Manchester (also known as Manchester by the Sea due to the proximity of several other nearby communities of the same name) is a small community located on Cape Ann on the North Shore. It was first settled by European settlers in 1629, making it older than the city of Boston.

Manchester by the Sea thrived as a small fishing community for well over 200 years until the mid 19th century when the town became an extremely popular summer home destination for the New England elite. Many of these historic homes remain to this day.

In 2011 Boston Magazine ranked Manchester Essex public schools #6 in the state out of 135 communities. Smith’s Point is one of the town’s most desirable neighborhoods. Manchester is home to Singing Beach, named for the sound of your feet in the sand. It is also home to a thriving lobster fishing community, a renowned yachting harbor and several beaches along its rocky shore.

Explore Manchester by the Sea, Massachusetts

• Official Manchester by the Sea Town Website

• Manchester Sailing Association

• The Open Door – Feeding People, Saving Lives

• Cape Ann Skating Club

• Manchester-Essex Youth Soccer

• Manchester Summerstage

• Manchester by the Sea Mother’s Club

• The Hooper Fund

• Manchester Historical Museum

Featured Manchester By the Sea Real Estate