Hide from the Crowds at New England's Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Beaches

Gloucester, Massachusetts

This one is at the top of our list of best off-the-beaten-path beaches. Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester, MA is made up of a beautiful stretch of white sand shoreline. Hit the waves to swim, body surf, or boogie board during high tide. And at low tide, walk out to peaceful Salt Island. 

Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day, plus restrooms and showers are available from 9am to 6pm daily. Guests are now able to book a parking spot up to 10 days in advance at the price of $35 per car on weekends. After a day in the sand, spend your evening relaxing at nearby Beauport Hotel Gloucester for a true North Shore experience.

Wells, Maine

Venture to Maine for a coastline that’s longer than that of California. For those who are looking for more of an adventure, hike along the grasslands at the base of Mount Agamenticus and meander through an abandoned apple orchard and aspen grove to arrive at beloved Laudholm Beach. 

With guided walking and kayaking tours, expansive coastline, and unique shells, this hidden gem is worth the journey. You won’t want your beach day to end, so continue the adventure by staying seaside during your getaway.

Owls Head, Maine

This little Maine treasure is tucked away between two rocky areas in the Mussel Ridge Channel. While it’s also a bit of an adventure to get to, the stretching shoreline of the crescent-shaped beach and collection of scattered islands are a worthy reward. Birch Point Beach State Park is the perfect place for a sun-soaked picnic, dip in the surf (though it’s pretty chilly), or a leisure day of fishing. Stay nearby for a quick trip back to your unique Maine haven.

Hyannis, Massachusetts

If you seek a stretch of glowing sand that is rarely crowded, Kalmus Beach is your new playground. The south-facing side is known for sporty activities like windsurfing, beach volleyball, kite flying, and sailing. 

Visit the harbor-facing side if you’re looking to unload a picnic, go out for a swim, or sunbathe as this side is more sheltered from the wind. Book your stay on the Cape and avoid the heartbreak of having to leave the views of deep blue at the end of the day.

Portsmouth, Rhode Island

Teddy’s Beach in Portsmouth, RI is truly a secret. You won’t find much information online, so learning about it is best done like we did in the olden days: by visiting. With no admission or parking fee, and no lifeguards or bathrooms, you might find that you have the sand all to yourself. Even better, this beach on the northern tip of Aquidneck Island allows dogs all year-round. Stay in nearby Newport to mix a little city magic with this beach’s natural beauty for a balanced summer escape.

Guilford, Connecticut

This 25-acre beach in Guilford, CT features a playground, boardwalk, volleyball court, basketball court, and outdoor showers to keep the whole family busy. Grab your favorite beach chair and get ready to take in the views along the lapping water of the Long Island Sound. At the end of the day, return to a spa, inn, seaside hotel, or bed and breakfast depending on your preferences.

New England Inns and Resorts was founded in 1907 and has been devoted to providing unforgettable experiences ever since. With over 300 hotels, inns, resorts, and more located across New England, we support exceptional hospitality with a dedication to keeping it local at every location. 

Crashing waves and cool blue water await you. There’s no place like the beaches of New England in the summer—let us help you find the perfect place to wash off the salt and sand after a relaxing day in the sun.