Thumpertown Beach

Named after a local character, this bay beach offers the same spectacular sunset views as First Encounter with smaller crowds. Calm water and tidal flats make it another great family option.

Thumpertown sits just south of Campground Beach on the Eastham bay shore — close enough to First Encounter to share the sunset, far enough to keep most of the crowd at bay. The name allegedly comes from a 19th-century resident known for thumping his foot during meetings; the story is local lore more than verified history. The beach itself is classic Eastham bay: a gentle slope into warm shallow water at high tide, a quarter-mile of firm flats at low, and a wide-open western view across Cape Cod Bay. The parking lot is small and Eastham stickers (or daily fee) are enforced. There's a portable restroom in season and not much else. Renters in the surrounding cottages call this beach their own; it's a strong choice for families who'd rather watch sunset without competing for tailgate space.