The Nauset Light was moved 300 feet back from the edge of the cliff in 1996 to prevent it from falling into the Atlantic Ocean.
The lighthouse is a decommissioned range light originally built in 1877 at Chatham and moved to its current location in 1923.
The beach is characterized by high, sandy bluffs that are prone to ongoing erosion.
The lighthouse's distinct red band was added in 1940 to improve its visibility during daylight hours.
It is a popular location for spotting seals in the surf, which in turn occasionally attract great white sharks near the shoreline.
Nauset Light Beach is a prominent coastal feature of the Cape Cod National Seashore in Eastham, Massachusetts. The site is identified by the iconic red-and-white banded Nauset Light, a historic lighthouse relocated inland from its original position due to severe cliff erosion. The beach features high glacial dunes and expansive Atlantic Ocean frontage. Swimming is permitted, though the water temperature remains cold year-round. Lifeguards are stationed at the beach during the peak summer season. The beach is managed by the National Park Service as part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. It offers significant views of the Atlantic horizon and the surrounding coastal bluff landscape.
The elevated boardwalk and stairs looking down toward the beach with the lighthouse visible in the background.
Arrive early in the day as the small parking lot fills up quickly during the summer months.
Bring binoculars for better views of the seals and potential marine life sightings.
Prepare for a steep walk down the stairs from the parking area to the sand.
Do not attempt to swim near seals, as they are primary prey for local shark populations.
Lifeguard services are seasonal; parking lot fees are applicable during the summer season.
Stay off the fragile dunes to prevent erosion; pack out all trash to keep the area clean.
