A six-mile barrier beach and dune system on Cape Cod Bay, jointly a guarded swimming beach near the gatehouse and, further out, a permitted off-road-vehicle beach backed by one of the largest dune/salt-marsh systems on the Cape.
What to expect
Parking
Resident sticker Resident sticker or $15-20/day non-resident
Swimming
Allowed water tested by the state
Fishing
Allowed year-round
Managed by
Sandy Neck Park / Town of Barnstable
508-362-8300 · WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Resident sticker
CostResident sticker or $15-20/day non-resident
Sandy Neck main lot (at gatehouse)
Details unconfirmed
Access points along this beach
Gatehouse / main beach
Vehicle and pedestrian entrance; ORV inspection point.
What's here
Facilities
Restrooms
Near gatehouse/main beach
Common questions
Is Sandy Neck Beach Conservation Area in Barnstable open today?
Open, no advisory on record in the latest MA DPH posting (updated 2026-07-16). MA DPH is the authority. Check the status the morning you go.
Can I drive on the beach?
Only in the designated ORV area, and only after passing a gatehouse vehicle inspection and buying a separate annual permit.
Is there parking at Sandy Neck Beach Conservation Area, and what does it cost?
Resident sticker (Resident sticker or $15-20/day non-resident). Sandy Neck main lot (at gatehouse)
Are there restrooms at Sandy Neck Beach Conservation Area?
Public restrooms are listed near the beach. Seasonal hours are common, so they may be closed off-season.
What rules should I know at Sandy Neck Beach Conservation Area?
Four-wheel-drive vehicles must pass a gatehouse inspection (tow rope, shovel, spare tire) before ORV use.
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