Gloucester Beaches

Gloucester is basically beach city, with seven oceanside areas that attract locals and almost too many tourists each summer. All are within a few minutes from the city center, which lets you have the best of both worlds: a day at the beach, followed by a night out on the town.

The best beaches in Gloucester offer a variety of experiences, from small, secluded charmers with silky soft sand to large, pebbly wonders with impressive views and kaleidoscopic sunsets. Gloucester's varied beaches are simple to enjoy in any season because they are conveniently located on the enthrallingly beautiful Cape Ann. They're also a major draw for Bostonians on weekends who want to enjoy the sunshine and clean sea air in a charming setting. So, expect to share the sand, especially if you're visiting on a summer weekend.

If you're looking to swim, it's best to visit during summer, or at least between Memorial and Labor Days. That's when the lifeguards come on duty, and the water temperatures become a bit less frigid. It's also when the ice-cream trucks reopen, and who says "no" to ice cream at the shore? Stage Fort Park and Good Harbor beaches flank the city to the north and south, and offer a day-long adventure with picnic and grilling areas.

• Getting there: Take the Newburyport/Rockport commuter rail from North Station to Gloucester.
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• Address: Gloucester, MA 01930