Highlight (Segment) • Beach
Cycling
5.0
(26)
The Nahant Road Coastal Path and Beach, often known simply as Nahant Beach or Long Beach, is a protected coastal reservation in Nahant, Massachusetts. This scenic stretch serves as a natural causeway, connecting the town of Nahant to the mainland and offering extensive recreational opportunities. Part of the larger Lynn Shore & Nahant Beach Reservation, it features 7,000 feet (2,100 meters) of sandy beach along the Atlantic Ocean, providing a picturesque escape just 14 miles north of Boston.
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April 7, 2021
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 396 m
Uphill 0 m
Downhill 0 m
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Tuesday 17 March
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-2°C
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Max wind speed: 32.0 km/h
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While dogs are generally restricted from the main beach area between April 1 and September 15, there is a dedicated "Doggie Beach" on the opposite side of the causeway that welcomes pets year-round. This allows dog owners to enjoy the coastal environment with their furry companions.
Yes, Nahant Road Coastal Path and Beach is a year-round destination. While summer is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, winter offers a unique, tranquil experience for walking, running, and cycling. The reservation remains open, providing a refreshing coastal escape with fewer crowds and dramatic ocean views.
Nahant Beach is a popular destination, particularly during warmer months and on weekends. Parking can fill up quickly, especially in summer. Arriving before mid-morning is strongly recommended to secure a spot and enjoy a less crowded experience. During off-peak seasons or weekdays, it tends to be much quieter.
Nahant Beach offers several family-friendly amenities. These include a playground, picnic areas, and restrooms. The broad, clean sandy shores and clear, shallow waters are also excellent for children to swim and play safely. Seasonal beach mats and beach wheelchairs are available at the Carbone Lifeguard Station (access point 7) for enhanced accessibility.
Yes, cyclists should be aware that Nahant Road itself can have fast-moving traffic. While some cyclists use the road, there are safer alternatives. Many prefer the dedicated paved path that runs along the beach or cycling through the beach parking lot to avoid the main road. There are also elevated portions next to the road that offer safe riding and photo opportunities.
Nahant Beach offers a wide array of water activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and shell gathering in the clear, shallow waters. Boating (motorized and non-motorized), canoeing, kayaking, surfing, and kite surfing are also popular. A boat ramp provides convenient access to Lynn Harbor.
Yes, the causeway, picnicking areas, and restrooms at Nahant Beach are accessible. Additionally, seasonal beach mats and beach wheelchairs are available at the Carbone Lifeguard Station at access point 7, making it easier for visitors with mobility challenges to enjoy the beach.
The area around Nahant has a rich history, dating back to early colonial settlement. Nahant itself transformed into a popular resort town in the early 19th century, attracting Boston's elite. The causeway, historically known as Nahant Beach Boulevard, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003. The creation of the Lynn Shore & Nahant Beach Reservation in the early 1900s ensured public access to these beautiful coastal features.
While the reservation itself has picnic areas, there are options for food and drinks nearby. Some local businesses, such as a Dunkin' Donuts, are accessible from the path and may offer restrooms and refreshments. For a wider selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants, you would need to venture into the town of Nahant or the neighboring city of Lynn.
Absolutely. The entire path offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. A notable feature is Egg Rock, a 3-acre island located about three miles offshore, which is a protected nesting area for seagulls and was once home to a lighthouse. The unique experience of traversing the narrow sandy isthmus with ocean views on both sides is a highlight in itself.