Best of Boston

Seven miles of white sand edged with rolling dunes make this our favorite spot to plop down a beach chair, catch some rays, and read a trashy romance novel—all thanks to a 1945 bequest from the estate of Chicago bazillionaire Richard Crane of plumping and fire hydrant fame. Parking fees are steep ($15 to $20), but a $40 yearly membership gets you a discount and helps the Trustees of Reservations with an aggressive wildfire management program. It also helps keep the shore free of debris and the bath houses clean.