Herring Cove Beach
Herring Cove Beach
4.5
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Part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, Herring Cove is Provincetown's most popular beach.
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- Sunshine6129503 contributionsBeach games without being restrictedAnother wonderful visit. We were in Ptown for an event and had a free day. From the parking lot head left down the beach for a 10-15 minutes walk. Soon enough you'll see people enjoying the sun all over their bodies. Stop, strip, and continue walking until you find a nice place to set up. Bring your drink of choice, food and enjoy the day. We were a group of 3 couples so we only walked another 2-3 minutes after shedding our clothes. A good time was had by all. The couple next to us even joined us for a few beach games when we needed 4 on 4. We mixed up the couples and the girls vs boys games were very competitive. No need to put anything on if you go for walks continuing down the beach. My partner and I walked down to the lighthouse, we passed many other similar people and no one seemed to care. Go, walk left, leave your suits behind and enjoy the day.Visited July 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten April 4, 2024
- drwatson32Shawnee, Oklahoma1,512 contributionsFood and a shop available hereWe checked out this beach while driving around Cape Cod. This one seems to be the place to go if you want food or other miscellaneous items. I especially liked the whale and shark artwork outside the shop building!Visited June 2024Traveled with familyWritten June 2, 2024
- Crystal GHouston, Texas4 contributionsLoved it!We brought a picnic and spent a couple of hours here after our morning whale watching cruise. We parked in the lot north of the bathrooms (very clean). The beach was very quiet and beautiful! This beach has lots of colored rock and quite a few shells to find. My husband took a nap and my daughter and I enjoyed walking the beach looking for rocks and shells. Definitely recommend some kind of footwear if you like long walks to protect your feet from the shells/rocks. We really enjoyed our time here. So peaceful!Visited June 2024Traveled with familyWritten June 11, 2024
- RICART75Peru, Indiana2,360 contributionsAnother site worth a visit.....We visited numerous beaches in our exploration of Cape Cod's coastline; and once again came upon a site affording a wonderful opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area. Enjoying off-season travel; early May allowed us to leisurely view, stroll and immerse ourselves in an uncrowded part of the Cape. As we've written in review after review; this is yet another spot worth a visit.Visited May 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 18, 2024
- Brendad13Massachusetts200 contributionsBest beach on Cape Cod!This is the best beach in our opinion to go to on the case. It has a snack bar very clean restrooms and a short walk to beach from parking lot. We stayed until dusk without a big bite (unlike some of the other marshy beaches). It’s just beautiful sand with a beautiful view. We had a 6 month old baby with us and just loved it.Visited July 2024Traveled with familyWritten July 30, 2024
- Sunshine045473368711 contributionBeach updatesNew sand moved in by storms. To day nice breeze Water has warmed up to a fine point. Rangers doing their job patrolling all of the beach , it’s not just the piping plover patrols. Keep a swim suit handy.Visited August 2024Traveled with familyWritten August 15, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
981 reviews
Excellent
680
Very good
239
Average
48
Poor
11
Terrible
3
Mike71553
Sharon, MA670 contributions
Sep 2021 • Friends
Beautiful beach with plenty of parking. Off season there is no charge to park
From here on a clear day you can see the Plymouth highlands area across Cape Cod bay. They say with binoculars you can see the tops of the Boston skyscrapers from here.
From here on a clear day you can see the Plymouth highlands area across Cape Cod bay. They say with binoculars you can see the tops of the Boston skyscrapers from here.
Written September 28, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Scott M
Cambridge, MA494 contributions
Jul 2020
We checked the National Seashore website to ensure Herring Cove would be open before we made the drive. It's open to a point – the snack bar seems to be closed and the inside showers are as well (outdoor ones are in operation), and there are no lifeguards. (There might be at Race Point?) That being said, the beach itself is open.
The parking lot was maybe 1/4 full when we arrived at about 10am. When we got onto the beach, there were a fair number of people who were making some effort to keep themselves separated, but honestly it was too close for our comfort. We always walk 10-15 minutes down the beach; at this end, the closest neighbors were 40-50 feet or more. It's also where we're comfortable going nude/topless (me/her). Several people stopped by to ask if we ever got hassled for this (nope, not for the past 5-6 years anyway); a few others joined in, but nobody much cares (if anything, even more of the "nobody much cares" than ever).
When we left at about 2pm, the north end of the beach was getting quite a lot more crowded, and it was actually tough to maintain a respectable distance getting back to the car.
On the whole, it's business as usual, but it would maybe be better if the folks by the beach entrance made the effort to spread out a bit more.
The parking lot was maybe 1/4 full when we arrived at about 10am. When we got onto the beach, there were a fair number of people who were making some effort to keep themselves separated, but honestly it was too close for our comfort. We always walk 10-15 minutes down the beach; at this end, the closest neighbors were 40-50 feet or more. It's also where we're comfortable going nude/topless (me/her). Several people stopped by to ask if we ever got hassled for this (nope, not for the past 5-6 years anyway); a few others joined in, but nobody much cares (if anything, even more of the "nobody much cares" than ever).
When we left at about 2pm, the north end of the beach was getting quite a lot more crowded, and it was actually tough to maintain a respectable distance getting back to the car.
On the whole, it's business as usual, but it would maybe be better if the folks by the beach entrance made the effort to spread out a bit more.
Written July 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jmgrier
Marlborough, MA110 contributions
Jun 2021
Clean restrooms, water fountain.
It was too chilly for us to get in the water, but there were minimal waves so it would be great for kids to wade. Just watch for sharks, and if you are bringing a dog, check NPS for closures due to shorebird nesting.
It was too chilly for us to get in the water, but there were minimal waves so it would be great for kids to wade. Just watch for sharks, and if you are bringing a dog, check NPS for closures due to shorebird nesting.
Written June 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RJB1215
Fort Lauderdale, FL3,359 contributions
Aug 2020 • Friends
Great beach within biking distance to downtown. The beach offers bathrooms, bike racks and beach Matts to the beach area. Mandatory masks while walking to your beach area is preferable. We’ve been back several times since!
Written August 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sunshine04547336871
1 contribution
Aug 2024 • Family
New sand moved in by storms.
To day nice breeze
Water has warmed up to a fine point.
Rangers doing their job patrolling all of the beach , it’s not just the piping plover patrols. Keep a swim suit handy.
To day nice breeze
Water has warmed up to a fine point.
Rangers doing their job patrolling all of the beach , it’s not just the piping plover patrols. Keep a swim suit handy.
Written August 15, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sunshine612950
3 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
Another wonderful visit. We were in Ptown for an event and had a free day. From the parking lot head left down the beach for a 10-15 minutes walk. Soon enough you'll see people enjoying the sun all over their bodies. Stop, strip, and continue walking until you find a nice place to set up. Bring your drink of choice, food and enjoy the day.
We were a group of 3 couples so we only walked another 2-3 minutes after shedding our clothes.
A good time was had by all. The couple next to us even joined us for a few beach games when we needed 4 on 4. We mixed up the couples and the girls vs boys games were very competitive.
No need to put anything on if you go for walks continuing down the beach. My partner and I walked down to the lighthouse, we passed many other similar people and no one seemed to care.
Go, walk left, leave your suits behind and enjoy the day.
We were a group of 3 couples so we only walked another 2-3 minutes after shedding our clothes.
A good time was had by all. The couple next to us even joined us for a few beach games when we needed 4 on 4. We mixed up the couples and the girls vs boys games were very competitive.
No need to put anything on if you go for walks continuing down the beach. My partner and I walked down to the lighthouse, we passed many other similar people and no one seemed to care.
Go, walk left, leave your suits behind and enjoy the day.
Written April 4, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brendad13
Massachusetts200 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
This is the best beach in our opinion to go to on the case. It has a snack bar very clean restrooms and a short walk to beach from parking lot. We stayed until dusk without a big bite (unlike some of the other marshy beaches). It’s just beautiful sand with a beautiful view. We had a 6 month old baby with us and just loved it.
Written July 30, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HedwardsB
Columbia, SC47 contributions
Jul 2022 • Solo
I visited Herron Cove Beach on the Fourth of July, and it was crowded but I found a spot easily. There are smooth rocks as you enter the ocean rather and shells—comfortable to walk across rather than sharp. The water was clear and calm. Beautiful beach and water!
Written July 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Linda P
Ballston Spa, NY408 contributions
May 2023 • Family
You can drive to this beach and all the amenities are there in season- lots of parking, bathrooms, changing room, food, picnic tables, entrance to bike paths, but I love the walking path through the tidal river found much closer to town on RT6. Opening is marked with a sign, bicycles often line the fence. You cannot park a car here. Go at low tide, and wear water shoes or bare feet. Nature back there is quiet and lovely. Birds may dive during particular nesting seasons and entrance onto the ocean portion is often roped so nests are undisturbed so follow the footprints around the ropes. You can walk to this portion from the formal beach area and even continue to the breakwater back across to town, but it will be a couple hours, bring water. Coyotes do not seem to be a problem currently but I always keep my eyes open and DO NOT eat food.
Written May 31, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Crystal G
Houston, TX4 contributions
Jun 2024 • Family
We brought a picnic and spent a couple of hours here after our morning whale watching cruise. We parked in the lot north of the bathrooms (very clean). The beach was very quiet and beautiful! This beach has lots of colored rock and quite a few shells to find. My husband took a nap and my daughter and I enjoyed walking the beach looking for rocks and shells. Definitely recommend some kind of footwear if you like long walks to protect your feet from the shells/rocks. We really enjoyed our time here. So peaceful!
Written June 11, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I just saw your question, so sorry for the late reply :(
No kayak rental at Herring Cove, however, kayaks can be rented in town on the harbor from Coyote
Kayaks, or Flyer's Boat Rental & boat shop.
Written July 28, 2024
Roam50607256841
Taunton, Massachusetts
Are vehicles with HP placard admitted free
Written September 5, 2020
No. However, someone who is permanently disabled can get a lifetime pass valid at all national parks, wildlife refuges, and historical sites managed by federal agencies for no charge.
Written September 6, 2020
At low tide there are a bunch of smaller rocks and shells to navigate, but towards the top of the beach’s area is it a course sand
Written August 4, 2021
We know nude sun bathing is not legal, but it’s tolerated. At about what point walking down the beach from the main parking lot is it ‘safe’ for my wife and I to set up camp and layout nude? Is there a marker or milestone we could see to help us know once we’re there?
Written November 26, 2019
The topographical details and the signage seem to be different every summer, so things could be changed next year. However, last summer straight people went nude right at and beyond the signs about dogs not being allowed beyond that point. One of the pictures that I posted in conjunction with my 2019 review shows the signs.
This point is about a 10-minute walk from the far left entrance of the parking lot. Walking another 10 minutes will get you past the area where the dunes have been flattened and into the gay section. The gay men’s nude section is about 5 minutes’ walk farther.
My husband and I tend to walk briskly. If you proceed at a more leisurely pace, adjust the times accordingly.
Written November 30, 2019
Yes, you can park for free or also take a ride by bike. It's about 20 min by bike from downtown.
Written July 24, 2017
Whats the best ways to see the whales?
Is the 5 hr ferry out to nantuckett to spend a day?
What about hyannis? Take a car drive over?
Written June 11, 2017
The best way to see the whales up close is to go to Provincetown and take a whale watching trip from MacMillan Wharf. Nantucket is an island about 30 miles out of Hyannis. The Cape and Island Steamship Authority has ships leaving for Nantucket about every hour. The high-speed ferry cost about $50.00. It only takes 1-1/2 to two hours for the Hyannis/Nantucket trip. Cape Cod has the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority. Buses run from Wood's Hole in Falmouth to P-Town. A bus trip on any "fixed Route" is $2.00 or $1.00 for seniors. Hyannis has a trolley that makes a loop every 1/2 hour. The trolley cost $1.00 I hope this helps you.
Written June 12, 2017
Lonna D
Boston, Massachusetts
Can you park at Herring Cove overnight with season pass?
Written August 18, 2016
No over night parking but you can sit there in your car until the sun comes up. A little quirky National Seashore issue. Be aware that Herring Cove Beach is a pick-up place for gay men after dark.
Written June 12, 2017
Is there a cost for parking and beach access?
Written August 1, 2016
There is a fee. We did not have a car, so I'm not sure what the parking fee is, but it was 3 dollars per person to walk in. Our kids were free. We Ubered there, but if you do this, know that there is not a data signal out there, so you will need to call traditional cab for pick up. The shuttle out there from town is very unpredictable, and it's cash only. Hope that helps!
Written August 1, 2016
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