It all depends on the look you are going for! If you want bright sun and kids playing then anytime between 9-5 will work. If you want sunset photos you need to get them done at least 1.5 hours before sunset for the soft golden hour. If the day is overcast you'd have to reschedule. While an overcast sky can be an asset to photographers in some situations, having no dynamic lighting gives you nothing to work with. I personally like when the sun is out because you can backlight people, sidelight and you can always duck into the shade if you really need better control over the light.
When looking to shoot at the beach in Massachusetts, always check the wind forecast and the tide!
Location: Gloucester Massachusetts.
Reading Photographer Headshots-Portraits-Kids-Families, Senior Portraits 40 Marla Lane, Reading MA 01867 781-315-6030 - aw@cordelephotography.com