Rob Crosley is irritated when three people set up their chairs and umbrellas on what he considers his private beach. His irritation turns to concern when the three go for a swim and never return to collect their gear. He reports the disappearance to the police, which makes him part of the story. A waterproof camera washes up on the shore, containing not only images of the swimmers but of Rob's wife, Katie. Did the swimmers drown? How is Katei involved?

A search for answers involves good and bad cops, a reporter who tends toward hyperbole, intrusive cameramen, a drug smuggler, Rob's son who is training for the Olympics, and a local group who believe a woman who drowned 400 years ago is still alive and well on Cape Cod.