Sampsons Island Wildlife Sanctuary

Sandy beach at Sampsons Island Wildlife Sanctuary

Sampsons Island is part of the undeveloped Sampsons Island/Dead Neck barrier beach system located just off the Cape Cod mainland. Piping plovers, least terns, and common terns routinely nest on the island’s beaches, tidal flats, and salt marsh, earning it an Important Bird Area designation. In spring and summer, access to the island is limited the Cotuit Bay side beach. Other island beaches are closed to boats and pedestrians to protect nesting areas.

Location: Barnstable, MA
Hours: The island is managed as a bird sanctuary; access is limited to the Cotuit Bay beach March through September, dawn to dusk.

More information & directions >

Coastal Waterbird Program

Mass Audubon's Coastal Waterbird Program is one of the most effective entities working to protect coastal birds and barrier beaches in North America. The Coastal Waterbird Program’s primary objective is to protect nesting and foraging areas throughout the state. Learn More