Location
United States
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
July to September
About Miacomet Beach
Miacomet Beach is a long, open stretch of the south shore of Nantucket, at the end of Miacomet Road south-west of Nantucket town, next to Miacomet Pond, a freshwater pond with its own small beach and birding area. The ocean beach is wide, firm sand with shells, backed by low dunes and heathland, and faces the open Atlantic, so it gets heavy surf, strong currents and steep drop-offs, and is often windy. It is one of the quieter south-shore beaches, used by walkers, surfers, dog owners, birders and couples, with a seasonal lifeguard posted on one section in summer. There is no official nude area; nude-beach listings say clothing-optional use happens only in far, empty stretches away from the access point and lifeguard, and is unofficial. The calm pond next door is the better option for children. Nantucket voters approved a bylaw in 2022 to allow topless sunbathing on beaches, pending state approval.
Getting there
Drive or bike from Nantucket town to the end of Miacomet Road, where a small parking area sits by the pond and dunes; the last stretch is dirt and bumpy, so a hybrid or mountain bike helps. It can also be reached from South Shore Road. Parking is limited and fills on busy days. From the lot a short sandy path leads to the beach. Portable toilets only. No direct shuttle stop.
What visitors say
Visitors describe a quiet, uncrowded beach with big surf, long walks and good birding at the pond, and warn about rip currents, wind and limited services. Nude-beach listings report only occasional, discreet nude use far along the beach; general reviews rarely mention it.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
Nantucket has no designated nude beach; Massachusetts law can treat public nudity as lewdness. A 2022 town meeting vote to allow toplessness on beaches was reported as pending state attorney general approval; full nudity remains unpermitted.
Naturism at Miacomet Beach sits under United States's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: United States public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
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Approx. 41.2431, -70.1286
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in United States
Frequently asked questions
Is Miacomet a nude beach?
Not officially. Some people sunbathe nude discreetly in far, empty stretches, but there is no nude area.
Is it safe for swimming?
The ocean has heavy surf and strong currents; swim near the lifeguard in season, or use the calmer Miacomet Pond.
How do I get there?
Go to the end of Miacomet Road from Nantucket town; the last part is a bumpy dirt road with limited parking.
Are there facilities?
Only portable toilets; no food or rentals.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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