There’s something magnificent about the concept of a landscape that’s more interactive than expected. Typically, we don’t expect the ground we walk on to make noise at us, but there’s a singing beach in Massachusetts where the ground beneath your feet will actually squeak at you. The aptly-named Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea is one of the most fascinating places to spend a pleasant sunny day, and it’s one that belongs on your local bucket list. Check out these singing beach photos:

Manchester-by-the-Sea locals love Singing Beach, their own hometown oddity.
Kristin "Shoe" Shoemaker/Flickr
With bright waters and fascinating hues, this beach is one of the most stunning in Massachusetts... and perhaps New England. Since beach-going became vogue, visitors have been amazed by the beauty of this place.
This half-mile-wide stretch of sandy shore is typically open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and dogs are even allowed on the beach during select seasons.
Glynne Alfred/Google Images
The name of this beach hints at its most unusual feature... its sands sing! Or, rather, the sand squeaks.
Gabriele Manganaro/Google Images
Old Neck Beach, as this site was once known, wasn't nicknamed for its singing sands until around the 19th century. For years, these sands have mystified visitors... and left some unimpressed. It is said that a surprisingly unimpressed philosopher named Henry David Thoreau noted following his visit, that the sand, "...was not at all musical nor was it loud."
The so-called "singing" is a phenomenon created by sand grains of a certain size, shape, and makeup creating friction when it is disturbed. It can actually make a rather loud squeaking sound!
Henrique Pacini/Google Images
Not sure if you've heard "singing" sand before? This phenomenon actually can happen at different beaches around the world, as this short clip from Michigan demonstrates:

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Part of the reason the sand at this beach "sings" is because it is at the perfect moisture level to do so... not too saturated, but not too dry!
Katie/Flickr
Don't let these bright and beautiful pictures fool you... in the colder months, this shoreline looks very different... and winter storms of yore have spent ages tearing out bathhouses and debris.
Once you get past the (somewhat annoying) squeaks of the sand, this beach in Manchester-by-the-sea is a very pretty place to spend a day. There is, however, a parking and walk-on fee.
Jiankang Huang/Google Images
There are different parking and admission fees and restrictions for residents and non-residents, so be sure to check its website for current policies.
However, this is one beach you'll want to add to your bucket list because it's truly amazingly quirky.
Scott Teresi/Flickr
There's a lot of history at this beach, and locals love its sandy shores. Visitors are just amazed by its landscape, too, and its famous singing sands.
This magnificent landscape is one of the quirkiest places in all of Massachusetts.
Richard Steinlen/Google Images

Singing Beach in Massachusetts is a magnificent destination that delights locals and tourists alike… and it’s one of a few places in the state that looks mundane but will leave you surprised. Have you ever visited this squeaky site? What did you think of the singing sands? Tell us in the comments!

Craving more wonderful and weird adventures in Massachusetts? Check out the state’s weirdest destinations for more New England fun!

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More info about singing beach and other Massachusetts beaches

Chris Muras | December 29, 2022

Are dogs allowed at Singing Beach?

Dogs are allowed at Singing Beach from October 15 to April 14. A maximum of two dogs per person are allowed. Dogs must wear a collar with identification information, and dog owners must be able to see their dogs when they are off-leash. Of course, clean-up after your dogs is mandatory.

Does Singing Beach have bathrooms?

Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA does have men's and women's bathrooms with shower stalls and changing areas, as well as a wheelchair-accessible restroom with a baby changing station. There is also a "bathhouse" that was built in the 1920s which now features a snack stand. There will sometimes be a portable toilet in the parking lot as well.

What is the most beautiful beach in Massachusetts?

The most beautiful beach in Massachusetts is undoubtedly Provincetown Beach, located on the tip of Cape Cod. With its crystal clear ocean water and soft golden sand, it's no wonder why this beach has become so popular. Aside from its breathtaking views, it also offers a variety of activities for both nature enthusiasts and lake lovers alike. While Provincetown Beach could be considered the most beautiful beach in Massachusetts, there are a number of wonderful beaches in the state to enjoy. Here are a few more to visit:

1. Wingaersheek Beach, Gloucester
2. Old Silver Beach, Falmouth
3. Duxbury Beach, Duxbury
4. Madaket Beach, Nantucket
5. George Lane Beach, Weymouth
6. Bound Brook Island Beach, Wellfleet
7. Crowes Pasture Beach, East Dennis

Read more about these little-known beaches in Massachusetts. Then, make sure to add these hidden gems to your beach bucket list for your next visit to Massachusetts.

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Singing Beach, Massachusetts 01944, USA