Updated July 2026
We are fortunate in New England to have access to a variety of ocean beaches whether you are looking for beautiful white sand, rocky coastlines, calm seas or rolling waves. Good Harbor Beach is one of those beaches you should put in your must visit list. Located at 99 Thatcher Road Gloucester, MA is Good Harbor Beach. Passes must be reserved in advance. The $40 fee is worth it.
There is ample parking, clean restrooms, a snack shack and a small beach store. There are lifeguards and we have seen local police at the entrance and walking the beach. The beach itself is fairly big with plenty of space. It is usually busy, but we do not feel over crowded or we like we did not have space.
The cool thing about this beach is when the tide is low a land bridge forms where you can walk to a small island to explore. It provides a great view of the beach.
The waves are usually pretty good here, which is the reason this is my daughters favorite beach.
There is also this cool salt creek you can explore and swim in. The color of the water almost reminds me of the water in the southern part of the country.
We have visited Good Harbor at least once a year for the past several years and it has become one of our favorites with the fun waves, relaxing beach feel, fun creek to explore and amenities.
On your way to the beach or on the way home make sure you stop at Castaway Cafe in Gloucester for coffee, tea, smoothies and some food options along with a cute beach store. My daughter had a coffee and my husband and I had smoothies. They were so good.
