Sheltered by dunes, this beach along Nantucket Sound has calm waters for swimming, hard-pack sand, and lots of shells. It’s safe for children, with lifeguards in-season. There is a shallow sandbar, and many people paddleboard here. Dunes and beautiful harbor views of sailboats and ferries. Restrooms, changing room, and faucet for rinsing off the sand are available. There are vending machines in the parking area, but no concessions, so bring your own food and beverages. Accessing the beach requires a laborious walk along a narrow path over a soft-sand dune trail. A metal ramp at the end of the trail provides access down the bank onto the beach during the summertime.
Grilling on Dionis Beach is allowed with a charcoal or propane grill (be sure to properly dispose of ash and do not leave used charcoal on the beach). Small, enclosed cooking fires located away from any flammable material or dune vegetation are allowed without a permit. There are no trash receptacles on the beach so please bring any trash you create with you when you leave.
This beach is three miles from town by bike on the north side of Eel Point Rd; off Madaket Road, look for the white painted boulder on the right marked “Dionis.” There is parking, but it tends to fill quickly in July and August and on holiday weekends. Beachgoers can take NRTA shuttle bus to Eel Point Road stop and walk. Lifeguard (in season). Sections of the beach may be closed during shorebird nesting season.
Sometimes called “Water Tower Beach.” Tide pools, few waves, nice beach for children. No stairs, but must trek up and down dune path to reach the beach. No lifeguard; no facilities. Beach ends at a retaining wall. Good shelling. Parking for about 25 vehicles, partial bike path accessibility (right off of Cliff Road).
Francis Street Beach is located on Nantucket Harbor a few blocks from downtown Nantucket. This small beach has calm harbor water and views across the harbor and shoreline. Known as a great launch point for kayaking. There is no parking at this beach. Takeout food is available at nearby establishments (not at the beach).
Steps Beach is located below “The Cliff” and is accessed by a path between mansions and a tall staircase leading down the bluff to the beach. This beach has soft, white sand, calm water along Nantucket Sound, and is a spot for swimming and relaxing by the shore. At low tide, there are wide sandbars within easy swimming distance. Watch your toes for the occasional grumpy crab.
Brant Point Beach is located near Brant Point Lighthouse at the entrance to Nantucket Harbor. The beach offers views of boats entering and leaving the harbor along with views of the lighthouse and surrounding shoreline. Located close to town, the beach is within walking distance from downtown Nantucket and is one of the more accessible beach areas near the harbor.
1 Review on “Dionis Beach”
Great beach for kids! Very Calm, only downside is the beach is very rocky with shells and sea weed, so put on some swim socks/shoes.