A mile-long barrier spit that curls around the mouth of Popponesset Bay, backed by low dunes and rimmed with piping plover habitat. Most of it is only reachable by boat or a long walk, and the public strand is a narrow strip fronting Nantucket Sound.
What to expect
Swimming
Allowed water tested by the state
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round
Managed by
Town of Mashpee (public-access section)
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Show the full year
Average water temperature at Popponesset Spit by month, in °F| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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| Water °F | 39° | 37° | 41° | 48° | 56° | 66° | 73° | 74° | 70° | 62° | 54° | 44° |
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Monthly averages from NOAA, Woods Hole (2022 to 2024). Today's reading is in the conditions above.
Common questions
Is Popponesset Spit in Mashpee open today?
Open, no advisory on record in the latest MA DPH posting (updated 2026-09-13). MA DPH is the authority. Check the status the morning you go.
What's the water temperature at Popponesset Spit?
Water at Popponesset Spit 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 Popponesset Spit?
Walking onto the spit itself is restricted during shorebird nesting season to protect piping plovers, roseate, common, and least terns.
Can you swim at Popponesset Spit?
Yes. Popponesset Spit has no swimming advisory in the latest MA DPH posting (updated 2026-09-13). Check again the morning you go.