An unmarked, locals-known cove where Bay Road meets Route 28 on Pleasant Bay, prized for warm, shallow, current-free water and as Chatham's only summer dog beach. There is a roadside pull-off and nothing else, so bring everything you need.
What to expect
Parking
Free lot Free, no sticker required
Swimming
Allowed water tested by the state
Lifeguard
No lifeguards on duty.
Dogs
The only beach in Chatham that allows dogs during the May 1-Sep 15 restricted season, limited to before 9am and after 6pm; no sticker required.
Kayak/Paddleboard
Allowed year-round, calm protected water
Kayak/Paddleboard
Allowed year-round, calm protected water; popular with windsurfers too
Managed by
Chatham Recreation & Beaches Division
508-945-5175 · WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Free lot
CostFree, no sticker required
Roadside area near Bay Rd / Rte 28 (unmarked)
Details unconfirmed
Access points along this beach
Roadside pull-off near Bay Road / Route 28
unmarked, about 1,000 ft south of the intersection
Roadside area near Bay Rd / Rte 28
Unmarked, free parking
Common questions
Is Jacknife Harbor in Chatham 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 bring my dog here in summer?
Yes - Jacknife Harbor is the only Chatham beach that allows dogs during the May 1-Sep 15 restricted season, but only before 9am and after 6pm; no parking sticker needed.
Are there restrooms here?
No, the cove is a rustic, unmarked pull-off with no restrooms or picnic tables of any kind.
Can I bring my dog here in summer?
Yes, this is the only Chatham beach that allows dogs during the May 1-Sep 15 restricted season, but only before 9am and after 6pm; no parking sticker needed.
Is there parking at Jacknife Harbor, and what does it cost?
Free lot (Free, no sticker required). Roadside area near Bay Rd / Rte 28 (unmarked)
What rules should I know at Jacknife Harbor?
No lifeguard; exposed sandbars and shallow pools at low tide.
Been here? Help keep it current.
Prices, hours, and facilities change. A quick note keeps the next visitor from guessing.