Best for Families with Young Children
- Children's Beach - Calm harbor waters, playground, in-town location
- Jetties Beach - Lifeguards, rentals, playground, snack bar
- Dionis Beach - Gentle waves, warm water, less crowded
Best for Surfing & Bodyboarding
- Cisco Beach - Most consistent surf, popular with surfers
- Surfside Beach - Good waves, easier access
- Madaket Beach - Powerful surf, experienced surfers
Best for Sunsets
- Madaket Beach - Legendary sunsets, the island's best
- Dionis Beach - West-facing with beautiful evening views
- Cisco Beach - Great sunset spot close to Cisco Brewers
Best for Peaceful Walks & Solitude
- Sconset Beach - Scenic bluffs, less crowded east end
- Dionis Beach - Quieter alternative to Jetties
- Madaket Beach - Wild and remote feeling
Easiest to Reach Without a Car
- Children's Beach - Walking distance from downtown
- Brant Point - Short walk from town center
- Jetties Beach - Shuttle service and bike path available
- Surfside Beach - Accessible by NRTA shuttle and bike path
