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Sound SideSticker / Day FeeHidden gemBest in September

Ropes Beach

Cotuit, Barnstable, Massachusetts · Cotuit Bay

4.6(14 reviews)

Cotuit's quiet sliver of bay-side sand and kayak launch

A tiny, quiet beach on Old Shore Road in Cotuit. No facilities, no fanfare — just a sliver of sand on Cotuit Bay for residents who want a peaceful escape.

Ropes Beach is on Old Shore Road in Cotuit. Current parking eligibility, facilities and water access need confirmation before a visit.

Photo spot

Kayaks lined up at the launch with Sampson's Island in the distance

Arrive

Anytime — almost always empty

Crowds

Low

Dogs

Seasonal

Sunsets

Great spot

Best for

SeclusionWalking

The beach

Lay of the land

Orientation: West-facing (sunset)
Length: ~0.1 mi
Backshore: Dune / flat
Sand: Fine sand with cobble at high-tide line
Shade: none

Wildlife

Birds you may see: common tern, osprey, great blue heron

Eelgrass beds

Things to know

Piping plover closures typically run April–June — dunes may be roped off in those months.
Jellyfish more likely in August.

Plan your visit

Parking & fees

$45

resident sticker / season

Lot size: Small
Enforcement: 9am–3:45pm year-round

Resident sticker only, very limited (~12 spaces)

Getting there

From Sagamore Bridge: 30 min
Cell signal: good

Accessibility

Beach wheelchair: Not available
Mobi Mat: No
Path from parking: short walk

Dogs

No dogs May 15 – Sept 15. Allowed on leash Sept 16 – May 14.

Pairs well with

Loop Beach

Rules & activities

What’s allowed

UmbrellasTents / canopies · small onlyAlcoholGrillsFiresDronesSmoking

Activities

Designated SUP/kayak launch

Photo by Nicholas Bono, SRA, RA via Google Places

Today

Water56°F

Next low2:49 PM(-0.3 ft)

Sunrise7:06 AM

Sunset5:44 PM

Conditions

WavesCalm water

Water68–72°F (July–Aug)

TidesModerate

SharksLow risk

Jellyfishlow

Length~0.1 mi

Open in Google Maps (508) 790-6345 Official town page

Ratings updated 24 days ago

Ropes Beach — good to know

How much does parking cost at Ropes Beach?

Ropes Beach requires a town parking sticker or a paid day pass in summer. Lots fill early on weekends, so arrive before about 10am.

Are dogs allowed at Ropes Beach?

Dogs are not permitted at Ropes Beach during the summer season — No dogs May 15 – Sept 15. Allowed on leash Sept 16 – May 14.

Does Ropes Beach have lifeguards?

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

Are there restrooms at Ropes Beach?

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

What is the water like at Ropes Beach?

Ropes Beach is a Nantucket Sound beach on Cotuit Bay. Expect calm, gentle water that's good for young kids and easy swimming. Average summer water temperature is around 68–72°F (July–Aug).

What is Ropes Beach best for?

Ropes Beach is especially good for seclusion and walking.

When is the best time to visit Ropes Beach?

Anytime — almost always empty.