Half Moon

Gloucester offers a diverse range of dining options near Half Moon Beach. For seafood lovers, Seaport Grille provides a waterfront experience with a wide menu of surf 'n' turf dishes. Another popular choice is Lobsta Land Restaurant, known for its creative seafood dishes. For those seeking a different culinary experience, Oak to Ember offers a cozy atmosphere with a focus on craft cocktails and wine. Azorean Restaurant & Bar serves Portuguese-inspired dishes in a warm setting. Lastly, Tonno Gloucester combines Italian and seafood cuisine with a chic ambiance.

These restaurants cater to various tastes and preferences, ensuring that visitors to Half Moon Beach have a delightful dining experience.

Visitors to Half Moon Beach can choose from several excellent hotels in Gloucester. The Beauport Hotel Gloucester offers elegant beachfront accommodations with a rooftop pool and bar. Another option is The Hotel at Cape Ann Marina, which provides a simple yet comfortable stay with an on-site restaurant. For a more relaxed atmosphere, Ocean House Hotel at Bass Rocks offers traditional quarters with ocean views. Blue Shutters Beachside Inn provides direct beach access in a laid-back setting. Lastly, Gloucester By the Sea Motel offers casual accommodations with ocean views.

These hotels cater to different needs and preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for visitors to Half Moon Beach.

Half Moon Beach and Stage Fort Park offer several amenities to enhance the visitor experience. The park includes restrooms located at the Visitors Center, picnic areas, and grills for cooking. The beach is handicapped accessible with a concrete ramp leading down to the beach area. Additionally, there is a snack shack called The Cupboard, which serves a variety of food options, including fried clams and ice cream. Pets are allowed in the park but not on the beach during peak season. Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day, providing a safe environment for swimmers.

The park's amenities make it an ideal spot for family outings and picnics. The nearby town center offers additional services and facilities, including shops and restaurants.

Half Moon Beach offers a range of activities for visitors. Swimming and sunbathing are popular pastimes, with the beach's shallow waters making it suitable for families. The rocky shoreline is perfect for exploring and discovering local sea life. Photography enthusiasts will enjoy capturing the scenic views and unique rock formations. The beach is also a great spot for watching sunsets or taking a leisurely morning walk. In the surrounding Stage Fort Park, visitors can enjoy picnics, use the grills, or attend local events like concerts and festivals.

For those interested in more active pursuits, the nearby Gloucester town center offers opportunities for shopping and dining. The area's rich history and scenic coastline also make it a great base for exploring Cape Ann.

Half Moon Beach is handicapped accessible, with a concrete ramp leading down to the beach area. This ensures that visitors with mobility impairments can easily access the beach. Additionally, the nearby restrooms at the Visitors Center are also accessible. While the beach itself is accessible, navigating the surrounding park may require some effort due to the terrain. Overall, the beach and park offer a welcoming environment for visitors of all abilities.

For those requiring additional assistance, it may be beneficial to contact local authorities or park management in advance to ensure that all needs are met during the visit.

Parking for Half Moon Beach is available on-site at Stage Fort Park. Residents of Gloucester can park for free, while non-residents are charged a fee of $15 on weekdays and $20 on weekends. The parking lot fills up quickly during peak season, so it is advisable to arrive early. Alternative parking options may be available in nearby town parking lots, though this may require a short walk to the beach.

The parking fees at Half Moon Beach are relatively lower compared to other beaches in the area, making it a more affordable option for visitors.

Half Moon Beach has several interesting historical and natural aspects. It is located in Stage Fort Park, which was the site of Gloucester's first settlers in 1623. The beach's crescent shape and rocky shoreline provide a unique habitat for local sea life, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts. The area is also known for its scenic beauty, with the changing colors of the water at different times of day creating a picturesque backdrop for photography. Additionally, the beach's proximity to Gloucester's vibrant town center means visitors can easily access local events and cultural attractions.

The combination of history, natural beauty, and cultural activities makes Half Moon Beach a compelling destination for those interested in exploring Cape Ann.

Half Moon Beach is surrounded by several attractions that enhance its appeal. The beach is part of Stage Fort Park, which is steeped in history as the site of Gloucester's first settlers. The park hosts various events, including concerts and festivals, which add to the lively atmosphere during the summer. Visitors can also explore the nearby Gloucester town center, which offers a range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. For those interested in exploring further, Cape Ann provides a beautiful coastline with numerous beaches and scenic hiking trails.

The area's rich maritime history and picturesque landscapes make it a fascinating place to visit, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.