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Introduction

The mouth of the Annisquam River makes an unlikely little harbor.

Often deserted in the spring and fall, with the yacht club shuttered, the beach empty, and the nearest public facilities two miles away, Annisquam can seem desolate. We’ve spent a day moored in the river, in fog thick enough to obscure both shores, and felt like the only boat in New England.

We’ve hung from the same mooring on a summer weekend: Day visitors anchor 3-deep off the beach. Fishermen, looking for stripers among the rocks or hunting tuna off the Isles of Shoals, come and go at all hours. It can feel like every boat in New England is passing through the Annisquam in a relentless parade.

Still, the harbor is convenient; the setting is beautiful; the protection is good. And Lobster Cove, accessible when the tide is anywhere above low, offers the snuggest moorings around.

The view from Wingaersheek Beach across the mouth of the Annisquam River. In the evening, it’s usually a quiet place to watch the setting sun light up the far shore.

The southern approach, up from Gloucester, is discussed in detail under Blynman Canal . Remember that depths in the Annisquam River change year to year, and that even a five foot draft may stumble in places near low tide. In recent years, the controlling depth has been about 4 feet on an average low.

From the north, find Red & White “AR” in Ipswich Bay. The channel into Annisquam is straight and well marked, of no particular difficulty in most conditions. A strong northerly can make it choppy and even a bit treacherous, however, especially if the tide is ebbing. The dredged portion is subject to shoaling, and can add unwelcome excitement to a transit at low water. We’ve seen depths under 6 feet in some years, but in 2010 there was at least 8 feet down the middle at average low. The thinnest spots were in the vicinity of nun “4”; south of that, there’s at least a foot or so more water through to the mooring area.

Barn Rocks, well outside the channel on the Wingaersheek side, are marked with a daybeacon.

The green and white beacon sits close against the shore between the yacht club and Lobster Cove.

There is no room to anchor comfortably in Annisquam. Boats will drop the hook off Wingaersheek Beach for the afternoon, but swinging room is limited by moorings, the bottom drops off steeply into the channel, and the current runs hard.

Annisquam is part of Gloucester, but the Gloucester Harbormaster does not maintain a full-time presence at this end of the river. There are two sources for moorings in Annisquam.

The Annisquam Yacht Club is on the east bank of the river, a bit more than a half mile south of Annisquam Harbor Light. Their guest moorings are big red balls across the channel from the clubhouse, with deep water, room to swing, and good protection from all but a strong northerly. On a pleasant summer evening, though, as the stream of boats passes by, you’ll feel either the energy of a sidewalk cafe or the charm of a roadside picnic table, depending on your frame of mind. The Annisquam Yacht Club has launch service and showers.

Lobster Cove Market and Marina oversees a few moorings within Lobster Cove which may be available for visitors. The moorings are well sheltered from all weather, and removed from the traffic in the river. The Marina is small, low-profile and pretty informally run, so it can take some effort to track them down.

Taking advantage of its placid conditions, Lobster Cove is packed as tightly with boats as any harbor in New England. The mouth is guarded by a ledge, covered maybe 5 feet at low water. Note that when entering the cove, Can “11” is a mark for the river, and must be left to starboard. The passage into Lobster Cove is between C”11″ and the Green & White beacon (GW “LC” on the chart) near shore.

There are no slips specifically for transients, although you may be able to arrange for tie-up space at the Lobster Cove Marina float.

The AYC moorings are reassuringly large, given the current they must stand up to. When it’s running, make your approach into the current to have any control. And once you’re secured, lock the rudder off straight so the boat won’t pull sideways on the mooring.

Not for navigation. charts are not updated. , going ashore.

An easy dinghy trip to the beach, to the Yacht Club float or to the Lobster Cove docks will get you to Annisquam’s best shoreside features: both sides of the river are inviting and relaxing places to walk.

On the west shore is Wingaersheek Beach, narrow at high tide and surprisingly expansive at low. As you contemplate the passage out of the river, it’s fun to watch kids playing on the beach, seemingly in reach of the nuns marking the west side of the channel.

On the east side is the village of Annisquam, whose quiet residential streets full of neat cottages are delightful to explore.

And the footbridge across Lobster Cove is nearly irresistible.

The old cottages of Annisquam blend quietly into the landscape.

The moorings in Lobster Cove, viewed from the footbridge.

One hour ashore.

Ice cream at the market in Lobster Cove, or sunset on the beach.

Off the Beaten Path

The streets of Annisquam are pretty and never crowded. The walk out to the lighthouse is short.

Maritime History

A sign on shore reads “For nearly two and a half centuries Annisquam was a fishing and shipbuilding center.” The evidence that remains is mostly read in the architecture.

There are no public indoor diversions here.

Proximity to beaches and marshes gives Annisquam its unusual beauty. It also means the harbor is more prone to insects than the built-up ports found elsewhere in Massachusetts. Midgies seem to peak in June; July can bring greenheads. We pack a few lengths of plastic screen fabric to drape over the hatches in the evenings.

The Annisquam Yacht Club launch serves their guest moorings.

To get to the village, dinghy in to the yacht club float or Lobster Cove Marina. Or dinghy to the beach.

The yacht club has showers and restrooms.

Fitting Out

There is no diesel in Annisquam; the closest is at Cape Ann Marina, near Gloucester Harbor in the Blynman Canal

Water is available at the yacht club.

The Lobster Cove Marina store has a limited selection of groceries and ice.

Annisquam Yacht Club 1-978-283-4507 VHF: 68 Book with Dockwa

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June 25, 2019

Melissa + Evan’s Annisquam Yacht Club Wedding

Tucked away in a private oceanfront corner of gloucester lies the sweet little village of annisquam, and the perfect location for melissa & evan’s annisquam yacht club  wedding..

Here is a peek into M+E’s Anniquam Yacht Club wedding day in Gloucester MA.

Melissa grew up vacationing with her family in Annisquam. This oceanfront village in Gloucester is where she spent summers—with family & friends-now-family—creating bonds for a lifetime. Evan quickly grew to love Annisquam, and though these two live in San Fran now, an Annisquam Yacht Club Wedding was an easy choice for their venue. With the help of the AMAZING Tiffany at Detailed Engagements (and now Bradstreet Farm, a gorgeous North Shore farm to table wedding venue! ), the entire village was lovingly utilized for a wedding day that exceeded their wildest dreams.

We first met Melissa & Evan when we photographed her beautiful bridesmaid & friend Alyssa’s wedding, when she married Andy at the New England Aquarium in Boston . We loved getting to see them along with Alyssa’s parents, too! It was such a fun treat!

How cool would it be if one of the groomsmen randomly started playing the old piano in the corner of the room, and all of the groomsmen spontaneously began to sing together? And if only we were filming video! (wedding film teaser…because all of that happened!)

These two are just about the kindest people you’ll ever meet. I always ask our couples how they want people to describe their day. The first word they chose was: appreciated. This one word speaks volumes about the character of this incredible couple.

Throughout the day, they took the time to connect with everyone. Melissa had to rub her cheeks because they hurt from smiling so much. Hugs were given freely along with the words “thank you for being here.”

The moment Melissa shared with her dad before heading to the lawn overlooking Annisquam Harbor to see Evan for their first look. Her siblings watched on and were ready for a group hug as soon as dad had his moment. Melissa’s sister Sara was her MOH and a rockstar throughout the whole day, always there for her big sis.

Annisquam isn’t made for traffic, which added to the adventure. Footpath signs guided the way to the pasture overlooking Annisquam Lighthouse. Melissa & Evan enjoyed a few minutes alone while guests arrived in the distance.

Look at this little guy. He debated about not making the long walk for a sec, but he did it!

I can’t believe Hadley is just making her first appearance in the highlight! I’m guessing these picture are the ones M+E will be most excited about. Proud dog parents!

I love when couples celebrate their moms…this is something we see at quite a few of our weddings, and I think it speaks to the type of couple we work with, and strong family connections. Melissa & Evan’s moms both had readings in their ceremony…and Melissa’s cousin was their officiant!

Their wedding planner, Tiffany, surprised them with a unique getaway vehicle—a vintage Land Rover! Since everyone walked from the ceremony to their Annisquam Yacht Club wedding, it made for a fun sort of receiving line.

Talk about an entrance. I’ll let the pictures do the talking from here, with two shout outs – the first to Dean & team at Annsiquam Yacht Club and to the band Redline who helped these two celebrate on the dance floor.

Behind the scenes! If you have plans to arrive to cocktail hour on a boat, COUNT ME IN. In the picture on the left, I’m shooting photo & video simultaneously since we’re providing both for them. One person who can shoot both means a pretty unobtrusive experience, even in a super limited space.

Thanks to our second shooter CC for the shot on the right…we always recommend golden hour portraits, and our favorite part about these portraits is seeing our couples enjoy the quiet together. We provide space and an excuse and they get a moment they’ll never forget. And hopefully pictures they’ll love forever.

NORTH SHORE WEDDING VENUE: ANNISQUAM YACHT CLUB – GLOUCESTER MA

WEDDING PLANNER: DETAILED ENGAGEMENTS

BAND: REDLINE

VIDEOGRAPHY: THE EWINGS

FLORIST: NUTMEG DESIGN

WEDDING GOWN: BHLDN

INVITATIONS: LIZZY G (A TALENTED FRIEND!)

HAIR & MAKEUP: DEMICHE BEAUTY

What a spectacular day, I am family overseas and couldn’t attend, but I feel like I was there. Great job! —Susan Farnsworth

Fantastic photos! You captured everything without being seen. It was a beautiful day, a beautiful wedding and a beautiful couple. All evidenced in your photos.

Thank you, Maggie! That’s just about the kindest thing you can say. 🙂

[…] I’m telling it like a fairy tale because that’s what it felt like! Wingaersheek Beach is across the harbor from Annisquuam where Melissa and Evan got married last year – see their beautiful oceanfront Yacht Club wedding here. […]

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Exploring the Rich Heritage and Seafaring Traditions of Annisquam Yacht Club

The Annisquam Yacht Club is a cherished sailing institution nestled in the picturesque coastal town of Gloucester, Massachusetts. With a rich heritage dating back to its founding in 1896, the club has become a thriving hub for sailing enthusiasts and a tight-knit community of seafaring individuals. Offering breathtaking views of the Annisquam River and the Atlantic Ocean, the club provides an idyllic setting for sailors to embark on thrilling adventures. From competitive racing events to leisurely cruises, members of the Annisquam Yacht Club can indulge in their passion for sailing while fostering lifelong friendships and embracing the timeless traditions of the sea.

#1 : A Historical Haven: Tracing the Legacy of Annisquam Yacht Club

Annisquam Yacht Club stands as a historical haven, encapsulating the rich legacy of sailing in the coastal town of Gloucester, Massachusetts. Steeped in tradition and seafaring heritage, this esteemed club has been a focal point of maritime enthusiasts since its establishment in 1896.

With its weathered wooden docks and seasoned sails, the Annisquam Yacht Club exudes a timeless charm that resonates with those who appreciate the art of sailing. As one steps onto the premises, a palpable sense of history permeates the air, whispering tales of past triumphs and challenges faced by generations of sailors.

Beyond its breathtaking location on the banks of the Annisquam River, the club's legacy is carried by its members, each a custodian of the seafaring traditions that have been meticulously preserved. It is through their shared passion for sailing that the legacy of the Annisquam Yacht Club lives on, fostering a vibrant community bound by a love for the sea.

Throughout the years, the club has witnessed countless regattas, races, and memorable voyages. It has served as a training ground for aspiring sailors and a gathering place for seasoned mariners to share their wisdom and experiences. The club's walls bear witness to the stories of triumphs and setbacks, forming a tapestry of memories that weave together to create an enduring legacy.

Today, the Annisquam Yacht Club stands not just as a physical establishment but as a testament to the enduring spirit of exploration, camaraderie, and adventure. It invites all who seek to delve into the annals of maritime history, offering a unique opportunity to trace the footsteps of those who have come before and to be inspired by their unwavering love for the sea.

#2 : Setting Sail: Embracing the Thrill of Sailing in Annisquam's Coastal Waters

Setting sail in Annisquam's coastal waters is an exhilarating experience that captures the very essence of the sea. The Annisquam Yacht Club serves as a gateway to a world of adventure, where the wind guides your vessel and the waves propel you forward into a realm of pure freedom.

As you navigate through the sparkling waters, the salty breeze caresses your face, and the rhythmic sound of lapping waves creates a soothing symphony. Annisquam's coastal waters offer a diverse playground for sailors , from calm and serene coves to more challenging open waters that test your skills.

Whether you're an experienced sailor or a novice eager to learn, the Annisquam Yacht Club provides a supportive environment where you can hone your skills and embrace the thrill of sailing. From racing events that ignite your competitive spirit to leisurely cruises that allow you to bask in the beauty of nature, there's something for everyone.

But it's not just the physical act of sailing that captivates; it's the sense of connection with the sea and the camaraderie of fellow sailors. The shared passion for sailing and the mutual appreciation for the wonders of the ocean create a sense of belonging and forge lifelong friendships.

In Annisquam's coastal waters, you'll discover a world where time stands still, and worries fade away. It's a place where you can truly embrace the thrill of sailing, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, and find solace in the vastness of the sea. So, hoist your sails, embrace the wind, and let Annisquam's coastal waters carry you on an unforgettable voyage.

#3 : Nurturing a Seafaring Community: The Bonds and Traditions of Annisquam Yacht Club

At the heart of the Annisquam Yacht Club lies a vibrant seafaring community, where bonds are forged and traditions are cherished. Beyond the love for sailing, the club serves as a gathering place for kindred spirits who share a deep appreciation for the sea.

Within its welcoming embrace, members of the Annisquam Yacht Club form lasting connections that extend far beyond the water. The club becomes a second home, a place where sailors come together to celebrate victories, console defeats, and support one another through the ebb and flow of life.

Through shared experiences on the water, friendships blossom, and a sense of camaraderie flourishes. The club's members become a tight-knit family, united by a common passion and a deep understanding of the joys and challenges that come with navigating the sea.

The traditions of the Annisquam Yacht Club serve as the threads that weave this community together. From time-honored ceremonies that pay homage to the club's history, to social gatherings that foster new connections, these traditions create a sense of continuity and belonging.

Members of all ages are welcomed with open arms, encouraging intergenerational connections and passing down seafaring knowledge from one generation to the next. In this nurturing environment, sailors young and old find mentorship, guidance, and inspiration to pursue their love for sailing.

The Annisquam Yacht Club is more than just a place to sail; it is a community that nurtures the spirit of adventure, encourages personal growth, and fosters lifelong friendships. It is a testament to the power of coming together around a shared passion and the enduring bonds that can be forged through the love of the sea.

#4 : Beyond the Waves: Exploring the Coastal Beauty and Activities Surrounding Annisquam Yacht Club

Annisquam Yacht Club is not only a gateway to exhilarating sailing experiences but also a doorway to the coastal beauty and diverse activities that surround it. Nestled in the charming town of Gloucester, Massachusetts, the club offers a myriad of opportunities for adventure and exploration.

The coastal waters around Annisquam Yacht Club are a playground for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. Picture yourself kayaking through tranquil estuaries, observing a rich array of marine life and coastal birds. Or perhaps you prefer to paddleboard along the gentle waves, feeling the invigorating sea breeze against your skin.

For those seeking a land-based adventure, the surrounding area is dotted with walking trails that meander through picturesque landscapes. From scenic coastal paths overlooking breathtaking vistas to lush nature reserves teeming with flora and fauna, there is no shortage of beauty to discover.

The town of Gloucester itself offers a vibrant arts and cultural scene, as well as a charming downtown area with quaint shops and delectable seafood restaurants. Dive into the town's maritime history by visiting museums dedicated to fishing traditions and exploring the iconic lighthouses that dot the coastline.

Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or a connoisseur of local cuisine, the area surrounding Annisquam Yacht Club presents a tapestry of experiences to enrich your time beyond the waves. The possibilities for exploration are endless, inviting you to venture into a world of coastal beauty and engaging activities that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come.

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Cape Ann: Annisquam

Cozy but sophisticated, Annisquam is the hidden jewel of Cape Ann, Massachusetts.

Nestled along Lobster Cove lies the picturesque village of Annisquam, settled in 1631 and home to several families whose ancestors go back many generations. The name derives from Native American and translates into “top of the rock” a fitting nomenclature for this hamlet of rolling hills and flinty pastureland studded with granite outcrops. In the late 19th century, Annisquam was an important area for granite quarrying and shipbuilding, launching vessels into the cove from hefty granite piers.

The shimmering light and coastline pastures also attracted many painters, and soon, the area became an established art colony, Margaret Fitz Hugh Brown and George Loftus Noyes being two of the more important artists. Today, portraits of village folk by Fitz Hugh Brown are on view in the Village Hall.

A thriving and active community belies the first impression that the village is a sleepy hollow. Annisquam is home to writers, poets, musicians, actors, and filmmakers. The village boasts one of the longest-running community theaters in the nation — the Annisquam Village Players, a troupe of semi-professional actors whose summer musicals play to sell-out audiences.

The village’s annual Sea Fair held on the last Saturday in July raises funds to maintain both the historic Village Hall and the charming Annisquam Village Church (est. 1728 and housing an important organ and harpsichord by master instrument maker Jeremy Adams) and is an old-fashioned country-style fair of games, food tables, book and white elephant sales, and the famous Wax Works, a theatrical tableaux in which local residents pose as wax figures in scenes depicting history, literature, the arts and pop culture. For history buff s, the village Historical Society is a wealth of artifacts and showcases the c.1847 stage coach that brought villagers to Gloucester Harbor.

The Market Restaurant is one of the best on Cape Ann . Owned by two young chefs trained under Alice Waters of Chez Panisse fame, the restaurant sits over the lazily lapping waters of Lobster Cove. By candlelight, diners look onto a quintessential harbor scene, enjoying beautifully presented courses deserving of a Michelin star. Bookings are essential, except for the morning menu where breakfast and the paper make the perfect beginning to a summer’s day.

Two beaches stretch along the outer coastline and face Ipswich Bay. Cambridge Beach is private to village residents, but Lighthouse Beach is public and reached by footpath through pastureland that opens onto sandy shores looking toward Annisquam Lighthouse, first built in 1801, later replaced in 1851, and again in 1897, with final repairs completed in 2000. Th e foghorn is in use only in summer and only during daylight as not to disturb the tranquility of summer residents.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Derrick Mills (@dcmillsphotos) on Aug 21, 2020 at 7:00am PDT

Those hunting for antiques and oddities will be beguiled by the Annisquam Exchange, housed in the original one-room schoolhouse in the village center. Open Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day, the Exchange is nonpareil for treasures. Occasionally, one will spot a rare textile by the famous Folly Cove designers, a coveted find! Upstairs at the Exchange Art Gallery, paintings by local artists rotate through summer exhibitions and make for lovely mementos of this unspoiled community.

What would summer be without a good book? Next to the Exchange, the Village Library is open on Monday afternoons and Thursday evenings. Remember the rubber stamp that noted the due date on a yellow card? Th at stamp is still in use in the library; although the stamp may be quaint, the shelves are stocked with contemporary editions as well as historical literature and books by local authors.

Sailing is in the blood of Cape Ann residents and is no less the case for Annisquamers. The Annisquam Yacht Club (founded 1896) provides its members a haven for sailing, yachting, tennis, and friendship. The club has a limited number of guest moorings and can accommodate visiting boats up to 45’.

Where to stay? The Brynmere looks out at Cambridge Beach, “at the point where the river meets the open sea,” and has been a summer hotel since the late 19th century. Step onto the porch, through the screened door and into the warmth of another era. In 1905, the Brynmere was listed as one of Gloucester’s “grand hotels.” Although rooms are no longer $3 a day, the hotel is a favorite among those who return year after year to its charm.

By Beatrice E.

Featured image: Annisquam’s Lobster Cove (Credit: Ren Fuller; Courtesy: The Market Restaurant)

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Eight Outstanding North Shore Neighborhoods as Diverse as Essex County

Taking an early morning walk downtown for coffee and running into a neighbor out walking their dog. Meeting for a picnic dinner on the beach with friends who live next door. Attending block parties and neighborhood events with people and families you’ve known for years—or maybe only months. It’s all part of a community spirit that makes living on the North Shore so special. These eight neighborhoods may embody that community spirit in disparate ways, but they all have one thing in common: the love of the people who call them home. 

Annisquam Gloucester

A thin peninsula in Gloucester between Lobster Cove and the Annisquam River, Annisquam is a bit of an island within an island. It has only one way in and out, is more accessible on foot or by bike than by car, and has always been less industrial and built up than the rest of Gloucester, which is celebrating its 400th anniversary this year. 

Like all of Cape Ann, Annisquam has long attracted artists.

“It has marvelous light, with how it reflects off the water into sort of a pastoral scene with the marshes and beaches,” says Dave Pearce, president of the Annisquam Association, which owns property with a number of historic buildings, including a former school and firehouse, that have been reimagined into new uses.

Yet Annisquam still manages to pack a ton of culture into its small footprint. Yes, it has one restaurant, but that restaurant is Talise , a highly reviewed seasonal spot on Lobster Cove that taps local farmers and fishermen for its dishes. It’s also home to the Cape Ann Shakespeare Troupe, an art gallery, historical society, and the Annisquam Yacht Club. 

Over the years, Annisquam has stayed quiet, serene, and hard to get to. It’s also a true neighborhood, where many families and traditions, like the Fourth of July parade, go back decades.

“We’ve been able to maintain a village atmosphere in an otherwise fast-moving age, and people kind of appreciate that,” says Steve Harris, president of the Annisquam Village Hall Association. “They feel that when they come here.”

The North Common, Lawrence

Lawrence has long been a melting pot, where generations of immigrants change and rechange the fabric of the city as new groups move in and out. A fantastic, living example of this is the North Common neighborhood, which is a mix of old-school Italian and new-school Hispanic businesses, people, culture, and events. 

On the old-school side is the neighborhood’s Italian heritage. A century ago, this neighborhood was predominantly Italian, and vestiges of that remain, thanks to iconic spots like Tripoli Pizza & Bakery and Fisichelli’s Pastry Shop, where people come from near and far for pizza, bread, cannoli, cookies, and other Italian specialties. 

Another Italian-American tradition there is the annual Feast of the Three Saints, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Every Labor Day weekend, the feast takes over Common Street to celebrate three martyred saints—Italian brothers Alfio, Filadelfo, and Cirino—with food, music, a parade, games, and more. 

“We are an Italian cultural festival, and we’re proud of being Italian-American, but you don’t have to be Italian to enjoy,” says Tony Palmisano, president of the Saint Alfio Society, a nonprofit, cultural charitable organization that runs the Feast of the Three Saints. 

Today, the neighborhood has become home to families from places like Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and other Hispanic countries, and that’s reflected in the businesses and events that make the neighborhood so vibrant, from the annual Semana Hispana festival in June that celebrated Hispanic culture with rides, live music, and food, to restaurants like El Taller, Terra Luna Café, and Bali’s Restaurant.

Downtown Haverhill

Downtown Haverhill, with its location on the Merrimack River and iconic, antique brick factory buildings, has been experiencing something of a slow-burn Renaissance over recent years, with the addition of new restaurants and businesses, high-end living space like The Heights, a UMass Lowell satellite campus at Harbor Place, and a beautiful riverfront boardwalk. There are also largescale outdoor murals, public art, and a loop-walk that crosses the river twice and includes the Bradford Rail Trail, not to mention drinking and dining options ranging from local brews and river views at The Tap Brewing Company to authentic Irish food and music at The Peddler’s Daughter. 

“There’s always people around, there’s always people walking downtown,” says Alexandria Eberhardt, president and CEO of the Greater Haverhill Chamber. “It’s really an amazing cultural atmosphere.”

Now, downtown Haverhill’s renaissance is continuing with projects like Lupoli Companies’ plan for a mixed-use development with apartments, retail and commercial space, a new parking facility, and outdoor areas. A just-approved apartment development on nearby Water Street is also in the works. 

And, of course, you can’t mention downtown Haverhill development without talking about Historic New England’s ambitious, transformative plan to build the Historic New England Center for Preservation and Collections (read more about it here ), which promises to be a cultural destination for Haverhill, New England, and beyond.

As downtown Haverhill continues to break ground on new projects, it’s also becoming more and more of a draw for people looking for fun, vibrant, and multicultural city living that’s accessible to Boston (downtown is steps away from the commuter rail) while still being affordable. 

“There’s a real urban feel, which I think makes it so attractive to younger folks,” says Kate Martin, vice president of the Haverhill Chamber.

Salisbury Beach, Salisbury

The word “neighborhood” might not jump to mind when you hear ”Salisbury Beach,” but that just means the people who live there are in on a fabulous little secret: Your summer vacation spot is the place they call home.

From high-end condos and apartments with ocean views to the beachfront and beach-adjacent houses located near the shore, more and more people are calling Salisbury Beach home all year long.

“There have been amazing, incredible changes in the landscape down here from a residential perspective over the last 10 years,” says Kathy Aiello, managing director of Atlantic Hospitality Group and member of the board of directors of the nonprofit Salisbury Beach Partnership. 

In fact, Salisbury Beach has been undergoing an incredible revitalization over the past 15 years, thanks to the work of the Salisbury Beach Partnership, a collective of local residents and beach merchants who wanted to create a better community and destination for families and visitors. Their work has ranged from revitalizing the dunes, to creating more accessible beach access, to adding family-friendly programming like free outdoor concerts and weekly fireworks over the ocean.

You can spend an entire weekend, eating, drinking, and living well, thanks to spots like the easy, breezy Groundswell Surf Café, the elegant Seaglass Restaurant and Lounge, Blue Ocean Music Hall, Capri Seaside Italian Kitchen & Pizza, and Sin-A-Loa Tacos and Tequila, not to mention “beach pizza” faves Tripoli and Cristy’s and many other spots.

Salisbury Beach’s newest addition is a beautifully restored, historic carousel, which just opened at the end of June. The year-round, handicapped-accessible carousel is located in a “brand-new, stunning pavilion building . . . right on Broadway,” Aiello says.

That’s saying nothing of the beach itself.

“Salisbury Beach is really a hidden gem,” Aiello says. “There’s three miles of pristine beach that starts at the mouth of the Merrimack River and goes up to the New Hampshire border.”

Meeting House Common District, Lynnfield

Lynnfield has become a North Shore hub for shopping and dining, thanks to MarketStreet Lynnfield, but the town’s historic heart is the Meeting House Common District around the Town Common. 

“While MarketStreet has a lot of great advantages and benefits, there are still a lot of residents who like that old, quiet town square,” says Kirk Mansfield, chair of the Lynnfield Historical Commission and lifelong Lynnfield resident. 

There’s a lot to like. Mansfield points to recent improvements to the Town Common, including new lamps, benches, grass, and sprinklers. Visiting the Town Common also provides a chance to experience the Lynnfield Tree Story Walk, which teaches visitors about 12 different native trees on the common

The district isn’t just named for the common, though. It’s also named for The Old Meeting House, which is one of the oldest Puritan Congregationalist meeting houses still standing in Massachusetts and has become “very popular” for rentals. The entire district is also on the National Register of Historic Places and includes other historic buildings and the Old Burying Ground, which includes the grave of Daniel Townsend, one of the first soldiers killed in the Revolutionary War.

Whether it’s to get a glimpse of history or just enjoy the quiet of nature, the Meeting House Common District offers respite from the bustle of daily life.

“It’s beautiful,” Mansfield says. “It just gives you that very quaint feeling.”

Marblehead Neck, Marblehead 

Marblehead is one of the North Shore’s most definitive “can’t get there from here” destinations, and that’s especially true for Marblehead Neck. Connected to the mainland by a causeway between Marblehead Harbor and the open ocean, Marblehead Neck is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in Massachusetts, filled with stately mansions and not one but three yacht clubs: Pleon, Eastern, and Corinthian. It also provides the perfect perch to watch sailboats, including the annual Marblehead to Halifax Ocean Race.

But its seaside and sailing proximity isn’t the only reason Marblehead Neck is worth a visit. Its northern tip is home to the striking metal Marblehead Lighthouse at the 3.74-acre Chandler Hovey Park, where benches overlooking the ocean dot the rocky shore.

The south-central end of the Neck contains the 20-acre Marblehead Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, where migratory birds take refuge in the swamp, thickets, and woodlands during their spring and fall migration season. Explore the habitat and woodlands on nearly a mile of the sanctuary trails. 

Shawsheen Village Historic District, Andover 

Today, Shawsheen Village Historic District is a picturesque, tree-lined neighborhood within walking distance of downtown Andover. Kids play in their neighbors’ backyards, the residents celebrate with block parties, and everyone knows everybody else. 

“There’s just a sense of community that I imagine you don’t find in many other places,” says resident David Clermont, who’s lived there with his wife and four kids since 2014.

It was, in fact, built to be that way. 

One hundred years ago, in 1923, the American Woolen Company moved its headquarters from Boston to Andover, and in doing so, built a self-contained company village for its upper and middle management. The identical white houses with green shutters in “White Shawsheen” were designated for the company’s middle management and clerical staff, while the fancier brick houses in “Brick Shawsheen” were built for upper management. The company also built amenities for shopping, boating, sports, movies, bowling, and swimming, creating a place where employees lived, worked, and played. 

Today, the company has gone, but the village remains, and so does the community. Clermont lives in White Shawsheen, and says he probably knows the names of families in every one of the roughly 100 houses. At the same time, the neighborhood is within walking distance to downtown Andover and close to the commuter rail and highways. But most important are the people. 

“Walking around, you get the feeling that everyone’s out to take care of each other,” he says. 

Byfield, Newbury

Byfield is a small village in the town of Newbury, with one restaurant (the don’t-miss BBQ joint, Rusty Can) and little in the way of commercial activity. It’s also quiet and pastoral, tucked along the Parker River and beside the Byfield & Boxford Rail Trail. 

“It’s a really cool, quiet neighborhood. Very friendly and super-artistic,” says Dave Hill, who grew up in Byfield and is now president and general manager of the Byfield Community Arts Center.

Locals and visitors can experience Byfield’s artistic proclivity, thanks to the newly refurbished Byfield Community Arts Center, home to live theater, music, and arts programming. With a performance space and a small bar offering beer, wine, and basic cocktails, the Arts Center is having a grand reopening around Labor Day, with a brand-new slate of programming starting this fall and running through the season, which ends in May. It also hosts resident theater groups and offers space for art classes.

“We’ve got a lot of cool events happening starting in September that we’re really excited about,” Hill says. “People can expect on Fridays and Saturdays to be able to say, ‘Hey, I wonder what’s going on at the Art Center.’”

Among the already scheduled happenings in September and October are performances by Wanderheart, Entrain, Soul Rebel Project, and many others, with additional events being added soon for later in the season.

“There’s no other place like it around locally for kind of this kind of showcase atmosphere for live music,” Hills says.

Annisquam Yacht Club

Location & Hours

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19 River Rd

Gloucester, MA 01930

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Overall rating

Great spot, view is to die for, but be forewarned, this is a private club with a members only policy. Food is above average for club food, but if you want cutting edge or farm to table go down the street to the market (which is among the best on the north shore). If you are out cruising and want to stop in for dinner and a cocktail this is the place for you. Also great for weddings and other major events. Important to keep in mind that this club caters to its members, it is not in the business of being everything to everyone. So take it as it is and you will likely be pleased. I have read the reviews on moorings etc. and they seem odd. Reservation policies exist to protect against cancellations, which is what one reviewer tried. Seems that they should have followed the rules.

Lovely spot on the annisquam river to view the sunset and wingaersheek beach. Private club and docks that sit In The middle of the river on pylons. Active social environment, sailing and tennis and friendly members.

When I think of a yacht club, old money, old folks with old money, and lots more old money come to mind. Though the view iwas spectacular, I felt like an uninvited guest here. My bf's folks are members and membership is a requirement to dine at this establishment. Maybe I was just paranoid, but I felt that others were giving me the evil eye. The food and service were great but the experience left me with an indifferent vibe.

3 other reviews that are not currently recommended

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Annisquam Yacht Club

17 River Road, Gloucester, MA

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