Massachusetts is a state full of natural beauty. Because it's a coastal state, there are many reservoirs, rivers and bays, and there are myriad recreational activities like boating, fishing and swimming for those who love to be around the water. These are some of the major bodies of water in Massachusetts.

Atlantic Ocean

Massachusetts borders one of the largest bodies of water on earth, the Atlantic Ocean. The Atlantic is the second-largest of the world's five oceans. It is nearly 6.5 times the size of the United States, according to the 2010 CIA World Factbook. Because the state borders this massive body of water, it is home to many popular beaches and bays.

Cape Cod Bay

The Cape Cod Bay, named in 1602 by Bartholomew Gosnold for its plenitude of cod fish, is a large bay of the Atlantic Ocean. The bay is bordered by popular Cape Cod to the south and Plymouth County, Massachusetts, to the west. It measures 604 square miles and is a great location for vacationing and tourism. Cape Cod offers fishing, boating, hiking and, of course, seafood.

Quabbin Reservoir

Quabbin Reservoir in Belchertown is one of the largest man-made water supplies in the country. The reservoir was created in the 1930s and covers 39 square miles. The water that makes up the massive reservoir comes from the Swift River and the Ware River, according to the website. Permitted recreational activities include shoreline fishing, hiking, bicycling and some hunting. Because the reservoir is used for drinking water, swimming and other direct contact with the water are not allowed.

Assawompset Pond

Assawompset Pond is in Plymouth County and is the largest natural lake in Massachusetts. The lake shares water with another called Long Pond and is connected to Pocksha Pond. The three bodies of water provide drinking water to residents of New Bedford. Assawompset Pond is nearly 4 square miles and is a popular site for herring fishing.

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