Quincy’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean presents an array of beautiful beaches, each with its distinct character.
From quiet shores ideal for a peaceful read to waves that call out to the adventure seeker, there’s a coastal oasis to match every mood.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a pair of flip-flops and a beach towel is all you need to enjoy these coastal gems.
Check out what Quincy has to offer!
1. Mound Street Beach
- Distance from Quincy: 1.5 miles
- Activities: swimming, sunbathing, fishing, picnics, kayaking, paddleboarding
- Facilities: picnic spots, free parking, playground, sports fields
Nestled within Quincy Point, Mound Street Beach offers a serene coastal haven that combines urban convenience and nature’s tranquility.
This sandy sanctuary, known as the nearest beach to Quincy’s downtown, is just a stone’s throw away for local residents.
Its features extend beyond the nearly 180 yards of sandy shorelines to include sprawling playing fields, charming playgrounds, and picnic areas equipped with benches and tables.
Despite its proximity to the city, the beach remains a peaceful retreat, often less crowded and with free parking readily available for those arriving by car.
Whether you’re seeking to cool off with a summer swim, kick back on the sand, or enjoy a picnic with a view, Mound Street Beach provides an idyllic setting for a diverse array of outdoor activities.
2. Wollaston Beach
- Distance from Quincy: 2 miles
- Activities: sunbathing, picnicking, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, boating
- Amenities: restrooms, picnic tables, rentals, piers, promenade, concessions, restaurants
As the largest public beach in the area, Wollaston Beach stretches an impressive 2.3 miles, showcasing the natural beauty of Quincy Bay.
The beach is part of the historical Quincy Shore Reservation and features a lively promenade dotted with seasonal seafood restaurants, making it a favorite weekend destination.
Embracing an active lifestyle is made easy here, with walkers, cyclists, and runners taking full advantage of the long stretch.
The beach offers more than just recreational activities; it’s also a place to appreciate diverse views of Boston, South Boston, and the iconic Boston Harbor Islands.
Boasting free parking, two yacht clubs, and adjacent Marina Bay, Wollaston Beach combines natural charm with the vibrancy of city life.
Although not great for swimming, Wollaston Beach is a gem enjoyed by local residents and visitors alike.
3. George Lane Beach
- Distance from Quincy: 2 miles
- Activities: swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, boating
- Amenities: restrooms, picnic tables, playground, parking
Located along the serene coastline of North Weymouth, George Lane Beach—locally known as “New Beach”—offers a distinct charm.
This sandy beach is nestled between the Fore and Back Rivers, presenting picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere.
An ample parking area accommodates both residents and non-residents, making it a hassle-free getaway.
The beach provides restrooms and, to the delight of the younger visitors, a small playground and a basketball court.
Adjacent to the Joseph Carven Boat Ramp, it’s also a favorite spot for boat enthusiasts.
Though there are no lifeguards, visitors love the beach for its exploration opportunities at low tide, with abundant periwinkles, crabs, and jellyfish to be found.
Amid the soothing rhythm of the waves, George Lane Beach is a welcoming retreat for sunbathing, paddling, and simply enjoying the seaside ambiance.
4. Nantasket Beach
- Distance from Quincy: 11 miles
- Activities: swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, bodyboarding, surfing, volleyball
- Amenities: restrooms, showers, picnic tables, rentals, restaurants, hotels
Perched on the Atlantic shoreline in Hull, Massachusetts, Nantasket Beach welcomes visitors with its inviting, fine, light-gray sands.
A popular summer haven, it brims with diverse activities, from swimming and surfing in the blue waves to biking and hiking along the scenic trails.
This busy beach extends beyond traditional sunbathing and swimming; it offers athletic fields perfect for a game of beach volleyball, adding a fun, active dimension to your beach day.
Equipped with a bathhouse, playground, and restrooms, Nantasket Beach ensures a comfortable seaside visit.
Whether you’re looking to bask in the sun, build sandcastles, or enjoy water sports, Nantasket Beach provides an engaging and memorable beach experience.
Parking is conveniently available, making it easier for both residents and non-residents to indulge in this quintessential New England beach destination.
5. Carson Beach
- Distance from Quincy: 6 miles
- Activities: swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, kayaking, paddleboarding
- Amenities: restrooms, showers, picnic tables, volleyball nets, seasonal lifeguards
Situated in South Boston, Carson Beach offers a splendid city escape for beach lovers.
Known for its public accessibility, this beach serves as a hub of recreational activities.
From sunbathing and swimming to biking and fishing, there’s plenty to engage in.
The beach provides excellent amenities such as a lifeguard station, restrooms, rinsing showers, and a playground.
For a delightful picnic, spaces are easily available.
Accessibility is enhanced with beach wheelchairs and mats, catering to everyone’s needs.
The beach’s proximity to the JFK/UMass subway station makes it even more appealing for visitors.
So, whether you’re planning a family day out or a peaceful solo retreat, Carson Beach promises a memorable experience with its alluring charm and diverse offerings.
6. Pleasure Bay Beach
- Distance from Quincy: 8 miles
- Activities: swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, kayaking, paddleboarding, kitesurfing
- Amenities: restrooms, showers, picnic tables, seasonal lifeguards, parking
Facing the tranquil Pleasure Bay, the sandy Pleasure Bay Beach presents an appealing destination for beach enthusiasts.
Nestled alongside the harbor walk, the beach ensures a delightful day out with activities including swimming, walking, biking, and fishing.
For history buffs, a light stroll around the nearby Fort Independence offers an intriguing exploration.
The beach is well-appointed with facilities such as lifeguard stations, restrooms, and rinsing showers.
The space also invites visitors to relax in scenic picnic areas or engage in fun at the playground.
Moreover, accessibility is a key feature, with beach wheelchairs available.
The free parking spaces and the beach’s proximity to public transport are added bonuses.
For visitors seeking a convenient beach in the city, Pleasure Bay Beach is an excellent choice.
7. Revere Beach
- Distance from Quincy: 15 miles
- Activities: swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing
- Amenities: restrooms, showers, restaurants, hotels
Located 15 miles from Quincy, Revere Beach’s inviting three-mile coastline has been a cherished public space since 1896, making it the first of its kind in the United States.
Today, it remains a vibrant hub of activity, with ease of access courtesy of two MBTA Blue Line stops and free parking along Revere Boulevard.
In addition to sunbathing and swimming, the beach offers an array of activities including fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking.
Visitors may also delight in spotting Piping Plovers, an endangered shorebird that calls a portion of this beach home.
The annual International Sand Sculpting Festival garners notable attention, attracting up to a million visitors in a single weekend.
The beach’s proximity to diverse entertainment options enhances its allure, promising a rewarding visit.
8. Rexhame Beach
- Distance from Quincy: 25 miles
- Activities: swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, beachcombing
- Amenities: parking, restrooms, dog-friendly
Located 25 miles east of Quincy, Rexhame Beach is an ideal spot for family outings and one of the few beaches in the area to offer non-resident day passes.
This sandy haven, transformed from an inlet due to a storm in 1898, now bustles with activity.
Pet lovers especially favor it, as the beach openly welcomes four-legged friends, featuring a special stand stocked with dog bags and easy access to nearby hiking trails.
Those seeking more leisurely pursuits can enjoy a rest on benches dedicated to dogs by the Marshfield Canine Club.
Facilities are scarce, so bringing water and snacks is a good idea.
Not just for dogs, the beach beckons swimmers and beachcombers for a fun day with a stunning Atlantic backdrop.
9. Nahant Beach
- Distance from Quincy: 21 miles
- Activities: swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, fishing, surfing, bodyboarding, kite surfing, windsurfing
- Amenities: restrooms, showers, picnic tables, rentals
Just 21 miles from Quincy, Nahant Beach is a coastal paradise offering a wealth of activities.
Famous for its miles of clean sand and clear, gradual water, the beach is a haven for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and fishing enthusiasts alike.
While surfers enjoy the Atlantic waves, the beach also offers a fantastic setting for bodyboarding and windsurfing, among other water sports.
To ensure visitors’ convenience and comfort, the beach offers well-maintained amenities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.
Additionally, equipment rentals are available for those needing gear.
Nearby, a local restaurant and coffee shop ensure visitors are well-fed and caffeinated.
Open year-round and close to Boston, Nahant Beach is a buzzing spot offering an all-rounded beach experience for all ages.
