Located on the eastern edge of Eastham, Massachusetts, Coast Guard Beach is one of the most iconic and beloved beaches on Cape Cod. Coast Guard Beach often appears on lists of the top beaches in the United States, and for good reason.
Coast Guard is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore and offers a raw, natural Atlantic coastline experience. Backed by steep dunes and maritime forests, this beach provides some of the nicest surf conditions on the Cape.
The beach is named for the historic Coast Guard station that overlooks the dunes. Today, the station is used by the National Park Service and serves as a scenic backdrop to the beach entrance. Whether you’re a sunbather, nature lover, or surfer, Coast Guard Beach is a must-see. Here is everything you need to know to enjoy your trip.
Vacation Activities at Coast Guard Beach
Long Beach Walks
Coast Guard Beach is known for its sweeping shoreline and stunning natural beauty. A walk here offers unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean and towering dunes. Head north (to the left if looking at the water) to enjoy a less crowded stretch of sand and a peaceful, uninterrupted trek along the surf. It’s one of the best beach walks on the Cape.
As you walk further from the lifeguard-protected beach you’ll get more space. The hard-packed sand near the waterline makes for easy walking, even barefoot. If you have your dog, look at the beach signs to see where dogs are allowed. Before you go, check out the Cape Cod National Seashore pets page to see which beaches have closures due to nesting shorebirds, which happens frequently in the summer.
There is no shade along the beach, so prepare accordingly with sunscreen, and plenty of water if you plan to explore on foot. Comfortable sandals or water shoes are also a good idea for longer treks. Some stretches of the shoreline have rocks where the waves break, which isn’t great on your feet.
Swimming
The waters at Coast Guard Beach are cold, hitting the low 60’s in the height of summer. The ocean here can be powerful, with breaking waves and a steep drop-off in some areas. While it may not be ideal for timid swimmers or young children, the beach does offer refreshing conditions for more experienced ocean-goers.
The waves break off the sandbars in long, sweeping sections. perfect for body surfing and jumping into waves.
Lifeguards are on duty during the summer season, and designated swimming zones are clearly marked with flags. These areas are your safest bet, especially considering the number of seals that frequent the shoreline—and the great white sharks that follow them. Sharks feed off the shoreline here all season long, and they’re not usually a problem for human. But there still is a risk.
Be alert for shark warnings posted by the National Park Service. Flags and signage at the entrance provide up-to-date information about water conditions and potential hazards. Always swim with a buddy, and avoid the water at dawn or dusk or when water visibility is low, especially if you’re by yourself.
Learn how to avoid being bitten by a great white shark.
Fishing at Coast Guard Beach
Surfcasting is a common activity early in the morning or just before sunset. Anglers usually try for striped bass and bluefish. The best results often come with the tide changes, so be sure to check local tide charts before heading out. Fishing is allowed beyond the protected beach area.
Popular bait choices include mackerel chunks, live eels, and seaworms. Artificial lures like topwater plugs and soft plastics also work well when fish are active near the surface. Watch for diving birds—they often indicate schools of baitfish, who are usually followed by hungry bluefish and stripers. If you can locate a bluefish blitz you’ll see a lot of action. Make sure to use wire leaders or else the voracious bluefish will chew off your line.
You’ll need a Massachusetts saltwater fishing permit, which can be obtained online here. Make sure to stay away from the lifeguard-supervised swimming zones while casting, and be aware that hooked fish can attract sharks to the area. There’s a lot of seals here feeding back and forth all day long, which has impacted surfcasting success rates. Due to this, fishing success rates have declined drastically over the years.
Sunrises at Coast Guard Beach
Few places offer a better sunrise than Coast Guard Beach. Facing due east, the beach gives a full view of the sun rising directly over the Atlantic Ocean. The sky often bursts into color, painting the waves and sand in soft oranges, pinks, and golds.
Early morning is also the most peaceful time of day here—before the shuttle buses arrive and the crowds settle in.
Bring a thermos of coffee and a camera, and plan to arrive well before sunrise for the full experience. It’s a great time for quiet reflection, photography, or a brisk morning walk. You’ll enjoy a nice walk back to the parking lot too unless you stay long enough for the shuttle buses to start running.
Sunsets
While Coast Guard Beach is not ideal for direct sunset views over water (since it faces east), the experience is still worth noting. As the sun sinks behind the dunes, it casts a warm, golden glow over the sand and sea grass.
This is a great time to explore the marsh trails behind the beach, where the fading light reflects beautifully off tidal pools and estuaries. The cooler air and smaller crowds make sunset strolls especially pleasant. The boardwalk is a good spot to watch sunsets from.
For a classic over-the-water sunset, head to nearby Rock Harbor in Orleans or First Encounter Beach in Eastham. Both offer panoramic views of Cape Cod Bay and are popular with photographers and families alike. Or travel the Brewster beaches, and try to time your visit to see sunset at low tide as it settles beyond the Brewster Flats. All of these will offer a much more satisfying sunset than you’ll find at Coast Guard Beach.
Beach Activities
Whether you’re tossing a frisbee, digging for shells, or just stretching out with a good book, there’s plenty to do here. The beach has a wide, flat profile with ample space for setting up towels and umbrellas, especially if you walk a short distance from the main entrance.
The sand is clean and soft, though it can be hot underfoot in peak sun. Families with kids often enjoy building sandcastles or flying kites when the breeze picks up off the water.
It gets pretty busy here during the summer season. For a more peaceful visit, consider going in the early or late season when the shuttle bus isn’t running. The parking lot is so far from the beach that few people are willing to make the long walk. If you’re willing to walk a ways from the protected beach you’ll also find more space and privacy.
Surfing and Body Boarding
Coast Guard Beach offers fantastic surf conditions depending on the tides and wind. Local surfers hit the waves early before the lifeguard zones are enforced, and bodyboarding is a favorite for teenagers and adults alike. There are some great sandbars right off the main beach which shape the waves to break in long, smooth sections. When conditions are right, Coast Guard is one of the best surfing beaches on Cape Cod.
Surfing is allowed outside the designated swimming areas. Make sure to follow National Park Service guidelines, and always stay aware of marine wildlife—especially seals and sharks. It’s best to surf in groups and keep a close eye on your surroundings. Because it’s inevitable that a seal will swim by between you and the shoreline.
While wetsuits are not required, they are recommended due to the cold Atlantic water, even in mid-summer. Surfboard are available at surf shops nearby in Eastham and Orleans.
Family Activities
Coast Guard Beach is a great choice for families with older kids who can manage waves and deeper water. Teens enjoy boogie boarding and exploring, while parents appreciate the safe, well-maintained facilities.
For toddlers and younger children, the surf can be rough. In that case, consider spending part of your day at beaches on Cape Cod Bay. They offer warmer waters and gentler, shallower conditions. The sandbars at Coast Guard aren’t exposed at low tide the way they are at some other beaches, so there’s not as much room for small kids to run around in very shallow water.
The boardwalk to the beach is long but accessible, with a gradual slope suitable for strollers and wagons. There are no steep stairs, making it manageable for families hauling gear. But keep in mind that all that gear has to be loaded into the shuttle bus, so plan to limit what you bring (which can be had especially if you’ve got younger children).
Kayaking and Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Surfing is popular at Coast Guard, particularly during mornings or after storms. Paddle boarding and kayaking in the surf here is more risky due to open ocean exposure and shark activity. It’s not recommended unless you’re very experienced and traveling in groups.
Fishing in a kayak is even more risky, as great white sharks are known to attack hooked fish as they’re being reeled in. That’s one fish story you may want to avoid while you’re in a thin plastic kayak.
For safer paddling, explore inland waters like Nauset Marsh or Great Pond. You can launch from Salt Pond to access the area just behind Coast Guard beach. Nauset Marsh offers calm, scenic paddling without the dangers of open surf. Learn more about the best places to kayak on cape cod.
Best Books to Read at Coast Guard Beach
The Great Beach, so named by Henry David Thoreau in his classic book Cape Cod, starts here and extends up the Outer Cape coastline. Thoreau took an extended journey up the coastline and outlines it in this book, good inspiration for your own visit.
About two miles south of the Coast Guard Beach parking lot was the location of The Outermost House, a great summer beach read about author Henry Beston’s year spent living in a beach shack on the dunes. This book describes life here across all four seasons, from the beautiful summers to the dreary grey of winter.
Beston’s shack was claimed by erosion in the Blizzard of 1978, meeting a similar fate to the original parking lot. Erosion is one of the starkest constants of life on cape cod. But this book remains a classic and is a worthy ready for any visitor here.
Facilities and Amenities
Parking and Shuttle Buses
Parking is limited at Coast Guard Beach during peak season. The original parking lot washed away in 1978 and was replaced in the early 80’s by the Little Creek Shuttle Lot on Doane Road. Visitors need to park there and take the free shuttle bus to the beach entrance.
The shuttle runs frequently and is the only option during high summer unless you have an accessible parking permit. The National Park Services does a good job running the shuttle. But it does complicate the start of your beach trip if you have lots of kids with lots of stuff to to carry.
Dogs aren’t allowed on the shuttle bus, so you’ll either need to make the long walk or drop your pet off with someone at the beach entrance before parking.
Plan ahead and arrive early on busy weekends to ensure a smooth visit. Off-season when the shuttle service stops running the beach is much more quiet and peaceful. Since Coast Guard Beach is the first beach you come to as you drive up route 6, it’s fairly popular. But the lot doesn’t fill up as quickly as the smaller lot at nearby Nauset Light Beach, so it’s still a good choice even on busy summer weekend days.
Parking Fees
The u.s. national park service has made access to the coast guard beach affordable to all visitors. a one-day parking pass or season-long pass for your vehicle can be purchased. there are also beach fees for walk-ins, bicycles, and motorcycles. Fees can be paid using a credit card at the entrance booth. Fees are very reasonable compared to other beaches on cape cod, especially given how awesome Coast Guard is.
if you are over 65 you are eligible for a lifetime national parks pass at a reduced rate which grants access to you and all passengers in your car.
all of the national seashore beaches have several free admission days in the summer, check their site for exact dates. you can also access the beach after 4:30pm for free. Note that the shuttle doesn’t run in the offseason, so while you’ll get free parking then you’ll also get free exercise as you’ll need to walk to the beach.
the money from sticker fees at coast guard beach is directed back to the national seashore beaches to provide the bathrooms, changing rooms, outdoor showers, lifeguards and park rangers that keep the park safe, clean and enjoyable for the thousands of visitors who enjoy these unspoiled cape cod beaches each year.
Restrooms and Changing Areas
Restrooms are located near the beach access point and are maintained by the National Park Service. They are open seasonally and cleaned regularly. Restrooms are also available in the parking lot area. The National Park Service does a good job maintaining the bathrooms, so they’re usually clean and in good shape.
Showers
Outdoor rinse stations are available near the boardwalk for washing off sand and salt after a long beach day. There are no indoor showers or private changing rooms.
Picnic Tables
There are a few picnic tables near the entrance, but they fill up fast. If you want a beachfront picnic, bring a blanket or portable chairs and set up on the sand. Be sure to pack out what you pack in. Trash can be disposed of in containers in the parking lot area.
Beach Concessions
There are no food concessions at Coast Guard Beach. Sorry kids, no ice cream truck! Bring snacks, water, and a cooler if you plan to stay all day. Nearby Eastham has several convenient stores and takeout options if you need to restock. For fastest service during the summer and especially on weekends, look for options with online ordering to save the wait.
Salt pond national seashore visitor center
The salt pond visitor center is located near the entrance to coast guard beach, adjacent to route 6. It’s a good stopping off point to get more information if you’re new to Cape Cod or the National Seashore beaches. It’s a great place to kill some time if you have kids. There’s a free museum, educational movies, and some hiking trails around Salt Pond
a large sign on the eastbound side of the roadway near the stop lights at the salt pond visitor center will inform you of the parking lot capacity at coast guard and the other seashore beaches further up the highway.
Coast Guard Beach Dog Rules
Leashed dogs are allowed at Coast Guard Beach (and most other National Seashore beaches) beyond the lifeguard-protected areas. Be aware of seasonal restrictions due to piping plovers or other nesting shorebirds. The signs at the beach entrance will let you know where pets are allowed. Make sure to clean up after your pet and keep them under control at all times.
All cape cod national seashore beaches including Coast Guard Beach share the same dog rules and regulations:
- dogs are allowed beyond the lifeguard protected sections of the beach all summer long
- dogs are required to remain leashed – 6 foot leash max. tickets are given to violators, so be aware
- pets not allowed on areas closed for nesting shorebirds
- clean up poop!
keep in mind dogs aren’t allowed on the shuttle bus at Coast Guard Beach, so plan accordingly. before trying to plan a trip to coast guard beach be sure to check out the national seashore’s dogs info page learn the latest pet restrictions due to nesting birds.
if this beach is closed to dogs there usually are several other cape cod national seashore beaches that still have pet access. Learn more about dog-friendly beaches in eastham.
Sharks at Coast Guard Beach
Great white sharks are a reality at all Outer Cape beaches, and Coast Guard Beach is no exception. Sharks are constantly being spotted in the beaches up and down the coastline from this beach. Be shark-smart: swim near lifeguards, stay in groups, and avoid murky water or areas with seals. Most incidents occur when people swim too far from shore.
The beach uses a flag warning system to communicate shark sightings and other safety conditions. Emergency bleeding kits are installed on site, and rangers are trained in first aid. Stay informed and follow all posted guidelines.
For more information:
Things to do nearby
There are lots of great activities in Eastham and nearby towns. Check out nearby Nauset Lighthouse, located at Nauset Light Beach. The Three Sisters Lighthouses are also located nearby. Learn more about lighthouses on Cape Cod.
If you’re visiting with your dog, check out dog-friendly activities in eastham, look for dog-friendly eastham restaurants, or find nearby dog walks and hiking trails.
Summary: Coast Guard Beach
Coast Guard Beach in Eastham is one of Cape Cod’s most scenic and well-preserved coastal destinations. With strong waves, clean sand, and rich natural surroundings, it’s perfect for active travelers, surfers, and families with older kids. It offers both solitude and adventure—if you plan ahead and respect the wild beauty of the Outer Cape.
Just remember to arrive early on weekends and peak summer days, use the shuttle, pack essentials, and have fun! With those tips in mind, you’ll have an unforgettable day at one of America’s top-rated beaches.
