Crane Beach

Crane Beach has breathtaking scenery. Towering cliffs with a magnificent hotel perched on top stare down on a large crescent of beach with beach chairs waiting to be occupied. The waves can be pretty large here depending on the time of year, but the offshore reef protects the beach from the worst of it. When the waves are small enough, it's a great area for boogie boarding or surfing.

Access to the beach is confined to two options: either through the exclusive Crane Resort and down 98 steps, which is for guests and visitors planning to spend money on site, or the far end of the beach down a little road and across a rock path. If you have mobility concerns, it is advisable to go through the resort because the path from the road might be dangerous, especially if the surf is rising.

This beach is great for a romantic retreat, which can include a delicious lunch at the hotel followed by a relaxing day on the beach below. Sunbeds can be booked, and towards the back of the beach, there is a small vendor serving food and cold drinks.

Location: Ipswich, Massachusetts, North of Cape Ann