Sandy Neck Beach Park (Sandy Neck), a coastal barrier beach,
is approximately six miles long, varying in width from 200 yards to
one-half mile. The majority of this unique conservation and recreation
area is owned by the Town of Barnstable and is under the supervision
and jurisdiction of the Town Manager, with the advice of Sandy Neck
Board. The Sandy Neck Park Manager (Park Manager) handles daily operations.
Help us to preserve and protect the heritage and integrity of this
resource by reading this brochure and abiding by the rules and regulations
outlined herein.
Shorebirds, including piping plovers and least terns, nest on
Sandy Neck. To protect nesting activity, shorebird nesting areas are
fenced to exclude pedestrians and speed limits are reduced to five
miles per hour where posted. The piping plover, a threatened species
under the Endangered Species Act, is given special protection once
eggs begin to hatch. Pursuant to federal, state and local law, vehicle
traffic is limited to protect developing chicks not yet able to fly.
During times of beach closures, the Park Manager and his/her designee
reserves the right to restrict or limit vehicle access and determine
or change parking arrangements on Sandy Neck. The Park Manager and/or
Natural Resource Officers have final discretion on all beach parking.
Additional restrictions may apply. Failure to comply with these restrictions
may result in immediate removal from the property for no less than
24 hours and/or revocation of the off-road vehicles (ORVs) permit.
Alcoholic beverages are prohibited on all public lands at Sandy
Neck including all parking areas, public ways, the Great Marsh and
Bodfish Park.
If you have any questions pertaining to Sandy Neck operations,
call the Gatehouse at 508-362-8300 or the Marine and Environmental
Affairs Office at 508-790-6272.