What would a family vacation on Cape Cod be without days at the beach? If you’re traveling to this sand-ringed peninsula in Massachusetts, look for these beaches that are especially good for children with safe gentle waves and shallow water.
Grays Beach, Yarmouth
A long boardwalk across the waving marsh grasses is convenient for getting your family’s gear to this beach on Cape Cod Bay. The beach slopes gently into the water, making it safe for younger children, while older ones will enjoy jumping from the platform extending into deeper water. The beach has lifeguards, but no food sales; enjoy your picnic lunch in the shade of the gazebo.
Skaket Beach, Orleans
Kids love exploring the tidal pools and playing in the warmer, shallow water of Cape Cod Bay. As the tide recedes, more pools are uncovered, and even young children can explore them safely. The soft sand is perfect for castle-building, and you’ll be able to buy lunch at the concession stand. Lifeguards are on duty in the summer.
Corporation Beach, Dennis
More shallow tidal pools entice young kids to seaside nature adventures at Corporation Beach, and the gentle shore is a good place for skimboarding. Facing Cape Cod Bay, the beach is known for gentle waves and warmer water than its ocean-facing counterparts on the southern shore. There is a snack bar and picnic area, as well as lifeguards in the summer.
Veterans Park Beach Hyannis
A pine-shaded park with a playground backs this beach in Hyannis, with soft sand sloping into the protected waters of Lewis Bay. It tends to be less crowded than some of the larger beaches, and a peaceful place for families to play.
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