New Ocean Beach Stickers Required

This season, Eastham beach-goers need an extra sticker to access parking for the ocean beaches managed by the Cape Cod National Seashore. We chat with seashore superintendent Jennifer Flynn.

What is the new beach sticker in Eastham?

5 July 2024 — EASTHAM, MA — Starting July 01, parking at Eastham's two oceanside beaches requires a new beach sticker. Nauset Light Beach and Coastguard Beach are operated by the National Seashore, who, as per an agreement with the Town of Eastham, offers designated and free parking spaces for Eastham taxpayers. Now, the only valid proof of identification for East residents is the new ocean beach specific sticker.

The new sticker only impacts Eastham residents. All other visitors to the beach can purchase parking at the entrance and use the non-resident parking slots.

What are the different beach requirements?

The ocean side beaches in Eastham are operated by the National Seashore. The National Seashore side beach stickers are available at no cost to Eastham residents. The bayside beaches are managed by the town and beach stickers for these beaches require a fee for residents. Both beach stickers can be acquired at the town's beach sticker office.

Why is parking at a premium?

Erosion swept away parking over time and competition for beach parking has grown. The beaches are always popular and parking can fill up quickly in the summer, with general demand far exceeding supply. However only Eastham residents can park in the designated Eastham parking slots as part of a long-term agreement between the Town and the Seashore.

How will the new stickers help?

When the beach parking lots are full, people must be turned away at the lot. This puts Seashore employees in an uncomfortable position, with often unhappy potential beach-goers arguing for their right to park, explained Superintendent Flynn. The new stickers support the decades-long agreement between Eastham and the Seashore, but also make it clear to staff that this is a resident vehicle with a right to parks in the resident section of the parking lot.