Search for shellfish hiding in the shallows or find a sunny, sheltered spot to rest in the dunes at beautiful Breakwater Beach.
Although a much-loved spot, the large size of Breakwater Beach ensures there is always plenty of room to escape the crowds. Put your sunglasses on and lie back on the warm sand or play beach games of Frisbee or volleyball. Explore the steep sand dunes behind the beach where you can spot birds and lizards among the thick bushes.
At high tide the beach is a great place to swim, as the shallow water ensures conditions are usually calm and the water is an agreeable temperature through the summer. Explore the coastline on a kayak or paddleboard or take a boat out to deeper water for some fishing. You will need your own watersports equipment as there are no rental shops nearby.
When the ocean begins to recede, notice the dinghies and fishing boats that are left slumped on the shore. The tide here races out, leaving almost 1 mile (2 kilometers) of open space at low water. See crabs and crayfish that wait in pools for the tide to return or continue on to the gently breaking waves. Put on a snorkel and mask to see the fish that inhabit the shallows or paddle your way toward Cobb’s Point to the west.
Treat yourself to ice cream from the truck that regularly drives through the parking lot. Return to the beach for a final swim and watch the setting sun over Cape Cod Bay.
Breakwater Beach is a 2-minute drive north of Brewster along Breakwater Road. Use the ample car parking available at a small charge or ride a bike here and lock it securely. There is no permanent café although toilet facilities are available throughout the vacation season.