What to expect at East Beach

East Beach sits on the eastern shore of Chappaquiddick Island, across the water from Edgartown. It is a sheltered beach facing Nantucket Sound, which means calmer water than the Atlantic-facing beaches on Martha's Vineyard's south shore. The beach itself is narrow and sandy, backed by low dunes and beach grass. You can fish from shore here, and the protected waters hold striped bass, bluefish, and flounder depending on the season.

Access requires either a boat or the On Time ferry, a small car ferry that runs year-round between Edgartown and Chappaquiddick. The ferry ride takes about five minutes. Once on Chappaquiddick, East Beach is a short drive from the ferry landing. The beach has no facilities — no restrooms, no parking lot, no concessions — so plan accordingly. Parking is roadside only, and space fills quickly on summer weekends.

Key Takeaways

  • East Beach faces Nantucket Sound and offers calmer water than Martha's Vineyard's ocean beaches, making it better for wading anglers and smaller boats.
  • Striped bass and bluefish are the primary targets; spring and fall are the most productive seasons for both species.
  • Access is by the On Time ferry from Edgartown, which runs multiple times daily year-round and costs a few dollars per vehicle.
  • The beach has no facilities, parking is roadside only, and the area is lightly developed, so bring water and plan to stay self-sufficient.
  • Massachusetts saltwater fishing regulations apply; you need a saltwater fishing license if you are a resident, or a three-day or seven-day non-resident permit.

Seasons and what fish are present

Spring (April through May) brings striped bass to the Sound as they move north from wintering grounds. Water temperatures climb from the 40s into the 50s, and bass feed actively in the shallows around East Beach. Bluefish arrive a few weeks later, usually by late May, and both species remain through June.

Summer (July and August) sees water temperatures in the 70s, which can slow daytime fishing. Early morning and evening sessions are more productive than midday. Flounder move into the shallower parts of the Sound during summer and can be caught from shore with live bait or small jigs.

Fall (September through October) is the strongest season. Water cools back into the 60s and 50s, and both striped bass and bluefish feed heavily before their fall migration. Baitfish congregate in the Sound, and the calmer water of East Beach makes it easier to sight-cast or work structure. October is often the peak month.

Winter (November through March) is slow. Water temperatures drop into the 30s and 40s, and most fish have moved south or into deeper water. A few hardy anglers fish for winter flounder in December and January, but the season is not popular and access can be difficult in rough weather.

How to reach East Beach and where to park

The On Time ferry departs from Edgartown's Main Street dock, near the Edgartown Yacht Club. The ferry runs year-round, with departures roughly every 10 to 15 minutes during peak season (summer) and less frequently in winter. The crossing takes about five minutes. Fares are a few dollars per vehicle; walk-ons pay less. The ferry operates from early morning to late evening, with exact hours varying by season.

Once on Chappaquiddick, follow Chappaquiddick Road east toward the Mytoi Japanese garden and the Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge. East Beach is accessible from the road, but parking is limited to roadside pull-offs. There is no dedicated parking lot. On summer weekends, spaces fill by mid-morning, and you may need to park a quarter-mile away and walk. Arrive early or fish on weekdays if you want reliable parking.

If you have a boat, you can launch from Edgartown's public ramp on Cogswell Avenue and motor across the Sound to East Beach. The crossing is short and the water is usually calm, but check the forecast — the Sound can build chop quickly in wind.

Fishing techniques and what gear to bring

Shore fishing at East Beach works best with spinning rods in the 6- to 7-foot range, spooled with 15- to 20-pound braided line. For striped bass, throw small plugs (2 to 3 inches), soft plastics rigged on jig heads, or live eels if you can source them locally. Bluefish will take the same lures but are less picky — they hit aggressively and will shred lighter line, so use a short fluorocarbon leader.

For flounder, a 6-foot medium-light rod with 10- to 12-pound line works well. Fish live sand eels or silversides on a simple two-hook rig, or use small jigs tipped with shrimp. Flounder hold in slightly deeper water just off the beach, so you may need to wade out 30 to 50 feet or cast from a kayak to reach them consistently.

The beach is sandy with little structure, so success depends on reading the water. Fish the drop-off where the beach shelf breaks deeper — usually 50 to 100 feet from shore. Early morning and evening are most productive. Overcast days often fish better than bright sun. Bring polarized sunglasses to spot cruising bass in the shallows.

Regulations and licensing requirements

Massachusetts requires a saltwater fishing license for all residents 16 and older. Non-residents can purchase a three-day or seven-day permit, or a full-year license. Licenses are sold online through the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries website, at tackle shops in Edgartown, and sometimes at the ferry dock.

Striped bass have a 19-inch minimum size and a one-fish-per-day limit for recreational anglers. Bluefish have no size minimum but a 10-fish-per-day limit. Flounder (summer flounder) have a 19-inch minimum and a 10-fish-per-day limit. These regulations can change, so check the current rules before you fish.

Chappaquiddick is part of Martha's Vineyard, and some areas are protected land. East Beach itself is open to fishing, but respect posted signs and do not trespass on private property or into the Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge without a permit.

When the beach is crowded and quieter alternatives

East Beach fills with swimmers and beachgoers from mid-June through August, especially on weekends. If you want to avoid crowds, fish on weekday mornings or visit in May, September, or October. Early morning (sunrise to 9 a.m.) is quieter than afternoon on any day.

If East Beach is too crowded or you want to explore other options, Edgartown's public beaches (Main Beach and South Beach) are closer and have more facilities, but they are also busier. For a quieter experience, the north shore of Martha's Vineyard (Menemsha Bight, Lambert's Cove) offers different structure and fewer people, though the water is slightly colder and the fishing can be less predictable.

What to bring and how to stay safe

Bring plenty of fresh water — there are no fountains or shops at East Beach. Sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses are essential. A small cooler with ice will keep your catch fresh. Wear wading shoes or boots if you plan to wade; the bottom is sandy but can have sharp shells or rocks.

The Sound is generally calm, but weather can change quickly. Check the forecast before you go, and do not fish if wind is forecast to exceed 15 knots. If you are wading, never turn your back to the water, and stay aware of the tide — the Sound has a moderate tidal range, and currents can develop in narrow channels.

The ferry runs until late evening, but confirm the last departure time before you arrive. Missing the ferry means either waiting for the next one or arranging a boat ride back. Cell service is spotty on Chappaquiddick, so do not rely on it for emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish East Beach?

No. You can reach East Beach by the On Time ferry as a walk-on or with a vehicle. Shore fishing from the beach is productive for striped bass and bluefish, especially in spring and fall. A boat gives you more water to cover and access to deeper structure, but it is not required.

What is the best time of year to fish East Beach?

Fall (September and October) is the strongest season. Water temperatures are in the 50s and 60s, baitfish are abundant, and both striped bass and bluefish feed heavily. Spring (April and May) is also good. Summer is slower during the day but can be productive at dawn and dusk.

Can I bring my dog to East Beach?

Dogs are allowed on Chappaquiddick beaches, but check current town rules — some areas have seasonal restrictions. Keep your dog under control and clean up after it. The ferry allows dogs, though they may need to be on a leash during boarding.

How much does the ferry cost?

The On Time ferry charges a few dollars per vehicle and less for walk-ons. Exact fares change seasonally. Check the Edgartown town website or call the ferry dock for current prices. The ferry runs year-round, with more frequent departures in summer.

What if I catch a fish — where can I clean it?

There are no cleaning stations at East Beach. You can clean your catch at home or at a tackle shop in Edgartown if they offer the service. Bring a fillet knife and a plastic bag if you plan to clean fish on the beach, and dispose of waste responsibly — do not leave scraps on the beach.