Nauset Beach Live Cam

Situated on the outer edge of Cape Cod in Orleans



History

Nauset Beach is a popular and historically significant beach located in Orleans, Massachusetts, on Cape Cod. Its history is intertwined with the region's maritime past and the coastal evolution of Cape Cod.

Native American Presence: Before European settlers arrived, the area was inhabited by the Native American Nauset tribe, a subgroup of the larger Wampanoag Nation. They were skilled fishermen and relied on the rich resources of the sea for sustenance.

Early European Exploration: The first European explorers and settlers arrived in the 1600s. The Cape Cod region was named by Bartholomew Gosnold in 1602, and English settlers began to establish small fishing communities in the area.

Maritime Activities: As the centuries passed, Nauset Beach became a hub for maritime activities, including fishing, whaling, and trading. The surrounding waters of Cape Cod provided abundant opportunities for these industries to thrive.

Lifesaving Stations: With the increased maritime activity came the need for better safety measures. Lifesaving stations were established along the coast to rescue shipwrecked sailors. The Orleans Lifesaving Station, known as Station #40, was built in 1872 and played a crucial role in saving countless lives.