Horseneck Beach State Reservation
A stunning coastal gem with vast dunes, ideal for wind sports, birdwatching, and serene beach walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy peace
Horseneck Beach State Reservation
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning coastal gem with vast dunes, ideal for wind sports, birdwatching, and serene beach walks.
"Love it here!! First time camping at Horseneck Beach campground and it was nothing short of being amazing. "
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider visiting on a weekday.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for exploring the dunes, trails, and walking the long stretch of beach.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive Sandy Shores
Main Beach Area
Miles of soft sand and rolling dunes perfect for sunbathing, long walks, and building sandcastles.
Gooseberry Island Trails
Gooseberry Island
Explore scenic walking trails with diverse coastal views and bird-watching opportunities.
Windsurfing & Kiteboarding Haven
Oceanfront
Experience the thrill of watersports on this beach, famous for its consistent winds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider visiting on a weekday.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for exploring the dunes, trails, and walking the long stretch of beach.
🌊 Cold Water Alert
The Atlantic water is bracingly cold, even in summer. Pack accordingly if you plan to swim.
🦅 Birdwatching Paradise
The estuary is a haven for birdlife. Bring binoculars for an enhanced viewing experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can fill up fast, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider visiting on a weekday.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for exploring the dunes, trails, and walking the long stretch of beach.
🌊 Cold Water Alert
The Atlantic water is bracingly cold, even in summer. Pack accordingly if you plan to swim.
🦅 Birdwatching Paradise
The estuary is a haven for birdlife. Bring binoculars for an enhanced viewing experience.
☀️ Dune Protection
Respect the dunes; they are a vital ecosystem. Stay on marked paths to protect nesting areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Horseneck Beach for its beautiful, expansive sandy shores, dunes, and the unique natural environment. The campground is praised for its beachside locations and friendly staff. While the cold water and occasional crowds are noted, the overall experience is highly positive, with many planning return visits. +1
"Love it here!! First time camping at Horseneck Beach campground and it was nothing short of being amazing. The place is clean, though sites are close by, it is not intrusive. Electric hook-up and potable water/dump station available. The ocean right there, Gooseberry Island a short walk away, what more can you ask for!! The staff at the park/campground are amazing, friendly and accommodating. Will make this a regular stop on our travels. @kaleb-and-lucas-adventures"
Kaleb Michael Bakker
"My wife and I spent 5 days camping at the Horseneck Beach campgrounds. Our site was right along on the beach in a non-electrical site. The weather was very nice in mid September. We walked along part of the beach, down the paved path to the much bigger beach area and walked the longer trail on Gooseberry Island. The walk to the beach area was and the trail around the island were both about 3 miles each."
Jim Colombo
"Having been going here all my life. Great sands, dunes, and a place where you can find that peaceful experience you always want at the beach. Down the street there is also gooseberry island. It's very quiet and has minimal parking. One on side you find calm waters, the other offers waves and choppy waters. Only downside are the rocks!"
Michael Cirillo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Horseneck Beach State Reservation is located in Westport, Massachusetts. It's accessible by car via Route 88. Parking is available on-site, but can fill up quickly during peak season.
Public transportation options to Horseneck Beach are limited. It's best to drive or arrange for a ride.
From I-195, take Exit 10 for MA-88 South towards Westport. Continue on MA-88 South, which will lead you directly to Horseneck Beach State Reservation.
Parking is available but can be challenging on busy summer weekends. Arriving early in the morning or on a weekday is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Horseneck Beach is near Fall River and New Bedford, offering additional dining and cultural attractions. Gooseberry Island is also a popular nearby spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a parking fee for Horseneck Beach State Reservation, typically charged per vehicle. Fees vary by season and residency.
The reservation is generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific hours for facilities like restrooms may vary. It's always a good idea to check the official DCR website for the most current information.
Advance parking reservations are typically not available. It's a first-come, first-served system, so early arrival is key.
Parking fees may differ for Massachusetts residents compared to out-of-state visitors. Check the DCR website for specific pricing details.
The fee typically covers access to the beach, parking, and use of public facilities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, birdwatching, and exploring the dunes and trails on Gooseberry Island.
The water can be cold, and there are often waves, making it more suitable for experienced swimmers or those who enjoy cooler temperatures.
Dogs are generally allowed on Horseneck Beach, but there are specific regulations regarding leashes and times of year. Always check the latest DCR rules.
Facilities typically include restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic areas. Some areas may have seasonal availability.
Yes, Horseneck Beach State Campground offers camping sites, some with beach access. Reservations are highly recommended.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are typically no on-site food vendors or restaurants directly within the reservation. It's advisable to pack your own food and drinks or dine in nearby Westport.
Several casual eateries and seafood restaurants are located a short drive away in Westport and along Route 88.
Yes, picnic areas are available, and bringing your own food is a popular option for visitors. Remember to pack out all trash.
You'll find classic New England seafood, casual American fare, and local diners in the towns near Horseneck Beach.
Yes, there are grocery stores in Westport and surrounding towns where you can purchase picnic supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
The dunes, the coastline, Gooseberry Island, and the beach at sunrise or sunset offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides beautiful light. Overcast days can also create dramatic moods.
Generally, photography is allowed, but be mindful of private property and individuals. Respect any posted signage.
Capture sweeping landscapes, wave action, wildlife (especially birds), and the unique dune formations.
Absolutely! The off-season offers dramatic surf, fewer crowds, and a wilder, more rugged beauty perfect for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as on-site food options are limited. The campground offers a unique opportunity for families to camp close to the beach, making for a memorable trip. Remember to bring beach toys and sun protection for a comfortable family outing.
🏄♀️ Watersports Enthusiasts
Be prepared for the cold Atlantic water and always prioritize safety. Check wind conditions before you go and be aware of other beachgoers. The vibrant scene of kites and sails is a testament to the beach's popularity among the watersports community.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Birdwatchers
Don't miss the trails on Gooseberry Island, which offer a different perspective of the coastal landscape and more opportunities for wildlife spotting. Remember to bring binoculars and a field guide to enhance your experience. Respecting the natural environment by staying on trails is key.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Dunes and Estuary
The estuary area is a prime spot for birdwatching, attracting a variety of resident and migratory species. Bird enthusiasts can often spot shorebirds, waterfowl, and other coastal birds, especially during migration seasons. The combination of beach, dunes, and estuary makes Horseneck a valuable natural resource for both recreation and conservation.
Watersports and Coastal Breezes
Even if you're not participating, watching the colorful sails and kites dance across the horizon is a spectacle in itself. The beach's reputation for its windy conditions is well-earned, offering a dynamic and exciting coastal experience. It's a place where the power of nature is on full display.
Camping at Horseneck Beach
Campers can enjoy all the activities the reservation has to offer, from beach walks to exploring Gooseberry Island. The campground is known for being clean and well-maintained, though sites can be close together. It's a popular spot, so booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer months.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit