The remote South Beach , off Morris Island Road just beyond the Chatham Light, and also on the Atlantic, provides solitude without requiring a boat. It has no parking lot, so you'll have to walk or bike there. The most desolate stretches take quite a hike, but the quiet and grandeur cannot be beat. Schoolhouse Pond , situated on Schoolhouse Road in West Chatham, is also worth a visit for its tranquility, but note that parking is limited to Chatham residents. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas, too.
Parking is limited, and the lot fills up fast.
At low tide, people flock here for the chance to walk a mile or so through the beach grass and onto the flats. At high tide, it's great for frolicking in the calm water. If you don't want to swim but just want to get your feet wet, stop at the little beach at Rock Harbor , another great place for sunsets. One secret gem is the tiny beach that is reachable by walking down the trail at Paw Wah Point Conservation Area, off Namequoit Road. You'll even find a few picnic tables scattered here and there.