Horseneck

Near Horseneck Beach, there are several excellent dining options. Bittersweet Farm Restaurant and Tavern offers upscale American cuisine in a rustic setting, complete with a cozy tavern. The Galley Grille is a family-friendly restaurant serving American and seafood dishes with a casual atmosphere. For a taste of Portuguese cuisine, Portas Da Cidade provides a unique dining experience with patio seating. Kozy Nook Restaurant is a local favorite for homestyle American meals. These restaurants offer a mix of fine dining and casual eats, catering to various tastes and preferences.

For accommodations near Horseneck Beach, several hotels are available. The Hampton Inn Fall River/Westport offers modern amenities like an indoor pool and sports courts. The Best Western Dartmouth-New Bedford provides a modest stay with free breakfast and Wi-Fi. For a more intimate experience, The Paquachuck Inn is a charming bed and breakfast in Westport Point.

Horseneck Beach State Reservation offers a range of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The beach features accessible restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. There is also a 100-site campground with basic amenities like restrooms and showers. Visitors can enjoy concessions within the park, though it's advisable to come prepared with necessary supplies. The reservation includes a boat ramp and trailer/R.V. dumping station, catering to boating enthusiasts. Additionally, the beach provides beach wheelchairs for accessibility.

Horseneck Beach State Reservation is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include swimming, fishing, sailing, and boating. The beach is also ideal for windsurfing due to its consistent breezes. Visitors can explore the nature trails at Gooseberry Island, which offer scenic views and opportunities for birdwatching. The reservation is renowned for its birdlife, particularly during spring and fall migrations. Camping is another major attraction, with the campground located behind the dunes, offering a serene oceanfront experience.

Horseneck Beach State Reservation offers several accessibility features. The beach has handicap-accessible parking, restrooms, and ramps. Additionally, beach wheelchairs are available for visitors with mobility impairments. The campground also provides accessible facilities, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the reservation's amenities. The paved walking path along the beach is ADA-accessible, allowing everyone to explore the shoreline.

Parking at Horseneck Beach State Reservation is convenient, with several large designated parking lots available. There is a daily parking fee charged from May 25 through October 14, with rates varying for Massachusetts residents and non-residents. Mobile payments are accepted via the YODEL app for added convenience. The parking lots are located near the beach, making it easy to access the shoreline and other facilities within the reservation.

Horseneck Beach State Reservation has a rich history and unique features. The name 'Horseneck' is believed to derive from the Algonquin word for 'a house made of stone,' though it may also refer to the long land mass resembling a horse's head. The area was once home to summer residences, many of which were destroyed by hurricanes in the 20th century. Today, it is one of Massachusetts' most popular state parks, attracting visitors for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The beach is also a critical habitat for rare species like the piping plover.

Near Horseneck Beach, attractions include the historic Horseneck Point Life-Saving Station and Gooseberry Island, which offer insights into the area's maritime history and ecology. The nearby Emma Tripp Landing allows visitors to launch kayaks and explore the tidal inlets of the salt marshes. For those interested in nature, the reservation's diverse habitats support a wide range of wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching and nature walks.