Chapoquoit Beach
Sandy shores and sweeping Buzzards Bay views greet you at Chapoquoit Beach, a favorite coastal spot for Falmouth locals. Although it’s smaller than some other town beaches, Chapoquoit Beach offers a secluded escape from the Cape Cod crowds. And with grassy dunes and a sparkling salt marsh across the road, Chapoquoit Beach provides a natural setting that Falmouth families return to every summer.
Features
Look for beautiful shells and interesting shellfish species in the salt marsh next to Chapoquoit Beach on West Falmouth Harbor.
“Chappy,” as locals call Chapoquoit Beach, is a bit off the beaten path – located on a small peninsula that juts out between Buzzards Bay and sheltered West Falmouth Harbor. It’s a popular summer destination for Falmouth families seeking sand, surf, and sun. On windy days, waves crash along the shore; when the weather is calm, swimmers and paddlers practice their strokes in these clear, deep waters.
One of Chapoquoit Beach’s best features is its stunning view of Buzzards Bay. Looking out on a clear day, you’ll see landmarks like Cleveland Ledge Light, West Island, and the Elizabeth Islands. Come here to watch the sunset, and you won’t be disappointed!
Habitats & Wildlife
To explore Chapoquoit Beach’s natural side, carefully cross the road from the parking area. A salt marsh stretches along the shores of West Falmouth Harbor, creating a protected ecosystem where families and nature lovers can discover all kinds of wildlife. The Salt Pond Areas Bird Sanctuaries owns a large part of this marsh, and has protected this habitat for future generations of wildlife and people.
Surrounded by spiky green cordgrass, the marsh has tidal creeks where periwinkles and hermit crabs live. If you’re quiet and still, fiddler crabs will emerge from the marsh by the hundreds. Beneath West Falmouth Harbor’s shallow waters, look for species like spider crabs and bay scallops, which live in spots where eelgrass grows.
