West Beach (Naushon)
Enjoy unrivaled seclusion on sandy shores along a wildlife-rich salt marsh at West Beach, on the western end of Naushon Island. West Beach is one of three beaches on this private island where public visitors are welcome, courtesy of the Naushon Island Trust. To maintain the natural beauty of this special island, please follow all posted rules and do not explore beyond the beach.
Features
Naushon’s West Beach is one of three beaches on this private island where visitors are welcome. If you visit, please follow all posted rules and do not walk inland from the beach.
Take a day trip out to Naushon’s West Beach, and you’ll be rewarded with a serene beach experience. This protected cove, located just beyond Robinsons Hole, can only be accessed by boat. Anchor just offshore and swim across crystal-clear waters to the beach, or paddle your kayak right up to the shore! The shallow, sandy waters here are perfect for kids to splash around and swim in. Explore the tidal river that cuts through the beach’s north side to catch small fish and crabs from the adjacent salt marsh.
When you visit West Beach, please respect the island’s residents by following all posted rules. Do not trespass beyond the beach, and keep dogs under your control. Keep the beach clean by carrying out any trash. No fires or overnight camping allowed. West Beach is one of three Naushon beaches (along with Kettle Cove Beach to the northeast and Tarpaulin Cove Beach on Vineyard Sound) where members of the public are welcome.
Habitats & Wildlife
West Beach sits beside a large salt marsh that provides a haven for wildlife. Young fish and shellfish grow up in the safety of the marsh, and flow out to Buzzards Bay along the stream that runs from the marsh across the sandy shore.
Gulls, cormorants, terns, ospreys, and plovers also call these shores home. Some of these birds nest on the beach and dunes. Please watch your step and keep clear of any nests, eggs, and chicks during the spring and summer breeding season.
Grass-covered sand dunes line the back edge of West Beach, creating a natural barrier between the Bay and the private oak forests beyond. Sand dunes are very fragile to disturbance, so please do not climb on them.