A small, sandy town beach tucked into a residential street-end on Priests Cove, across the water from the much busier Fort Phoenix. Large rocks break up the sand and there is no lifeguard or facilities, just a quiet neighborhood shoreline with clear, sheltered water.
What to expect
Swimming
Allowed water tested by the state
Season
Open access year-round, no gate
Accessibility
Not ADA accessible
Managed by
Board of Public Works, Parks and Grounds Division
(508) 979-4031 · WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Free lot
CostFree
Roadside area off Manhattan Ave.
Roadside area off Manhattan Ave.
CostFreeSpacesSmall, unpaved
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Common questions
Is Pope Beach in Fairhaven 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.
Is Pope Beach good for young kids?
It is a calm, sheltered cove with no lifeguard, so it suits confident young swimmers with an attentive adult rather than a supervised toddler beach.
Is there parking at Pope Beach, and what does it cost?
Free lot (Free). Roadside area off Manhattan Ave.
What rules should I know at Pope Beach?
No lifeguard on duty.
Can you swim at Pope Beach?
Yes. Pope Beach has no swimming advisory in the latest MA DPH posting (updated 2026-09-13). Check again the morning you go.
Are dogs allowed at Pope Beach?
Permitted
Is there an entry fee at Pope Beach?
No, entry is free.