This Massachusetts beach ranks among the best in the US, says Travel + Leisure

One Massachusetts beach is making waves, as it was ranked one of the best sandy stretches in the United States.

The magazine Travel + Leisure named the 25 best beaches in the U.S. earlier this month, looking at sandy locales in Alabama, California, Hawaii, New York, Oregon and elsewhere, notable for their “attractions, location, or unique amenities,” the news outlet said. Among the names on the list: Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester, Massachusetts.

Located on the North Shore, Good Harbor is described by the city of Gloucester as one of the community’s “crown jewels” and a “premier spot” for beachgoers visiting from near and far — a beautiful beach with lovely white sand, where one can enjoy long, relaxing walks as well as body surfing or boogie boarding.

“Good Harbor Beach is a family-friendly spot with sugar-soft sand and relatively calm water,” the magazine noted. “At low tide, you can walk across a sand bar and explore rocky Salt Island, while little ones get to play in warm tidal pools.”

Lifeguards are expected to be on duty at the beach from Memorial Day weekend in late May to Labor Day in early September from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Yummy snacks and water toy rentals are sold at the concession stand, the news outlet noted.

In terms of parking, it is recommended that beachgoers arrive early, as spots go quickly. Parking is available during the week at a rate of $30 per vehicle and on the weekends and holidays at $35 per vehicle. Off-site parking and shuttles are also available.

Two other New England beaches also made it onto Travel + Leisure’s top 25 beaches list, including one that is landlocked: the beach at Crystal Lake State Park in Barton, Vermont.

The glacial lake is roughly three miles long and a mile wide, and in some places, it is known to be more than 100 feet deep, according to the state of Vermont’s website. The park’s beach is beautifully situated among rough-hewn mountain sides, has a marked swimming area and a historic, granite bathhouse with restrooms, changing areas and a concession stand, the website noted.

“Lined with about a mile of white sand and backed by scenic mountains, Crystal Lake’s rich history dates back to the 1700s,” the magazine said. “The large, historic granite bathhouse with showers and a concession stand is made from rock mined from the nearby hills. It’s a wonderful place to picnic, swim, and fish. Canoes and an on-site cabin are available for rent.”

New London, Connecticut’s Ocean Beach Park made it onto the list as well. Described by Travel + Leisure as a golden-sand beach with gentle tides, the venue offers stellar views of ferries and schooners that sail past the city’s lighthouse, the magazine noted.

“Ocean Beach Park, located along the boardwalk, features a picnic area, playground, snack bar, mini-golf, an arcade, and more,” the news outlet said.

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