Half Moon Beach: A Coastal Gem in Gloucester
Explore Half Moon Beach, a serene public beach in Gloucester, MA, offering stunning views, soft sands, and endless outdoor fun for every traveler.
A brief summary to Half Moon Beach
- 24 Hough Ave, Gloucester, Massachusetts, 01930, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Half Moon Beach is a stunning public beach located in Gloucester, Massachusetts, renowned for its serene beauty and family-friendly atmosphere. This gem of the North Shore stretches along the coastline, providing visitors with soft, sandy shores and gentle waves perfect for swimming and relaxing. The beach is ideal for sunbathers and beachgoers who appreciate the calming sounds of the ocean and the breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The picturesque landscape is complemented by nearby walking trails and rocky outcrops that make it a great spot for photography and exploration. As visitors stroll along the shoreline, they can enjoy beachcombing for unique shells and stones, or simply unwind under the sun with a good book. The beach is also well-suited for families, with ample space for children to play and frolic in the water. For those seeking a bit of adventure, water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities in the calm waters of the beach. At Half Moon Beach, the atmosphere is always vibrant, especially during the summer months when locals and tourists gather to enjoy the sun and socialize. Watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean is a magical experience that should not be missed. With its stunning natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and welcoming ambiance, Half Moon Beach is a quintessential seaside destination that captures the essence of coastal New England.
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends during the summer.
- Bring your own snacks and refreshments, as nearby dining options may be limited.
- Consider visiting during sunset for breathtaking views and a more tranquil atmosphere.
- Wear water shoes if you plan to explore the rocky areas near the beach.
- Check local tide schedules to plan your visit for optimal beach conditions.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from downtown Gloucester, head east on Main Street. Continue straight, passing through the intersection with Washington Street. After about a 10-minute walk, you will reach the intersection of Main Street and Hough Avenue. Turn left onto Hough Avenue. Continue walking straight for about 0.5 miles. Half Moon Beach will be on your left at 24 Hough Ave. Look for the entrance marked by signs indicating the beach.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
From downtown Gloucester, you can catch the Cape Ann Transportation Authority (CATA) bus. Board the bus that heads towards 'Rockport' or 'Lanesville.' Inform the driver that you would like to get off at the stop nearest to Hough Avenue. After disembarking, walk approximately 0.2 miles down Hough Avenue towards the ocean. Half Moon Beach will be on your right at 24 Hough Ave.
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Biking
For those who wish to bike to Half Moon Beach, you can rent a bike from one of the local shops in Gloucester. Start from Main Street and head towards the harbor. Follow the bike path along the water, which will lead you to the Gloucester Boulevard. From there, take a right onto Hough Avenue. Continue biking straight for about 1 mile, and Half Moon Beach will be on your left at 24 Hough Ave.
Attractions Nearby to Half Moon Beach
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Gloucester Visitor Center at Stage Fort Park
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Stage Fort Park
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The Gloucester Fishermen's Wives Memorial
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Gloucester Fisherman's Memorial
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Ten Pound Island Lighthouse
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Hermit of Gloucester cabin site
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7 Seas Whale Watch
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Sargent House Museum
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Gloucester HarborWalk
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The Cultural Center at Rocky Neck
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Cape Ann Museum
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Maritime Gloucester
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Ravenswood Park
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Cape Ann Harbor Tours
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Beauport, Sleeper-McCann House
Landmarks nearby to Half Moon Beach
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Tulip Garden & Monuments
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The Inn At Babson Court
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Mile Marker One Restaurant
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Beauport Hotel Gloucester
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Puritan House
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Mystery Train
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Compass Rose Ink: Custom Tattoos
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Short & Main
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Minglewood Harborside
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Minglewood Tavern
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Cape Pond Ice Co Inc
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Castaways Vintage Cafe
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Pilot House
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Cape Ann Cruises
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Gloucester House Pub