Great New England Beaches to Visit

Narragansett Town Beach

Narraganset Town Beach in Rhode Island is a perfect beach for sun-and-surf lovers. The southern end hosts surfers and the attendant hang-out culture, while the center stretch near the pavilions and to-go grill are just broad enough for families to spread out without being miles from the surfline. To the north, the strand opens up for quiet walking toward the private beaches, making it a perfect couples spot as well.  If you're looking to hang 10, schedule a surfing lesson through Narragansett Surf and Skate shop.

Distance from Worcester: 71 miles (1 hour, 20 minutes)

Misquamicut State Beach

For beach purists, Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly, RI is perfect - full of old-fashioned, unpretentious fun. From its open ocean big surf, to waterslides and boardwalk attractions, to outdoor movies on the beach and summer concerts, you'll wear yourself out at Misquamicut, and be the happier for it. Hot showers make the drive home so much easier to take after a long day in the fun and sun. 

Distance from Worcester: 78 miles (1 hour, 40 minutes) 

Easton's Beach, Newport

Otherwise known as First Beach, this popular Newport spot is a hit with families for good reason--most notably, Save The Bay's fantastic beachside Exploration Center & Aquarium. Then there's that great snack bar above it. And a skate park, boogie boards for rent, a children's playground, and even a beach store because someone left the sunscreen on the kitchen table.

Distance from Worcester: 74 miles (1 hour, 20 minutes)

Ocean Beach Park

Part sandy beach, part playground, part swimming pool, Ocean Beach Park in New London, CT is a great place for a daytrip to the beach. Lots of kid-friendly activities, plus a night life that includes Cruise Nights and movie nights, this beach is a great place to take the whole family.  

Distance from Worcester: 73 miles (1 hour, 30 minutes)

Rocky Neck State Beach

Located in East Lyme, CT, Rocky Neck State Park offers a soft sandy beach, picnic areas, diverse trail systems and salt marsh viewing platforms.  Crabbing, fishing and watching for ospreys, cranes, and herons are also options at this park that features 160 campsites.

Distance from Worcester: 80 miles (1 hour, 20 minutes)

Hampton Beach

No list of great New England beaches would be complete without Hampton Beach in NH.  With more than 80 concerts in the summer, weekly fireworks displays, clean water, talent shows and movie nights, Hampton is a happening place.  

Distance from Worcester: 78 miles, (1 hour, 30 minutes)

Seabrook Beach

If the Hampton scene is not your thing, then check out the Seabrook Beach, located less than a mile south of Hampton.  Two miles of pristine sandy beaches make this spot an ideal place to relax and enjoy the sand and sun.

Distance from Worcester: 75 miles (1 hour, 30 minutes)

Old Orchard Beach

With seven miles of sandy beach, plus an amusement park, Old Orchard Beach in Maine is a favorite with kids of all ages. Nightly entertainment, weekly fireworks and plenty of activities make this beach worth the drive, and perhaps even an overnight.

Distance from Worcester: 127 miles (2 hours, 20 minutes)

Ogunquit

Consistently ranked as one of the nation's best beaches, Ogunquit Beach in Maine is a great place for walking, swimming and enjoying beach life.  The white sandy beach is three miles long, and facilities include restrooms, showers, a snack bar and gift shop.  

A town rich in culture, Ogunquit is home to the Ogunquit Playhouse and the Ogunquit Museum of American Art.  

Distance from Worcester: 102 miles (2 hours)

Long Sands Beach, York

With sand and a designated surfing area, Long Sands Beach in York is a delight for families as well as those without kids.  The mile-plus beach has plenty of room, and the surf soothes away stress.  

Distance from Worcester: 100 miles (1 hour, 55 minutes)