
Herring Cove Beach Provincetown
Tranquil bayside beach known for calm waters, stunning sunsets, and a welcoming atmosphere. Part of Cape Cod National Seashore.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best sunset views

Herring Cove Beach Provincetown
Best Time
Best sunset views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tranquil bayside beach known for calm waters, stunning sunsets, and a welcoming atmosphere. Part of Cape Cod National Seashore.
"This beach is beautiful! Location is close to the main part of Provencetown. It’s clean & the shore has a nice mix of sand and quartz."

🌅 Catch the Sunset
Arrive 30 mins before sunset for prime viewing. Parking is often free in the evening.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The shore can be rocky; water shoes make getting into the calm water easier.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spectacular Sunset Views
Herring Cove Beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the calm bay waters, painting the sky with vibrant colors. A truly magical experience.

Calm Waters for Swimming
Herring Cove Beach
Enjoy peaceful swimming in the gentle, shallow waters, perfect for families and those seeking a relaxing dip.

Dog-Friendly Shores
Herring Cove Beach (designated areas)
Leashed dogs are welcome during summer, allowing your furry friends to enjoy the beach alongside you.

Historic Charm
Herring Cove Beach
Once known as 'New Beach,' this historic spot offers a glimpse into Provincetown's past.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunsets
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Best Times
Insider Tips
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🌅 Catch the Sunset
Arrive 30 mins before sunset for prime viewing. Parking is often free in the evening.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The shore can be rocky; water shoes make getting into the calm water easier.
🐶 Dogs Welcome (Leashed)
Leashed dogs are allowed during summer, making it a great spot for pet owners.
🚗 Parking Availability
Daytime parking is paid, but evening parking is often free and plentiful.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Arrive 30 mins before sunset for prime viewing. Parking is often free in the evening.
👟 Water Shoes Recommended
The shore can be rocky; water shoes make getting into the calm water easier.
🐶 Dogs Welcome (Leashed)
Leashed dogs are allowed during summer, making it a great spot for pet owners.
🚗 Parking Availability
Daytime parking is paid, but evening parking is often free and plentiful.
🥪 Snack Bar Delights
The snack bar offers more than just snacks, including lobster rolls and beer. Check hours!
🧼 Clean Facilities
Restrooms and changing rooms are well-maintained and clean.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Herring Cove Beach is consistently praised for its beautiful scenery, calm waters ideal for swimming, and spectacular sunset views. Visitors appreciate the clean facilities, including well-maintained restrooms, and the convenience of a snack bar offering more than just typical beach fare. The dog-friendly policy during summer is a significant plus for many. Some note the shore can be rocky, recommending water shoes.
"We usually come to this beach for swimming and sun, but this year we came early evening for the best sunset views in Provincetown! Plenty of parking at night, and often it’s free that time of day. Get there about 1/2 hour before sunset; you won’t be disappointed!"
Michael Breda
"This beach is beautiful! Location is close to the main part of Provencetown. It’s clean & the shore has a nice mix of sand and quartz. We’ve been here 3x now & it doesn’t disappoint. Brought the kids & they loved it.
The bathrooms were clean and stocked each time we visited. It’s a must stop when we’re in town."
Christina Broecker
"Dogs are allowed on leash during summer (toward the left side of the beach) - so nice to be able to chill at the beach with your fur babies and see other doggies doing the same. There are a dumpster and restrooms at the entrance. The high tide during the day was around 3:30pm when we were there."
Stella Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Herring Cove Beach is located at the western end of Provincetown, about a 10-minute drive from the main Commercial Street. You can drive your own vehicle, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing services. Some visitors also enjoy biking to the beach, as there are bike paths available.
While there isn't direct public bus service to Herring Cove Beach, the town of Provincetown is quite walkable and bikeable. Many visitors opt to drive or bike to the beach.
Yes, you can drive onto the beach at Herring Cove, but it requires airing down your tires and is generally done with 4x4 vehicles. It's a popular activity for some visitors.
There is a paid day parking lot at Herring Cove Beach. However, many visitors report that parking is often free in the evenings, especially closer to sunset.
The beach has accessible parking and pathways leading to the sand, making it relatively accessible. Restrooms are also available near the parking area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Herring Cove Beach is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. While there isn't a specific entrance fee for the beach itself, there is a fee for day parking in the lot. This fee typically covers access to all Cape Cod National Seashore beaches for a set period.
Herring Cove Beach is generally open from sunrise to sunset. The concession stand and restrooms have specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Cape Cod National Seashore website for the most up-to-date information.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for Herring Cove Beach. Entry is typically on a first-come, first-served basis for parking.
Generally, you can bring standard beach items like towels, chairs, and umbrellas. Alcohol is permitted, but glass containers are discouraged. Dogs are allowed on leash during the summer season.
To avoid crowds, visiting during the early evening for sunset is highly recommended, as parking is often free and the atmosphere is more relaxed. Weekday mornings outside of peak summer season can also be less crowded.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Herring Cove Beach is ideal for swimming in its calm waters, sunbathing, beachcombing, and enjoying spectacular sunsets. It's also a great spot for photography and relaxing walks along the shore.
Yes, lifeguards are typically on duty during the peak summer season to ensure visitor safety.
The restrooms and changing rooms at Herring Cove Beach are reported to be very well-maintained and clean, with dumpsters also available.
Bonfires are generally not permitted on Herring Cove Beach or other beaches within the Cape Cod National Seashore. It's always best to check local regulations.
Absolutely! The calm, shallow waters make it a safe and enjoyable place for children to swim and play. Families often rave about the beach's suitability for kids.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a concession stand at Herring Cove Beach that offers more than just typical snacks. You can find items like lobster rolls and other common snack bar options, and even an ice-cold beer. It's advisable to check their operating hours, especially if visiting early or late in the season.
You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to Herring Cove Beach. However, it's recommended to avoid glass containers for safety reasons.
While there aren't designated picnic areas with tables, the beach itself provides ample space to spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic. The concession stand also offers a place to sit and eat.
The snack bar at Herring Cove Beach offers a selection that includes lobster rolls, along with other standard beach fare. They also serve cold beverages, including beer.
Herring Cove Beach is located a short drive from the main part of Provincetown, where you'll find a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and bars along Commercial Street.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography at Herring Cove Beach. The sunsets, in particular, are legendary.
Herring Cove Beach is excellent for landscape photography, capturing seascapes, sunsets, and coastal scenes. It's also a great spot for candid shots of people enjoying the beach and, occasionally, wildlife like foxes.
The entire stretch of the beach offers beautiful vistas. The area near the parking lot provides easy access, while walking further along the shore can reveal unique perspectives of the dunes and ocean.
Drone usage is regulated within National Seashores. It's crucial to check the current FAA and National Park Service regulations regarding drone operation before flying at Herring Cove Beach.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and sky. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for those sunset shots and protection for your gear against sand and sea spray.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Families can enjoy a full day here, with a concession stand offering snacks and even lobster rolls for a treat. The ability to bring leashed dogs during the summer also means the whole family, including furry members, can enjoy the outing. The beautiful sunsets provide a magical end to a fun-filled day.
🚗 Day-Trippers & Road Trippers
Parking is available, though it's paid during the day. However, many day-trippers find that arriving in the late afternoon or early evening allows them to enjoy the beach and witness the stunning sunset, often with free parking. The beach's calm waters are ideal for a refreshing swim before heading back on the road.
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Herring Cove Beach: A Natural Gem
The beach's historical significance is also noteworthy. It was once known as 'New Beach' until 1962 when the National Park Service took over and renamed it, referencing the Massachusetts State Highway that improved access. Today, it stands as a serene escape, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling energy of Provincetown's Commercial Street. Whether you're seeking a relaxing swim, a picturesque walk, or simply a place to unwind, Herring Cove Beach provides a memorable coastal experience.
Key Features:
* Calm Waters: Ideal for swimming and wading.
* Mixed Sand and Quartz Shoreline: A unique beach texture.
* Well-Maintained Facilities: Clean restrooms and changing areas.
* Historical Name: Formerly 'New Beach.'
* Part of Cape Cod National Seashore: Protected natural environment.
The Magic of Provincetown Sunsets at Herring Cove
To make the most of this experience, it's recommended to arrive about 30 minutes before the official sunset time. This gives you ample opportunity to find a good spot, settle in, and watch the sky transform. Parking, which is paid during the day, is often free in the evenings, making it an accessible and popular choice for sunset seekers. The atmosphere during sunset is often described as peaceful and breathtaking, a perfect way to end a day exploring Provincetown.
Sunset Viewing Tips:
* Timing: Arrive 30 minutes prior to sunset.
* Parking: Often free in the evenings.
* Experience: Peaceful and visually stunning.
* Photography: Ideal lighting conditions for memorable shots.
Pet-Friendly Paradise: Dogs at Herring Cove Beach
Visitors often share positive experiences of seeing other dogs enjoying the sand and surf, contributing to a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Remember to always keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other beachgoers. Proper waste disposal is also essential to keep the beach clean for everyone. The presence of restrooms and dumpsters nearby adds to the convenience for dog owners.
Dog-Friendly Features:
* Leashed Dogs Allowed: During the summer season.
* Social Atmosphere: Many other dogs frequent the beach.
* Convenient Amenities: Restrooms and dumpsters available.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit