Small songbirds like the Snow Bunting gather here in small flocks to forage on the beach, alongside Sanderlings and other Sandpipers. Herring and Great Black-backed Gulls loaf on the shore, and deer browse through the tall dunes and often come on the beach. Throughout the year the Northern Harrier can be spotted cruising low over the dune in search of rodents or birds to prey upon. Spring and summer bring nesting Piping Plovers and a variety of tern species, most notably the endangered Least and Common tern. The fall season brings an influx of migratory bird species like the Peregrine Falcon and its smaller relatives, the Merlin and American Kestrel.

Surfside is one of the most popular beaches on Nantucket. Surfside is the ideal spot for swimmers, surfers, anglers, and people who just like to lay out in the sun. While it experiences heavy crowds, the beach is wide and flat and there is plenty of room for everyone. There are lifeguards on this beach during the summer, and seasonal restrooms are available. To the left of the beach entrance, there is a small concession stand offering hot food, and soft drinks, and a seating area nearby. There are changing rooms with showers to wash away the sand before you go home. This beach is extremely popular and is often very busy.