Information
Landmark: Riverside Park (E.H. Young Riverfront Park)City: Kansas City
Country: USA Missouri
Continent: North America
Riverside Park (E.H. Young Riverfront Park), Kansas City, USA Missouri, North America
Good Harbor Beach is a public beach located in Gloucester, Massachusetts. It is situated on the Atlantic Ocean coastline.
Visual Characteristics
The beach features a wide expanse of light-colored, fine-grained sand. The water color varies from clear to a light blue-green depending on sunlight and conditions. Rocky outcrops are present at the northern and southern ends of the beach. Vegetation, primarily dune grass, is established behind the primary sand area.
Location & Access Logistics
Good Harbor Beach is located approximately 4.8 kilometers (3 miles) east of Gloucester's city center. Access is via Atlantic Street, which becomes Thatcher Road. Parking is available in a dedicated lot operated by the City of Gloucester, with fees typically enforced during the summer season. Public transport options include the Gloucester MBTA Commuter Rail line to Gloucester Station, followed by a taxi or ride-share service to the beach, or the local "Cape Ann Transit Authority" (CATA) bus route 2, which stops near the beach entrance during operational months.
Historical & Ecological Origin
Good Harbor Beach is a natural coastal feature formed by marine processes over millennia. Its sandy composition is a result of sediment deposition from ocean currents and wave action. The beach serves as a habitat for various shorebirds and marine invertebrates.
Key Highlights & Activities
Swimming is permitted in designated areas. Sunbathing on the sand is a primary activity. Kite flying is common due to open space and wind conditions. Beachcombing for shells and sea glass is possible. During low tide, tide pools may be accessible for exploration.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms and changing facilities are available on-site, typically open seasonally. Limited shade structures are present. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food vendors are often present during peak season, with additional dining options located a short drive away in Gloucester.
Best Time to Visit
For photography, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal conditions. The best months for weather are typically June through September, with July and August being the warmest. High tide can reduce the available sand area, while low tide exposes more of the beach and potential tide pools.
Facts & Legends
A local anecdote suggests that the beach's name originates from a time when ships would seek shelter in the adjacent cove during storms, finding it a "good harbor."
Nearby Landmarks
- 1.2km Southwest: Gloucester House Restaurant
- 1.5km West: Stage Fort Park
- 2.1km Northwest: Cape Ann Museum
- 3.5km West: Fisherman's Memorial
- 4.0km West: Rocky Neck State Park