Living in Westport, MA: Neighborhood Guide

Welcome to Westport

Reaching into the Westport River and dividing it into the West and East Branches, Westport Point extends south from the center of town. Meander down Main Road to arrive at the port that was the heart of the town’s economy for more than one hundred years. Settled as farms in the early 1700’s, the Point is still home to stone walls that once delineated these original settlements. Fishing and whaling soon surpassed agriculture, and buildings like the Paquachuck Inn were constructed to accommodate the growth. Today, the commercial bustle of the past has been replaced by some of the best local farm- and sea-to-table options. Notably, Westport Sea Farms has been raising oysters in the Westport River since 2009, and offers al fresco dining on the docks that echoes the relaxed spirit of this area.

ACOAXET

Just west of the point where the Westport River meets the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll find the village of Acoaxet. As with much of the coastline in southeastern Massachusetts, this area was primarily used for cattle grazing and fishing, until the Industrial Revolution led to its discovery and reinvention as a summer retreat for factory owners from nearby Fall River and New Bedford. The resulting turn-of-the-century cottage style architecture has had a lasting impact on even new construction in the area. Weathered cedar shingles, Adirondack chairs, and a decidedly laid-back vibe permeate all once you’re past the fork in the road in Adamsville (and we kid you not – it is an actual fork). Enjoy golf, tennis, or pickleball at the Acoaxet Club and soak up the sun and ocean at one of the nearby beautiful beaches, this is old New England summering at its finest

WESTPORT POINT

CHERRY & WEBB BEACH

On the shore opposite Acoaxet Village, the Town of Westport’s Cherry & Webb Beach provides a sandy point favored by shore birds and humans alike. Parking is by town resident pass only, and there’s a long walk through the dunes before reaching the shore, making it a much quieter destination than neighboring Horseneck Beach State Reservation, which is among the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ most popular beaches. Enjoy sand and surf on the Buzzards Bay-facing side of this point, or walk around to the river side to watch hermit and horseshoe crabs scuttle about. Access to this area is truly one of the best privileges of homeownership in Westport.