When submitting eBird observations at Norton Point, it is most helpful to start a new checklist for each hotspot in the area. Use the general hotspot when you have a checklist that includes multiple locations or if no other hotspot or personal location is appropriate for your sightings.

Norton Point Beach supports a diverse assemblage of nesting birds, including the federally threatened Piping Plover, the State Species of Special Concern least tern, and the American Oystercatcher.  Their nesting success varies from year to year.
 
The tidal flats on the bay side of Norton Point Beach are one of the best places on the island to go looking for migrating shorebirds.  While a spotting scope is helpful, almost any binoculars will be good enough since we can normally get quite close to these birds.

This stretch of sand and dunes links Martha’s Vineyard and Chappaquiddick offers important habitats for nesting shorebirds and provides a sporting challenge for anglers.

With a dynamic environment providing important habitat for nesting shorebirds as well as a sporting challenge for surf casters, Norton Point Beach is a blend of raw beauty and sun-drenched recreation.  Visitors enjoy shellfishing, swimming, bird watching, and picnicking in the summer. In the autumn, migrating shorebirds use the extensive Katama Bay sandflats for feeding and resting. During the winter, our winter bird residents such as snowy owls, mergansers, and bufflehead ducks often frequent the beach and adjacent waters.

Four and a half miles of walking trails and sandy roads tread across the uplands. Due to recent beach erosion, there are only 1.8 miles of oversand vehicle trails. (OSV access to and from Chappaquiddick depends on trail closures that are mandated to protect endangered, protected shorebirds and ambient weather conditions that impact trail conditions.) South Beach, the state-owned bathing beach with lifeguards seasonal restrooms, and changing areas, is right next door. Watch for rip currents and take caution while swimming.