10 Best Beaches in Dennis, Massachusetts on Cape Cod

Dennis, Massachusetts, is consistently rated as one of the top beach towns in the state. With a variety of options from Cape Cod Bay beaches to Nantucket Sound beaches and even delightful freshwater pond spots, there's something for everyone. In this post, I’ll highlight the 10 best beaches in Dennis, sharing my personal favorites and essential details to help you plan your visit.

Growing up, my favorite beach was Mayflower Beach. I loved its expansive tidal flats, warm waters, and the convenience of a nearby snack shack. Over the years, Mayflower’s popularity has skyrocketed, and other Dennis beaches are also gaining attention. I aim to provide a comprehensive list of beaches in Dennis, including their pros and cons.

Parking Information

Be aware that many public beaches in Dennis charge parking fees during the summer months. Residents can purchase season passes for $50, while non-residents have the option of a seasonal pass for $180, a weekly pass for $90, or a daily pass for $30. Fees typically apply from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, with no charges during the off-season.

Tips for Your Visit

Arrive Early: To secure a parking spot, aim to arrive by 9:30 AM on sunny summer weekends. Popular beaches fill up quickly!

Dog Policy: Most public beaches prohibit dogs from the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day, with specific exceptions for areas with piping plover nests. Violators may face a $100 fine.

 

Cape Cod Bay Beaches

Dennis boasts several stunning beaches along Cape Cod Bay, known for their large tidal flats and family-friendly atmosphere. Here are the top options:

 

1. Mayflower Beach

Mayflower Beach is arguably the most popular beach on Cape Cod. Its warm waters and calm surf make it ideal for families. This beach offers fantastic amenities, including lifeguards, restrooms, changing rooms, showers, and a snack shack. The expansive tidal flats at low tide stretch about half a mile into the bay, providing plenty of space for beachgoers and fun tidal pools to explore.

Parking: Fees apply from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

 

2. Chapin Beach

Just a short distance from Mayflower, Chapin Beach is quieter and more remote. While it lacks some amenities (only seasonal lifeguards and portable restrooms), it offers the same beautiful water and tidal flats. The smaller parking lot accommodates about 75 cars, making it a peaceful alternative.

Parking: Fees apply from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

 

3. Corporation Beach

A beloved summer destination, Corporation Beach features calm waves and plenty of space for beachgoers. Amenities include lifeguards, restrooms, changing rooms, showers, and a snack shack. It’s perfect for families, with areas for beach walks and picnics.

Parking: Fees apply from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

 

4. Howes Street Beach

Located just a tenth of a mile from Corporation Beach, Howes Street Beach is less crowded and a great option if you can’t find parking at Corporation. While it has fewer amenities, it provides easy access to Corporation’s offerings.

Parking: Fees apply from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

 

5. Cold Storage Beach

Nestled near Sesuit Harbor, Cold Storage Beach features clear, warm waters and limited tidal flats. It’s a beautiful spot for swimming and relaxing, with views of boats coming in and out of the harbor.

Parking: Only available for Dennis resident beach pass holders from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

 

6. Crowes Pasture OSV Beach

For off-road enthusiasts, Crowes Pasture OSV Beach offers a pristine, remote experience. Accessible by driving through the dunes, it requires an OSV permit available only to Dennis residents. Hiking to the beach is also an option!

Parking: Ample parking on the beach.

 

Nantucket Sound Beaches

The areas of West Dennis and Dennis Port along Nantucket Sound feature stunning beaches perfect for swimming and watersports. Here are two top picks:

 

7. West Dennis Beach

West Dennis Beach boasts a stunning 1.5-mile stretch of undeveloped shoreline. It's popular for swimming and beach walks, with seasonal amenities like restrooms, changing rooms, and lifeguards. The beach is also a hotspot for kite surfing, making it an exciting place to visit.

Parking: Fees apply from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

 

8. Sea Street Beach

Adjacent to the Pelham House Resort, Sea Street Beach is a busy spot known for its refreshing waves. However, it has limited public beach space due to private property on both ends. A steep staircase leads down to the beach, so plan accordingly.

Parking: Fees apply from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

 

Freshwater Pond Beaches

While Dennis is famous for its ocean beaches, it also offers beautiful freshwater options. The only pond with public swimming is Scargo Pond.

 

9. Princess Beach

Situated on the eastern shore of Scargo Pond, Princess Beach is a hidden gem. With white sand and amenities like picnic tables, restrooms, and changing rooms, it’s perfect for swimming and relaxing. The pavilion and swing set add to the family-friendly atmosphere.

Parking: Fees apply from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

 

10. Scargo Pond Beach

Just north of Princess Beach, Scargo Pond Beach offers a more rustic experience. Though it lacks a traditional sandy beach, it's a great spot for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.

Parking: Fees apply from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

 

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this guide to the best beaches in Dennis, Massachusetts! Whether you’re looking to relax on the shores of Cape Cod Bay, enjoy the waves of Nantucket Sound, or unwind at a tranquil freshwater pond, Dennis has something for everyone. Be sure to check out the other local favorites—like Harborview Beach, Bayview Beach, and Sea Street North—during the off-season if you don’t have a resident sticker. Happy beach hopping!