Get Up & Go!: Beach Day Bonanza!

In Massachusetts, day trips to the beach are a summertime tradition. That’s because our state is incredibly blessed to have dozens of seaside beaches along more than 1,500 miles of the Atlantic Ocean coastline, not to mention countless freshwater beach options at local lakes and ponds.

With just a bit of advance planning, beach outings are easy fun. Make lunch the night before,  chill your favorite beverage in the refrigerator, pack up the beach towels and sunscreen, then set the alarm early enough to get a jump on traffic. Before you know it, you’ll be on your way to a stress-free adventure filled with blue skies and smooth sand.

Of course, leave the destination to us. This week’s “Get Up & Go!” gives you plenty of beach selections that are close to home, less than 30 minutes away or if you’re up for a longer trip, roughly an hour from the Commons.

Ah, summertime at the beach – it’s a breeze!  

Revere Beach, Revere

Known as “The People’s Beach,” Revere Beach is iconic for being America’s first public beach, for once hosting the region’s largest amusement park (the Cyclone rollercoaster is considered one of the most extreme rides ever built), and for being the birthplace of Kelly’s Roast Beef. The Blizzard of ’78 nearly destroyed the beach but today, thanks to city and state improvements, Revere Beach is alive and well, offering activity and amenities for beachgoers of all ages. With four miles of sand and free parking, this is a great place for a quick beach trip - just 10 minutes from Parkside Commons.

Singing Beach, Manchester

Singing Beach gets its name from “singing sand” that is said to squeak underfoot during the warm weather months. It’s also known as one the best beaches to visit via commuter rail, for its tranquil setting and great on-site amenities, including a canteen, snack stand and bathhouse. Parking is limited and expensive ($25 per car), so be sure to arrive by 10 a.m. – including a 35 minute drive. Or take the commuter rail. Just drive to the Chelsea Commuter Rail Station on 6th Street and take a 40-minute ride to Manchester. Singingbeach is just a 15 minute walk from the station.

Wingaersheek Beach, Gloucester

Wingaersheek Beach, running along the Annisquam River and Ipswich Bay, has calm, clear waters—ideal for taking a dip with smaller children.  Low rocks serve as a makeshift playground, with shallow tide pools full of miniature sea creatures. At low tide, the beach extends out for hundreds of yards and creates a sandbar for strolling. Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day.  Food, drinks, beach toys, and restrooms are available at the concession stand. Parking is $20 during the week or $25 on weekends.

For more local beach options, follow these links for information on Winthrop Beach and Nahant Beach.