A north-shore beach off Cliff Road, sometimes called Water Tower Beach for the landmark nearby. Shallow water and tide pools make it a good spot for children, though there's a dune path to climb down first and no facilities once you're there.
What to expect
Swimming
Allowed water tested by the state
Managed by
Nantucket Conservation Foundation / Nantucket Land Bank
WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Free lot
Costfree
Washing Pond dirt lot
Details unconfirmed
Washing Pond dirt lot
CostfreeSpaces~25
Partial bike-path access off Cliff Road
Access points along this beach
Dune path from lot
No stairs, a walked-down dune path
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Show the full year
Average water temperature at Washing Pond by month, in °F| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|
| Water °F | 39° | 38° | 42° | 50° | 57° | 67° | 76° | 75° | 69° | 61° | 51° | 42° |
|---|
Monthly averages from NOAA, Nantucket Island (2022 to 2024). Today's reading is in the conditions above.
Common questions
Is Washing Pond in Nantucket 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.
Is it good for young kids?
Yes, shallow water and tide pools make it gentler than the ocean-facing beaches, though you'll need to manage a dune path down with little ones in tow.
Is there parking at Washing Pond, and what does it cost?
Free lot (free). Washing Pond dirt lot
Are there restrooms at Washing Pond?
Public restrooms are listed near the beach. Seasonal hours are common, so they may be closed off-season.
What's the water temperature at Washing Pond?
Water at Washing Pond averages about 38°F in February and 76°F in July, based on NOAA readings at Nantucket Island from 2022 to 2024. For today's temperature, see the conditions above.
What rules should I know at Washing Pond?
No alcohol, glass, or smoking on public beaches, $300 fine for violations.
Can you swim at Washing Pond?
Yes. Washing Pond has no swimming advisory in the latest MA DPH posting (updated 2026-09-13). Check again the morning you go.