A deep rocky cove on the Gloucester-Rockport line in Lanesville, landed at since 1902 and now better known for shore diving than swimming. A granite drop-off just past the mouth, the "great wall," draws divers from across New England.
What to expect
Swimming
Water not monitored by DPH
Hours
Good Harbor, Wingaersheek, and Stage Fort Park lot gates open 8am and lock at 9pm in season (lots open April 1, closed November through March); lifeguards are on 9am to 5pm Memorial Day through Labor Day. Posted hours at the entrance win…
Season
Open year-round, no gate.
Accessibility
Not accessible; rocky path and shoreline, not step-free.
Dogs
Dogs are banned from Gloucester beaches in season, roughly May 1 (April 1 at Good Harbor) through September 30; off-season rules differ by beach, with off-leash days at some, so check the city's Dog Regulations for your beach. That's the…
Scuba Diving
Allowed year-round, best in calm conditions
Managed by
City of Gloucester Harbormaster
978-726-0155 · WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Free lot
CostFreeStickerResident-only at the small marked lot
Folly Cove dirt pull-off
Details unconfirmed
Folly Cove dirt pull-off
CostFreeSpacesa few cars
Route 127 roadside (past Lobster Pool restaurant)
CostFree
Access points along this beach
Getting to the beach
Short rocky path from a small dirt pull-off near the Route 127/Gott Avenue intersection.
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Common questions
Is Folly Cove in Gloucester open today?
open to the public; water quality here is not monitored by MA DPH (updated 2026-08-14). MA DPH is the authority. Check the status the morning you go.
Is Folly Cove a swimming beach?
Not really - it's known mainly as a shore-diving site because of a dramatic granite drop-off just offshore; the rocky entry and lack of a lifeguard make it a better fit for divers than casual swimmers.
Is there parking at Folly Cove, and what does it cost?
Free lot (Free). Folly Cove dirt pull-off
What rules should I know at Folly Cove?
Rocky entry with a steep underwater drop-off close to shore; not a beginner swim spot and unguarded.
Are dogs allowed at Folly Cove?
Dogs are banned from Gloucester beaches in season, roughly May 1 (April 1 at Good Harbor) through September 30; off-season rules differ by beach, with off-leash days at some, so check the city's Dog Regulations for your beach. That's the town-wide default; watch for posted signs here.
Is there an entry fee at Folly Cove?
No, entry is free.