Clay Head Beach

Clay Head Beach

This beach is just north of Mansion Beach. It is more of an adventure beach than a swimming beach. At the head of the trail to the beach there is a Nature Conservancy kiosk with maps and warnings about ticks. Only walkers are allowed on the trail which is about a quarter-mile long. It is an easy walk which kids can either love or turn into a brutal Trail of Tears depending on their mood. The beach is striking with high bluffs, rocky sections, sandy sections and great surf. Bank sparrows nest in little caves running along the top of the bluffs.

Toward the end of the trail to the beach a couple of other trails branch off to the left. Do not, I repeat Do Not, go down these trails with children. You will enter a network of trails that travel along the top of the bluffs known as The Maze. The views from the trail are astounding and it is well worth the trip for adults who want to lose themselves but believe me you do not want to get lost in there with young children.
Getting There: To reach the Clay Head continue north on Corn Neck Road past the entrance to the transfer station which will be on your left. The entrance to Clay Head is marked by a gray post with the words Clay Head Trail running down it vertically. It is a short, bumpy drive in to the parking lot. There is also a bike rack. The Nature Conservancy kiosk marks the head of the trail to the beach.