There’s no bad time to take a scenic drive near the coast in Massachusetts, but you’re going to want to take this Cape Ann coastline journey as soon as possible. If you’re looking for the perfect drive to give your mood a boost and to fill your phone with gorgeous photos, this one’s a real beauty! It’s definitely one of the best coastal drives in the state – if not the nation. Here are the details:

Google Maps
This road trip will take you from the town of Salem to Rockport on the tip of Cape Ann.

It’s filled with stunning ocean views, scenic lighthouses, and plenty of charming spots to pull over for a bite to eat or a bit of shopping. The entire journey will bring you 21 miles up Cape Ann for a total of 42 miles round-trip. It’s long enough that you can make a day (or even a weekend) out of it if you choose, but you can also drive the entire length of the journey in just about an hour if you’re just looking for a beautiful way to pass an afternoon.
1. Start off in the charming town of Salem, best known for its infamous witch trials and sailing history.
Salem, MA, USA
dee & tula monstah/Flickr
If you want to satisfy your appetite before hitting the road, Salem is a great spot to roam around and to grab breakfast. You’ll also find plenty of places to indulge in penny candy, ice cream, or a great bowl of chowder.

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2. As you head up the coast to Gloucester, you’ll catch sight of gorgeous sailing ships and sparkling seas.
Blue Collar Lobster Company, 63 Rogers St, Gloucester, MA 01930, USA
Flickr/Robert Laliberte
The town itself has a close connection to the ocean and is a great place to grab a seafood lunch. Try The Blue Collar Lobster, formerly known as The Gloucester House, for yummy lobster prepared in the traditional New England style or nut and honey crusted salmon.
3. Halibut Point State Park is the perfect spot to stretch your legs after sitting in the car.
Halibut Point State Park, Gott Ave, Rockport, MA 01966, USA
Flickr/goodharbor
This stunning stretch of land features rocky cliffs, salty sea air, and plenty of trails and tide pools to explore. On a clear day, you can even see all the way to Mount Agamenticus in Maine.
4. Rockport is the final stop on this scenic tour of Cape Ann.
Cape Ann, Rockport, MA 01966, USA
Motif #1, Bradley Wharf, Rockport, MA 01966, USA
Flickr/Robert Laliberte
This sleepy village is known for its winding streets and the picturesque "Motif #1," a fishing shack that is often cited as the most frequently painted building in America. Grab dinner in town or enjoy a cone of ice cream at the harbor before heading back home.

This scenic drive near the coast in Massachusetts is sure to make you smile. Have you driven this route? Do you have any favorite coastal drives in Massachusetts? Let us know in the comments! If you love exploring, check out this road trip that takes you to all the most fascinating historical sites in Massachusetts.

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More to Explore

Coastal Drives

Beth Price-Williams | September 18, 2020

Where can I go on one tank of gas in Massachusetts?

You’ll find quite a few scenic drives in Massachusetts that you can complete with just one tank of gas. Have you ever driven down some of the most scenic backroads in Massachusetts? If not, you’re in for a real treat.

  • Mount Greylock Scenic Byway is picture-perfect, especially when flanked by the fall foliage. The drive spans just over 16 miles, making it a perfect way to spend an hour or so.
  • Chickatawbut Road, Jacob’s Ladder Scenic Byway, and the Connecticut River Byway all offer sensational views. For some of the prettiest ocean views in Massachusetts, follow the 21 mile backroad along Cape Ann.

Does Massachusetts have any natural wonders?

Some of the most beautiful places to visit in Massachusetts are its natural wonders. Many of the natural wonders, in fact, are hidden in plain sight.

  • Stroll along the Sandwich Boardwalk, the longest boardwalk in the state, for example, to admire the simple beauty of Mill Creek.
  • Boston Harbor Islands is a natural wonder, where you can kayak in the cool water, take a dip in the water, or sit back on the sandy beach and enjoy the views.
  • Deerfield River in Charlemont, Walden Pond in Concord, and Onota Lake in Pittsfield are all natural wonders you’ll want to check out.

 

Which hidden gems in Massachusetts should I visit?

If you’re looking for a fun way to spend a few hours or even a day, head out on a scenic drive in Massachusetts that leads to one of the state’s many hidden gems.

  • Relax under the sun, for example, at Bound Brook Beach in Wellfleet. You can reach the hidden gem on a short hike or via a dirt road in your car.
  • Billingsgate Island in Eastham, Schoolmaster Hill Ruins in Boston, and The Gardens at Elm Bank in Wellesley are all hidden gems in Massachusetts that are worth visit.

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