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Purchase this 14 X 10 print of a fox at Hardings Beach, captured by photographer Christopher Seufert

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Hardings Beach is the largest all-around family beach on the Lower Cape, just barely edging out Ridgevale Beach in South Chatham.  It faces south on Nantucket Sound, which is characterized by its calm, warm waters,  and is loaceted at the end of Hardings Beach Road (off of Barn Hill Road) in West Chatham. There are two parking lots, three life guard stations, a bathhouse with shower and food service trucks in each lot.  Beach stickers for non-resident parking can only be purchased with cash at the on-site beach booth.  Residents can purchase stickers at the booths or at the permit office at 283 George Ryder Road.

This is a wonderful beach for the game of your choice- beach bocce (a local specialty), volleyball, frisbee, wiffle ball, or just build a sand castle with the kids.  A highlight here also is the hiking trail that extends benhind the beach after the second parking lot. Take it easy in your bare feet on a mild nature hike one mile down to the lighthouse or set a more serious pace in your walking or running shoes.

Anywere outside the marked swimming areas is the place to launch your sailboat or kayak. (Monomoy Island makes a great destination from this beach.)  You can also leave your boat for the week or season in the dunes after the second parking lot.  You'll see the others who've left theirs before you.