Stoney Beach Woods Hole
A charming, family-friendly beach on Buzzards Bay known for its warm waters, gentle waves, and stunning sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Stoney Beach Woods Hole
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, family-friendly beach on Buzzards Bay known for its warm waters, gentle waves, and stunning sunsets.
"Charming little beach with warm, clear water and gorgeous sunsets. "
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunsets here are absolutely gorgeous and a must-see!
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Fun
Great for families with lifeguards, small waves, and sandbars for easy wading.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Serenity
Stoney Beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over Buzzards Bay. A truly magical end to a day at the beach.
Gentle Waves & Sandbars
Stoney Beach
Perfect for families, with small waves and sandbars making it easy to wade and enjoy the water safely.
Bioluminescence Magic
Stoney Beach
Experience the wonder of bioluminescence on select nights, with tiny sparks lighting up the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunsets here are absolutely gorgeous and a must-see!
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Fun
Great for families with lifeguards, small waves, and sandbars for easy wading.
✨ Bioluminescent Nights
On certain nights, you can witness magical bioluminescence in the water!
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider biking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunsets here are absolutely gorgeous and a must-see!
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Fun
Great for families with lifeguards, small waves, and sandbars for easy wading.
✨ Bioluminescent Nights
On certain nights, you can witness magical bioluminescence in the water!
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider biking.
🚿 Rinse Off
There's a convenient outdoor shower to rinse off after your beach time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Stoney Beach Woods Hole is a beloved spot, praised for its family-friendly atmosphere, warm waters, and beautiful sunsets. Visitors appreciate the calm waves and sandbars, making it ideal for young children. While parking can be limited and amenities are basic, its charm and natural beauty make it a highly recommended destination for a relaxing beach experience.
"Stony Beach is a great place to hang out for families. There is a lifeguard on duty, and the waves a relatively small. The sand bars make it easy to wade out into Buzzards Bay. Jetties protect the little beach. My grandmother lives in a house on the beach; therefore this beach has a special place in my heart"
Zachary Ackroyd
"Charming little beach. Has a shower, which is a plus. Not that stony at all. We love it!"
Aleksandra Gage
"Small but quaint beach. Early July, water was warm enough for a refreshing swim, appreciated the outdoor shower. One portable-potty. I rode part of the Shining Sea Bikeway and ended up at this little gem. Mostly sandy, some small pebbles. A little seaweed in the water, not bad. Would definitely return!!"
Barb B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stoney Beach is located in Woods Hole, MA. Many visitors arrive by car, but parking can be challenging. The Shining Sea Bikeway also leads to the beach, offering a scenic alternative.
While there isn't direct public transport to the beach itself, you can take a bus to Falmouth and then potentially a taxi or rideshare to Woods Hole. Biking is also a popular option.
If you're in Falmouth, consider biking the Shining Sea Bikeway directly to Stoney Beach for a pleasant journey.
Woods Hole is a major ferry terminal for Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, but these ferries do not directly serve Stoney Beach.
Yes, Stoney Beach is within walking distance from the heart of Woods Hole, making it accessible for those exploring the village on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Stoney Beach Woods Hole typically does not have an entrance fee for general access, though parking may have associated costs during peak season.
Beaches are generally accessible from dawn to dusk. There are no strict 'opening' or 'closing' times for the beach itself, but lifeguard hours may vary.
No, tickets are not required for Stoney Beach. It's a public beach, and entry is free.
While the beach is generally open, it's advisable to check local advisories for any temporary closures or restrictions, especially during severe weather.
Yes, Stoney Beach is accessible year-round, though amenities like lifeguards and portable toilets are seasonal.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Stoney Beach offers a lifeguard on duty during the season, an outdoor shower, and a portable toilet.
Yes, the water is often described as warm and clear, ideal for swimming, especially for families due to the gentle waves and sandbars.
While mostly sandy, you might find some small pebbles and occasional seaweed, but it's a pleasant beach for a stroll.
Visitors enjoy sunbathing, picnicking, and simply relaxing by the water. The nearby Shining Sea Bikeway is also a popular activity.
It can get crowded during peak summer weekends, but weekdays and early mornings offer a more peaceful experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly on Stoney Beach. You'll need to head into Woods Hole village or Falmouth for food options. +1
Woods Hole has several charming eateries, and Falmouth offers a wider variety, including pizza places like Paul's Pizza.
Yes, picnicking is a great option. Just be sure to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.
Grumpy's Pub in Falmouth is a popular local spot mentioned by visitors.
Woods Hole offers a range of casual dining, from seafood shacks to cafes, perfect for a post-beach meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The sunsets are spectacular, and the gentle coastline offers beautiful scenic shots. The nearby Nobska Lighthouse is also a popular subject.
While drone usage might be subject to local regulations, the open water and coastline can offer stunning aerial perspectives. Always check FAA guidelines.
Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, provides the most beautiful light for photography. Sunsets are particularly stunning.
Nobska Lighthouse is a short distance away and a very popular spot for photos, offering a classic Cape Cod view.
Yes, if conditions are right, you can capture the magical glow of bioluminescence, though it requires specific timing and potentially longer exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Bikers
📸 Photographers & Sunset Lovers
If you're lucky enough to visit on a night with bioluminescence, you might capture some truly unique and ethereal shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waters of Stoney Beach
Beyond swimming, the waters around Stoney Beach are part of a vibrant marine ecosystem. While not a primary spot for deep-sea fishing, the bay offers opportunities for casual fishing from the shore or jetties. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular activities, allowing exploration of the coastline and nearby coves.
The clear waters and relatively calm conditions make it an enjoyable experience for water sports enthusiasts. Remember to be mindful of local marine life and practice responsible recreation. The Charm of Woods Hole and Surrounding Areas
This academic atmosphere lends a unique charm to the area, with quaint streets, historic buildings, and a lively harbor. Visitors often enjoy strolling through the village, browsing local shops, and dining at its various eateries. For those looking to extend their exploration, the Shining Sea Bikeway is a must-do. This paved multi-use path stretches for over 10 miles, offering stunning views of the coastline, salt marshes, and cranberry bogs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit