Wingaersheek Beach
Gloucester, MA
Wingaersheek Beach sits at the end of Atlantic Street in West Gloucester, where the Annisquam River opens into Ipswich Bay. At low tide a broad sandbar and tide pools appear, and the Annisquam lighthouse stands across the water. Big boulders at the far end are a magnet for climbing kids.
The sandbar, tide pools, and lighthouse view make it a proper family day, though reservations and fees put a price on summer visits.
How we score beachesCome at low tide when the sandbar and tide pools open up, then check the tide chart before you wander far. Non-residents need a reservation for parking in summer, so book the day before.
From Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, non-residents must reserve parking through the city's Blinkay app or website, with no cash taken at the gate. Weekday rates run $40 and weekend rates run $45.
The city lists handicapped accessible spaces at the beach, and restrooms and showers are on site, though the beach itself is soft sand.
Dogs are banned May 1 through September 30. In the off season, unleashed dogs are allowed on odd numbered days under the city's odd even rule.
Peak season runs from late June through August, with lifeguards from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The shallow tide flats warm quickly on sunny days.
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