East Beach is an ocean beach in New Bedford, Massachusetts.
What to expect
Swimming
Water not monitored by DPH
Hours
Open dawn to dusk. Staffed lots and lifeguard supervision run 8am-8pm through Labor Day; swim at your own risk after Labor Day and outside those hours.
Season
Park and shoreline accessible year-round; lifeguards and staffed parking lots run from the last weekend in June through Labor Day.
Accessibility
Not ADA accessible.
Lifeguard
On duty last weekend of June through Labor Day.
Off duty · back JuneDogs
Dogs not allowed on the beach.
Managed by
New Bedford Parks, Recreation & Beaches Department
(508) 961-3015 · WebsiteGetting in
Access points along this beach
What's here
Facilities
Restrooms
At the beach, seasonal
Tides & weather
Tide and sun: NOAA astronomy · forecast: NWS, up to 7 days
Common questions
Is East Beach in New Bedford open today?
open to the public; water quality here is not monitored by MA DPH (updated 2026-09-13). MA DPH is the authority. Check the status the morning you go.
Is East Beach safe to swim at right now?
The city's health department samples East Beach water weekly (Wednesdays, posted Fridays) from June through September, and posts a no-swim advisory if bacteria levels run high after heavy rain. Check the current status before heading over rather than assuming it is open.
Do I need a pass to park at East Beach?
In season you either pay $3/hr or $15/day at the lot, or buy a seasonal pass that also covers West Beach and Fort Taber. Outside the late-June-to-Labor-Day fee period, parking is free.
Are there restrooms at East Beach?
Public restrooms are listed near the beach. Seasonal hours are common, so they may be closed off-season.
What rules should I know at East Beach?
Swim at your own risk when lifeguards are off duty (outside 8am-8pm in season, or any time after Labor Day). No dogs on the beach.
Are dogs allowed at East Beach?
Dogs not allowed on the beach.
Is there an entry fee at East Beach?
No, entry is free.