Crane Beach is a four-mile barrier beach on the Crane Estate, backed by dunes, and it's the developed, fee-gated counterpart to Ipswich's smaller town beaches. The Trustees of Reservations run it with a bathhouse, lifeguards in summer, and a timed-pass system on busy days.
What to expect
Swimming
Allowed water tested by the state
Hours
8am to sunset daily; entry gate closes 20 minutes before sunset.
Accessible
Wheelchair access noted
Dogs
Dogs prohibited April 1-September 30. Allowed October 1-March 31, leashed at all times; free for member dogs, $5/dog for non-members. Not allowed on Steep Hill Beach, trails, or dunes.
Managed by
The Trustees of Reservations
978-356-4354 · WebsiteGetting in
Parking
Parking not sourced yet
Check the town's beach pages before you go.
Access points along this beach
Main gate off Argilla Road
What's here
Facilities
Restrooms
Main bathhouse near lot
Common questions
Is Cranes in Ipswich open today?
Open, no advisory on record in the latest MA DPH posting (updated 2026-07-16). MA DPH is the authority. Check the status the morning you go.
Yes, 9am-5pm daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, weather permitting.
Are there restrooms at Cranes?
Public restrooms are listed near the beach. Seasonal hours are common, so they may be closed off-season.
What rules should I know at Cranes?
Dogs banned April 1-September 30.
Been here? Help keep it current.
Prices, hours, and facilities change. A quick note keeps the next visitor from guessing.