212 Nantasket Ave, Hull, MA 02045, USA
https://www.mass.gov/locations/nantasket-beach-reservation
Owned By: Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR)
This pleasant sandy beach is open to the public. It can get quite busy in the summertime! It features a long stretch of shoreline, a 1-mile paved/concrete walking path, plus such amenities as shade structures, the Mary Jeanette Murray Bath House, the David Cook Comfort Station, the Jack Phillips Park playground, and the Bernie King Pavilion.
For up-to-date information about this large and wonderful property, including summer concerts and events, follow the Friends of Nantasket Beach.
Features
Hull was settled by Europeans in 1624, and referred to as the Nantasket Peninsula. It was incorporated as a town in 1644. In 1818, after steamboats began transporting passengers from Rowe’s Wharf in Boston to Nantasket Beach, Hull became a popular tourist destination. William Worrick’s Sportsman Hotel was established in 1825, with several others to follow. Railroads and trolleys soon increased the area’s accessibility.
In 1905, Paragon Park, a 10-acre amusement park, was established across the street from the beach. A carousel was added in 1928. While the park was closed permanently in 1984, the carousel was maintained as a historic site. It is open seasonally.
This land is within the region of the Massachuseuk (or Massachusett) Native American tribe. According to the United States Geologic Survey, the word “Nantasket” can be translated as “place of low ebb tide.”
Trail Description
Plenty of beach to walk upon. Some sections are rocky. A 1-mile paved/concrete walking path extends along the beach.
Habitats and Wildlife
Nantasket Beach is located directly on the Atlantic Ocean, overlooking Massachusetts Bay.
Historic Site: No
Park: No
Beach: Yes
Boat Launch: No
Lifeguards: Lifeguards in season.
Size: 26.5 acres, 1.3 miles of shoreline
Hours: Dawn to Dusk
Parking: Large parking lots on Nantasket Ave. and Hull Shore Drive. Daily parking fees mid-May to Labor Day.
Cost: Free (parking may require a fee)
Trail Difficulty: Easy
Facilities:
Pavilion, shade structures, playground, volleyball court, bathhouses, restrooms, benches, trash receptacles, bicycle racks, drinking fountains. Beach wheelchairs available. 1-mile paved/concrete walking path.
Dogs: No dogs allowed from April to mid-September. Dogs must remain on leash. Scoop the poop!
Boat Ramp: No
ADA Access: Yes
Scenic Views: Yes
Waterbody/Watershed: Massachusetts Bay / Atlantic Ocean