The swimming beach within the Trustees' Wasque Reservation at Chappaquiddick's southeastern point, known for strong, shifting currents and popular surf-fishing at the adjacent point.
What to expect
Parking
Paid lot Nonmembers $25, Members $15, Contributing+ free (Memorial Day-Indigenous Peoples Day); free with OSV permit
Swimming
Water not monitored off-season
Accessibility
Accessible restrooms; limited handicapped transportation available on ranger request
Dogs
Not allowed on the beach April 1 - September 30; leashed year-round on upland trails
Fishing
Allowed year-round; known surfcasting spot for striped bass and bluefish at Wasque Point
Managed by
The Trustees of Reservations
617-542-7696 · WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Paid lot
CostNonmembers $25, Members $15, Contributing+ free (Memorial Day-Indigenous Peoples Day); free with OSV permitStickerTrustees OSV permit or day admission
Wasque main lot
Wasque main lot
CostNonmembers $25, Members $15, Contributing+ free (Memorial Day-Indigenous Peoples Day); free with OSV permitSpaces90
Library card holders get free day passes at participating MV libraries
Access points along this beach
Worth knowing
- Protected piping plover and tern nesting areas exist near Wasque; visitors are asked not to walk on dunes.
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Show the full year
Average water temperature at Wasque Swim Beach by month, in °F| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|
| Water °F | 39° | 37° | 41° | 48° | 56° | 66° | 73° | 74° | 70° | 62° | 54° | 44° |
|---|
Monthly averages from NOAA, Woods Hole (2022 to 2024). Today's reading is in the conditions above.
Common questions
Is Wasque Swim Beach in Edgartown open today?
Wasque Swim Beach is not monitored right now. MA DPH samples beach water Memorial Day to Labor Day and posts no advisories or all-clears off-season, so there is no swim status to report. Swimming off-season is at your own risk.
Is Wasque good for young kids?
Not recommended without close supervision; the Trustees warn of strong, changing currents and hazardous swimming conditions, and the beach is unguarded.
Are dogs allowed at Wasque in summer?
No, dogs are banned on the beach April 1 through September 30; leashed dogs are fine on the upland trails year-round.
Is there parking at Wasque Swim Beach, and what does it cost?
Paid lot (Nonmembers $25, Members $15, Contributing+ free (Memorial Day-Indigenous Peoples Day); free with OSV permit). Wasque main lot
Are there restrooms at Wasque Swim Beach?
Public restrooms are listed near the beach. Seasonal hours are common, so they may be closed off-season.
What's the water temperature at Wasque Swim Beach?
Water at Wasque Swim Beach averages about 37°F in February and 74°F in August, based on NOAA readings at Woods Hole from 2022 to 2024. For today's temperature, see the conditions above.
What rules should I know at Wasque Swim Beach?
Swimming can be hazardous due to strong and changing currents. Dangerous sand cliffs on eroding bluffs; stay 10+ feet away. Avoid swimming where seals are present due to potential shark attraction. Unguarded beach. Hunting not permitted.
Can you swim at Wasque Swim Beach?
There is no MA DPH swim status for Wasque Swim Beach off-season: the state samples beach water Memorial Day to Labor Day. Swimming off-season is at your own risk; check conditions posted at the beach.
Is there an entry fee at Wasque Swim Beach?
No, entry is free.