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  • Boat channel adjacent — stay close to shore.
HarborFree & OpenBest in August

Lighthouse Beach

Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts · Edgartown Harbor

Walk-up sunset swim at the Edgartown Lighthouse

A small beach at the foot of the Edgartown Lighthouse with harbor views and calm water. Walk from downtown, snap a photo of the lighthouse, and wade in. The quintessential Edgartown experience.

Lighthouse Beach is the sandy half-moon at the base of the Edgartown Harbor Light, a five-minute walk from downtown along North Water Street. It's not a destination beach for a full afternoon — too small, too central — but as a sunset stop or a quick post-dinner dip, it's hard to beat. The lighthouse itself, white and squat on a granite jetty, is one of the most photographed structures on the Vineyard, and the views back across the harbor to the cottages of North Water Street are postcard-perfect. The water is calm, the slope gentle, and the swimming protected by the breakwater. Park downtown and walk; there's no beach lot. Climb the lighthouse during open hours for the best aerial view of Edgartown Harbor.

History

The current Edgartown Harbor Light was relocated from Ipswich in 1939; the original was built in 1828.

Photo spot

The lighthouse from the water's edge at golden hour

Arrive
Sunset for the lighthouse
Crowds
Moderate
Dogs
Seasonal
Sunsets
Great spot

Best for

FamiliesScenery

The beach

Lay of the land

Orientation
North-facing
Length
~0.2 mi
Backshore
Dune / flat
Sand
Fine tan sand
Shade
none

Wildlife

Birds you may see: herring gull, great cormorant, common tern

Things to know

  • Jellyfish more likely July–August.

Plan your visit

Parking & fees

Lot size
Small
Enforcement
Street parking only; metered downtown.

Walk from downtown Edgartown

Getting there

Ferry
45 min from Woods Hole (Falmouth) · Steamship Authority
Cell signal
good

Accessibility

Beach wheelchair
Not available
Mobi Mat
No
Path from parking
level

Dogs

No dogs on the beach in summer.

Rules & activities

What’s allowed

UmbrellasTents / canopiesAlcoholGrillsFiresDronesSmoking

Activities

Unofficial SUP/kayak launch

Photo by Rui Bian via Google Places

Today

Water67°F
Sunrise5:09 AM
Sunset8:18 PM

Conditions

WavesCalm water
Water68-74°F (July–Aug)
TidesLow variance
SharksLow risk
Jellyfishlow
Length~0.2 mi

Lighthouse Beach — good to know

How much does parking cost at Lighthouse Beach?

Parking at Lighthouse Beach is free and open to the public, but lots fill early on summer weekends — arrive before about 10am for the best chance of a spot.

Are dogs allowed at Lighthouse Beach?

Dogs are not permitted at Lighthouse Beach during the summer season — No dogs on the beach in summer.

Does Lighthouse Beach have lifeguards?

No — Lighthouse Beach does not have lifeguards on duty, so swim with caution.

Are there restrooms at Lighthouse Beach?

Lighthouse Beach does not have public restrooms on site, so plan accordingly.

What is the water like at Lighthouse Beach?

Lighthouse Beach is a sheltered harbor beach on Edgartown Harbor. Expect calm, gentle water that's good for young kids and easy swimming. Average summer water temperature is around 68-74°F (July–Aug).

What is Lighthouse Beach best for?

Lighthouse Beach is especially good for families and scenery.

When is the best time to visit Lighthouse Beach?

Sunset for the lighthouse.

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