Castle Rock is an ocean beach in Marblehead, Massachusetts.
What to expect
Swimming
Water not monitored by DPH
Dogs
Marblehead by-law bars dogs from any public beach, athletic area, playground or park between May 1 and October 1, and from public cemeteries year-round. Castle Rock is not on the exemption list, so dogs are barred there for the season.
Fishing
Allowed year-round
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round
Managed by
Marblehead Recreation & Parks Department
781-631-3350 · WebsiteGetting in
Access points along this beach
Ocean Avenue path and steps
leads to the summit and down to the small beach
What's here
Not here
No drinking water
no fountain on site
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Common questions
Is Castle Rock in Marblehead open today?
open to the public; water quality here is not monitored by MA DPH (updated 2026-11-06). MA DPH is the authority. Check the status the morning you go.
Is there a real beach here?
A small patch of sand sits beside the rock along with deep tide pools, but with no lifeguard and rough footing it suits wading and exploring more than a long swim.
Free on-street parking lines Ocean Avenue with a posted two-hour limit; overflow visitors often park near Devereux Beach and walk over.
What rules should I know at Castle Rock?
Unguarded ledge with a cliff edge; footing is uneven and slick near the tide pools. No open fires.
Can you swim at Castle Rock?
Castle Rock is town-owned and its water is not monitored by MA DPH, so there is no official swim status. Check conditions posted at the beach.
Are dogs allowed at Castle Rock?
Marblehead by-law bars dogs from any public beach, athletic area, playground or park between May 1 and October 1, and from public cemeteries year-round. Castle Rock is not on the exemption list, so dogs are barred there for the season.
Is there an entry fee at Castle Rock?
No, entry is free.