Boston's largest DCR saltwater beach, a long sandy stretch on Day Boulevard facing Old Harbor with volleyball courts, wide lawns and a straight skyline view back toward downtown. It's the default summer beach for South Boston, busy but with more room to spread out than the smaller coves nearby.
What to expect
Swimming
Allowed water tested by the state
Season
Year-round, dawn to dusk; lifeguarded Memorial Day-Labor Day
Managed by
Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), South Region
WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Paid lot
Costpaid
Metered street parking along the beach
Metered street parking along the beach
Costpaid
DCR posts metered street parking along the beach on Day Boulevard.
Moakley Park lots (Saunders Stadium / roller hockey rink)
CostFreeSpaceslimited
Nearby overflow option when Carson Beach lots are full
Access points along this beach
Edward J. McCormack Bath House
Restrooms, beach wheelchair and beach mat available on request
What's here
Facilities
Edward J. McCormack Bath House
seasonal
Edward J. McCormack Bath House
Drinking water
Available at McCormack Bath House
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Common questions
Is Carson Beach in Boston open today?
Open, no advisory on record in the latest MA DPH posting (updated 2026-09-13). MA DPH is the authority. Check the status the morning you go.
Where do I park at Carson Beach?
Small free DCR lots line William J. Day Boulevard; they fill up by mid-morning on summer weekends, with Moakley Park's lots as a nearby backup.
What rules should I know at Carson Beach?
Dogs are prohibited on DCR coastal beaches May 1 through September 15 unless otherwise posted.
Can you swim at Carson Beach?
Yes. Carson Beach has no swimming advisory in the latest MA DPH posting (updated 2026-09-13). Check again the morning you go.
Is there an entry fee at Carson Beach?
No, entry is free.