A small rocky cove tucked beneath the ramparts of Fort Sewall in Old Town, with tide pools that outshine the swimming. Lovis Cove sits just around the corner and carries the local nickname Screeching Woman's Beach.
What to expect
Swimming
Water not monitored by DPH
Accessibility
Not step-free; rocky cove reached on foot through Old Town streets
Dogs
Dogs are banned from beaches, playgrounds, and most parks from May 1 through October 1, with leashed exceptions at select parks.
Allowed now · ban starts May 1Managed by
Marblehead Recreation & Parks Department
781-631-3350 · WebsiteGetting in
Access points along this beach
Lovis Cove
adjacent pocket beach opposite Selman Street, also called Screeching Woman's Beach
Worth knowing
- Lovis Cove's nickname, Screeching Woman's Beach, comes from local folklore about a pirate crew that landed there in the 17th century.
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Common questions
Is Fort Beach 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.
There is no lot; parking is on-street around Front Street and the surrounding Old Town blocks, and resident-sticker enforcement is strict in summer.
What rules should I know at Fort Beach?
No open fires.
Can you swim at Fort Beach?
Fort Beach 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 Fort Beach?
Dogs are banned from beaches, playgrounds, and most parks from May 1 through October 1, with leashed exceptions at select parks.
Is there an entry fee at Fort Beach?
No, entry is free.