A DCR-run point of land at the mouth of New Bedford Harbor built around the ruins of a Revolutionary War fort, with a half-mile sandy beach, fort ramparts to climb, and open water views toward Buzzards Bay. The sand narrows near the fort wall and gets rockier close to the hurricane barrier.
What to expect
Swimming
Water not monitored off-season
Season
Open year-round, no seasonal gate closure found
Accessibility
Beach access mats and a floating beach wheelchair are available; accessible restrooms reported nearby
Dogs
Allowed in the park grounds on leash; not permitted on the beach itself
Fishing
Allowed year-round
Managed by
DCR Southeast Region
(508) 992-4524 · WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Free lot
CostFree
Fort Phoenix lots (3)
Fort Phoenix lots (3)
CostFreeSpacesMedium/large, exact count unconfirmed
Access points along this beach
Fort grounds / hurricane barrier walkway
Historic fort ramparts and a walkway along the hurricane barrier
What's here
Facilities
Restrooms
Near beach/fort area
Showers
Outdoor showers, seasonal
Worth knowing
- Site of the first naval battle of the Revolutionary War and later a Civil War-era fort; tennis and basketball courts and a playground sit within the grounds.
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Common questions
Is Fort Phoenix Beach in Fairhaven open today?
Fort Phoenix 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.
Is there parking at Fort Phoenix Beach, and what does it cost?
Free lot (Free). Fort Phoenix lots (3)
Are there restrooms at Fort Phoenix Beach?
Public restrooms are listed near the beach. Seasonal hours are common, so they may be closed off-season.
What rules should I know at Fort Phoenix Beach?
Swim only where and when lifeguards are on duty; open harbor-mouth currents nearby.
Can you swim at Fort Phoenix Beach?
There is no MA DPH swim status for Fort Phoenix 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.
Are dogs allowed at Fort Phoenix Beach?
Allowed in the park grounds on leash; not permitted on the beach itself
Is there an entry fee at Fort Phoenix Beach?
No, entry is free.