Cape Ann, Massachusetts is one of the most beautiful areas in New England and is often overlooked for more famous destinations like Nantucket, Cape Cod, Kennebunkport, and Camden. But that’s alright by us, we like to keep it flying under the radar as long as possible.
Cape Ann is comprised of 4 towns: Rockport, Gloucester, Essex, and Manchester By The Sea. One of the most interesting places on Cape Ann in Gloucester, Massachusetts.
The home of the Perfect Storm and Gorton’s Fish Sticks. Gloucester has a rich seafaring past and is also home to some of the most scenic beaches in New England. Popular beachcombing locations include Good Harbor, Wingaersheek, Niles, and Plum Cove. But one of our favorite Gloucester beaches in Half Moon Beach.
Half Moon Beach in Gloucester, MA
Half-moon beach is a small, secluded beach located in Gloucester’s Stage Fort Park. It is surrounded by trees and rocks which provide is both shade and privacy. The beach is just a few hundred yards away from the Gloucester Fishermen’s Memorial, but it feels like it is its own tiny little universe.
Half Moon Beach is a fantastic spot to bring a grill, cook out, catch some sun and stay cool by the water.
There are also refreshments on-site at a small family-owned snack shack called the Cupboard. You can get burgers, dogs, and other snacks. But they also carry some fresh local seafood like Haddock and New England’s famous delicacy, fried clams.
Did you know that fried clams were invented just down the road in Essex, Massachusetts at a little place called Woodmen? It’s true! And Woodman’s is actually still there and does an incredible business. We’d definitely recommend popping in if you are making a trip up to Cape Ann.
There is so much to explore on Cape Ann that we recommend staying for a couple of nights and checking out the entire Cape. There are a number of fantastic Gloucester MA Hotels to choose from that are right in the heart of the city.
Downtown Gloucester has a wide variety of shops and galleries to peruse. You will have fun perusing used bookstores. Like Dogtown Books, vintage clothing at Castaways, the stacks of vinyl at Mystery Train Records, and finding unique gifts at Brass Monkey.
If you’re not in the mood for shopping you may want to take in some art. Cape Ann, especially Rockport and Gloucester are known rich art history and active art colonies. In Gloucester, you can visit the Cape Ann Museum and visit some local galleries at the Rocky Neck Art Colony. If you head out that way you should try out the Studio Restaurant. It’s right on the water and it’s a favorite of the locals with delicious sushi, local catches, and a fun-loving, local atmosphere.
So, if you’re thinking about a beach vacation this Summer you should put Cape Ann in the running. From great beaches to fresh seafood, talented artists, and adorable shops it’s worth a visit.
