THE 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
Horseneck Beach State Reservation is the crown jewel of the Westport, Massachusetts coastline. Stretching nearly two miles along Buzzards Bay, it is one of the finest beaches in the state — a broad sweep of clean sand backed by rolling dunes, with surf that draws swimmers, surfers, and bodyboarders all summer long. The beach faces south and west, which means the sunsets here are extraordinary: the sky opens up over the water with nothing between you and the horizon.
As a state reservation, Horseneck Beach is well maintained by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. There are lifeguards on duty during peak season, restrooms, outdoor showers, and a large paved parking lot. The dunes are protected habitat, and the beach has a wild, unspoiled quality that sets it apart from more developed shores elsewhere in New England. Piping plovers nest in the dunes. Ospreys circle overhead. The feel is of nature holding its ground.
What makes Horseneck Beach remarkable for visitors to Westport Point is the proximity. From 2042 Main Road, it is a 10-minute drive south on Route 88 — no highway, no bridge, no tourist traffic. You can have breakfast on the harbor at Westport Point, spend the day at the beach, and be home for sunset over the harbor without ever sitting in traffic. People who have vacationed on Cape Cod for years discover Horseneck Beach and wonder why they ever fought the Bourne Bridge. The beach is just as beautiful, the water just as clear, and the crowd a fraction of what you find on the Cape.
For families with younger children or anyone looking for calmer water, Cherry & Webb Beach is another excellent option nearby. It sits on the east branch of the Westport River rather than the open bay, so the water is warmer and gentler — perfect for toddlers and for floating on a summer afternoon. Between Horseneck and Cherry & Webb, Westport, MA offers a beach day for every mood.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The calmer alternative nearby in Westport, MA. Warmer, gentler water on the Westport River — ideal for families with young children. Just minutes from both Horseneck and Westport Point.
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 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.
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.
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.
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. For a calmer experience, Cherry & Webb Beach is a great alternative — smaller, quieter, and ideal for families with young children. Both are close to Westport Point.
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.
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 June through August.
Horseneck Beach rivals any beach on Cape Cod for natural beauty — 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.
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