Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
The National Seashore claimed this stretch in the 1960s, halting development and preserving what Truro residents already knew: Head of the Meadow is the Outer Cape's most unspoiled ocean beach. You'll walk past beach plum thickets and poison ivy tangles to reach sand that slopes gently toward waves powerful enough to demand respect. The shoreline shifts constantly—storms carve new cliffs into the dunes, exposing layers of peat from ancient forests. The beach takes its name from the salt meadow that once sprawled behind these dunes, now mostly reclaimed by the sea. What remains is a landscape stripped to essentials: sand, grass, sky, and an ocean that can turn from flat calm to six-foot breakers within hours. Lifeguards patrol in summer, but come September, you'll have acres to yourself, sharing the strand with piping plovers and the occasional harbor seal. Bring everything you need—there's a bathhouse and outdoor showers, but no snack bar, no rental umbrellas, no distractions from the fundamental experience of standing where land ends. The nearest coffee is a ten-minute drive south. The nearest Wi-Fi even farther. That's precisely the point.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Head of the Meadow Beach.
Photos
Head of the Meadow Beach is generally safe for swimming, but conditions vary. The Atlantic-facing beach can have strong currents, rip tides, and powerful waves, especially during storms or high surf. Lifeguards are on duty during summer months (late June through early September), typically 9am-5pm. Always swim near a lifeguard station and check the flag warning system before entering the water. The beach has steep drop-offs, so supervise children closely. Cold water temperatures, even in summer, can range from 60-70°F, which may feel shocking initially.
Summer (June-August) offers the warmest weather and full amenities including lifeguards, but brings larger crowds. Fall (September-October) provides beautiful scenery, fewer visitors, and comfortable temperatures for walking, though the water is cold. Spring can be windy and chilly. Winter offers dramatic storm-watching and solitude, but facilities are closed and parking is limited. For the best balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds, visit in early September or late June. The beach faces east, making sunrise viewing spectacular year-round.
Head of the Meadow Beach is located off Head of the Meadow Road in North Truro. From Route 6, take Head of the Meadow Road exit and follow signs approximately 2 miles to the beach. A large parking lot accommodates visitors, but it fills quickly on summer weekends—arrive before 10am for best availability. Parking requires a Cape Cod National Seashore pass ($25 daily or $45 annual) during peak season. The lot may be gated or unstaffed off-season. No public transportation serves the beach directly.
Head of the Meadow Beach has basic amenities including restrooms and outdoor showers, open seasonally. There are no food concessions at the beach itself, so bring your own supplies, snacks, and plenty of water. The nearest restaurants and grocery stores are in Truro center, about 3-4 miles away, or Provincetown, approximately 6 miles north. Nearby lodging options include small inns, vacation rentals, and campgrounds in Truro. The beach has no shade structures, so bring umbrellas or sun tents for protection during summer visits.
Head of the Meadow Beach is renowned for its dramatic, unspoiled natural beauty within Cape Cod National Seashore. The beach features towering sand dunes, wide stretches of pristine shoreline, and spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean with minimal development in sight. The backdrop of dune grass and scrub pine creates stunning contrast against blue water. Its remote location preserves a wild, untouched character rare on Cape Cod. The area offers excellent opportunities for nature photography, beachcombing, and observing seabirds and seals, especially during migration seasons.
