 
• Old Silver Beach: On a hot summer day, there's no better place to enjoy the warm waters of Buzzards Bay than this Falmouth beach. When you're not splashing around in the waves, lounge in the soft sand and explore the rock jetty. 
• Martha's Vineyard: An exploration of Massachusett's coast isn't quite complete without an adventure to this historic island. It takes some coordination and cash to get over there, but once you're on the Vineyard, there are amazing conservation lands and coastline to explore. Be sure to check out Gay Head Lighthouse on the western tip of the island, and make time to explore the gorgeous shoreline and hiking trails at Menemsha Beach. 
• Nantucket: While you're on the Vineyard, you might as well hop over to her little sister island, Nantucket. For an all-in-one adventure, head to Brant Point Lighthouse, a historic (and adorable) lighthouse that's surrounded by a soft-sand beach. Spend the day lounging in the sun, watching the boats go by, and enjoying the absolutely picturesque landscape. 
• Marblehead: On your way up the Massachusetts coast, stop by Marblehead for a dose of history and adventure. Explore a defensive fort that's older than the United States at Fort Sewall, enjoy sweeping ocean views from a big, craggy rock at Castle Rock, and admire a 105-foot cast-iron skeletal lighthouse at Marblehead Lighthouse. 
• Good Harbor Beach: Secluded by large dunes, Good Harbor Beach offers a uniquely peaceful Massachusetts beach experience. Since parking is expensive during the day, you might want to opt for an afternoon trip since you can get in for free after 5 o'clock. Spend the day exploring nearby Gloucester, then catch a sunset and enjoy the waves. 
• Rockport: True to its name, Rockport is a rocky coastal town filled with charm and seaside adventure. Spend an afternoon exploring the quaint and quirky Bearskin Neck and cool off in the calm waters at nearby Front Beach.