A sheltered lagoon enclosed by the half-mile granite Pleasure Bay Causeway off Castle Island, calmer than the open-harbor beaches nearby because the causeway breaks the swell. Popular with families for that reason, and rated among the cleanest beaches in the harbor.
What to expect
Swimming
Water not monitored off-season
Season
Year-round, dawn to dusk; lifeguarded Memorial Day-Labor Day, 10am-6pm
Managed by
Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), South Region
WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Free lot
CostFree
Pleasure Bay free lot
Pleasure Bay free lot
CostFree
Free public lot at Pleasure Bay, part of the Castle Island/Day Boulevard lot system
Access points along this beach
Pleasure Bay Causeway
Half-mile granite-walled causeway enclosing the swimming lagoon
What's here
Facilities
Picnic area
Benches, picnic tables, ball fields and a playground nearby
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Common questions
Is Pleasure Bay Beach in Boston open today?
Pleasure Bay Beach is not monitored right now. MA DPH samples beach water Memorial Day to Labor Day and posts no advisories or all-clears off-season, so there is no swim status to report. Swimming off-season is at your own risk.
Why is Pleasure Bay calmer than nearby beaches?
A half-mile granite causeway wraps around the bay and breaks up the open-harbor swell, creating a sheltered lagoon.
Is there parking at Pleasure Bay Beach, and what does it cost?
Free lot (Free). Pleasure Bay free lot
What rules should I know at Pleasure Bay Beach?
Dogs are prohibited on DCR coastal beaches May 1 through September 15 unless otherwise posted.
Can you swim at Pleasure Bay Beach?
There is no MA DPH swim status for Pleasure Bay Beach off-season: the state samples beach water Memorial Day to Labor Day. Swimming off-season is at your own risk; check conditions posted at the beach.
Is there an entry fee at Pleasure Bay Beach?
No, entry is free.